What's the best first car to buy that's also fun?

I'm looking to buy my first fun car as a 24 year old graduate with a budget of £5-6k. I'm looking for a petrol, manual, hatchback ideally but an estate body is not an issue. I'd like space in the back for a suitcase and pedal bicycle. I've had a Ford Fiesta 1.0 Ecoboost and that's fun but not pokey enough! I was thinking of a circa 2010 MINI Cooper S but worried about the reliability. I'm an engineering graduate so mechanically minded but can't really afford plenty of big bills for a couple of years!

Asked on 10 February 2023 by Alex Fulton

Answered by Dan Powell

When buying a used car, it's important to note that the vehicle's repair and servicing costs will always reflect the car's price when new (and not today at £6000 or £5000).

If you want to avoid hefty bills, avoid premium cars (these are very expensive to fix and maintain). I would recommend the Suzuki Swift Sport - it's very reliable, cheap to run and great fun to drive: www.honestjohn.co.uk/suzuki/swift/2010/

Tags: buying fun cars first cars

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