Should I buy an older car for cheaper VED?

I am looking to buy a used Peugeot 2008 petrol auto 1.2 engine. My online research has shown that prior to 2017 the VED payable is £20 but after that date is £155. Looking at the CO2 emissions it seems the older cars emitted less which seems at odds with progressive engine design which usually dictates that engines are more efficient. Do these figures suggest that the later engines are less efficient or are the newer engines quicker (from 0-62)? I would be much happier paying £20 per annum than the larger amount and at my age (80+). The age of the car is not as important as a low mileage, well-looked after model.

Asked on 15 February 2022 by Brian Robinson

Answered by Russell Campbell

It's not that the older car emitted less CO2, it's that the testing regime was changed, it got tougher and cars scored more poorly in it. At around about the same time, the taxing regime also changed so that cars that previously cost little to tax started costing a lot more.

I'd agree with you, condition, mileage and how are car has been maintained is more important than the age, I would get an older version in good condition that won't pay the vastly inflated tax.

Tags: buying a used car ved ved rates

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