Buying a first car for £800 - what do you recommend?

I’m searching for my first car; I am 18 years old and have around £800 to spend. I’ve narrowed down my search to two cars that fit my needs and insurance groups, a 1998 Peugeot 306 or a 1999 Vauxhall Astra. Which would you buy?

Asked on 6 July 2013 by Andrew Ryan Gillanders

Answered by Honest John
Neither are great cars but the Astra is probably best for service and repair costs.
Similar questions
I've just passed my test and would like to buy a cheap, reliable, mid-size automatic (about the same size as a new design Vauxhall Corsa as it's what I passed in). As long as the automatic gearbox is known...
I am 30 years old and passed my driving test in December. I want to get on the road as cheaply as possible for the next 12 months. The car will only be used socially; mostly at weekends driving a few miles...
I would like to buy my grandson, who's coming up 17 years old, a small car to allow him to start work. I'd like it to be no older than five years, safe, very reliable, have reasonable running costs and...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer