Learning curve

I just read your bit about BSM's deal with FIAT to supply 14,000 Fiat 500s and Grande Puntos. I have been looking to buy an Astra diesel and was wondering if it might be a good idea to buy an ex BSM car. Now that there are so many of them coming on the market they should go for a good price, I guess. Or do you think it's not such a good idea to buy an ex-learner car? Do you know who sells those ex BSM cars?

Asked on 26 December 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

The identity of the car will be hidden. BSM is never on the V5. They used to use 'Engineering Education Trust', but probably something else now. Obviously a company name rather than an individual's name. The cars are probably on a prearranged buyback by Vauxhall. The FIATs certainly are. I predict that in 6 - 9 months time, ex-privately owned FIAT 500s will be at a different, higher, price level than ex-BSM cars with dubious clutches and marks where the He-Man dual controls have been taken out. This is completely different from ex-hire cars that have been nicely run-in by people who at least know how to drive.

Tags: buying hire cars ex-driving school cars small cars

Dear Honest John,

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

Similar questions

One learner owner

As you are the owner of a FIAT 500, what are your views on the effect on resale values of FIAT 500s in the future now that we are seeing flocks of them on the road with BSM emblazoned large across the...

Half distance

I am wondering if you could help guide me as to the best way to obtain a new car and what it should be. I have Ford Fiesta on a 58 plate that is a 1.25 model. I use this as a driving school car and despite...

Rental arithmetic

I recently decided to trade-in my 30,000 mile 2003 Ford Focus1.6 Ghia Auto for an 09 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Auto in Moondust Silver. But I was slightly surprised to find that its mileage since first registration...