What should I choose

Honest John Back Room » Motoring discussion
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 13:50
What should I choose - nick1975
My friend is thinking about downsizing from a Picasso to either a Renault Modus, Merc A class or C3.

I said the A class has bad reputation, but I dont know much about the others. Which engines/models are the ones to go for.

Also are there any other models he should consider.

thanks

Nick
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 16:37
What should I choose - Ed V
Money limit? Travelling priorities?
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 16:47
What should I choose - nick1975
Not sure on budget, say, £4-6k

Mostly short trips to/from work (5 miles)

Going down to the supermarket and the ocassional longer run to see friends/family.

Wants something compact as wife is learning to drive and the roads are quite tight in St Albans, but needs back seats as 2 small nippers in tow
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 16:50
What should I choose - boxsterboy
I would go for a C3.

Modus hasn't sold well, so can be bought cheap but may not be easy to sell on. An A-class of this price will be older and more prone to trouble. They are horrid to drive too (lwb better) but do have that badge that lures many people. C3 is better to drive than both and better value.
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 16:51
What should I choose - Mad Maxy
Nissan Note? Honda Jazz?
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 16:57
What should I choose - Xileno {P}
Er, not for that budget you won't...

My choice would be the Modus, you will get one for 6K, maybe a bit less. The fact it hasn't sold too well can be used to your advantage - drive a hard bargain. Resale value wouldn't be my top concern, at the price cars are worthless after a few years. Treat it as disposable. Modus getting good reliability feedback as well. A-Class is bought by people who only want the badge. C3 might be OK.
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 17:37
What should I choose - Bill Payer
You really don't want to go anywhere near an old A Class, especially if funds are at all limited. The potential repair bills are limited only by the cars value - a big problem and it could be a write off.

Have a look at the Car by Car Breakdown.

I'm currently trying to increase the popularity of Mitsubishi Colts! Have a look at one of those - seem good value and the dealers are keen to deal!
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Thu 1 Mar 2007 20:04
What should I choose - Edward
Sister-in-law and Wife's best friend each have a C3 (1.4 petrol - I think in SX trim) and are very happy with them. In both cases they are used mostly around town for ferrying a couple of children under 5. Boot is surprisingly deep - ideal for baby buggy / shopping.
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