Medium sized old cars

Am constrained by budget and looking to buy a medium size car about 10 years old to drive 6000 miles a year.

Hatchback petrol to seat 4 adults. Am thinking that a 1.6 Focus would fit the bill, but wonder if a 1.8 Mondeo would be a good option - would i notice much difference in running costs?

Are there any alternatives that I should consider? Appreciate that I am dipping into banger territory

Asked on 12 September 2011 by mickje

Answered by Honest John

Mondeo Mk III 1.8 and 2.0 petrol models are good value, but you need to remove the inlet manifold swirl flaps. Will be less fuel efficient than a Focus 1.6 which will do about 40mpg. See:

www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/ford/mondeo-iii-2000/

and

www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/ford/focus-1998/

Tags: buying old cars

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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