Need help picking a saloon, probably diesel - €15k budget

FrankGrimes

Timing belt went on my 03D Passat 1.8 turbo on the way down to Lahinch on Saturday night. Waiting on the full details but it looks like the engine is screwed and given the low value of the car, it might not be worth bothering to repair/replace it (belt had been done at 55k miles, only 90k miles on it now so it was a surprise).

I was hoping to put it off for another year before upgrading, but if I'm going to upgrade, I'll go for something decent that'll last me about 4 years before upgrading.

I really liked the Passat and had been thinking of getting a Skoda Superb as my very limited knowledge indicates it's pretty much similar to a Passat but you get more frills for your buck.

I was thinking of diesel for fuel efficiency but am open to thoughts on that - I generally do about 300km a week, or about 10,000 miles a year, is it worth getting a diesel for that amount of usage or not? I did find the Passat guzzled the fuel - e.g. a round-trip Dublin-Galway could use about €60-70 fuel or thereabouts. I only make such trips about 15 times a year though.

I have some requirements that might be relatively odd:

• Transmission: must be tiptronic (not sure if that's the right name but what I mean is automatic with the option to move it into manual gear selection mode - I used that mode 90% of the time on my Passat and loved the balance of control and no hassle.
• Seats: ideally heated leather - have a long-term lower back problem and the heated Passat seats really help.
• Radio: MP3 player connectivity. Ideally on-steering-wheel controls for safety.
• Wheels: preferably decent alloys though not essential.
• Air conditioning - ideally ability to set temperature (not just on/off).
• Power: might contradict the fuel efficiency comments above, but I'd still want something with a decent bit of poke.
• Spec: looks like based on the above I'm probably talking about top-end/sport models.
• Reliability: I work long hours so whenever I have car trouble it causes me real hassle to get out of work to get it sorted, so something that's not gonna be on first name terms with a mechanic is defo a preference!

From searching other threads on here it seems other cars often considered for this type of scenario are Avensis, Insignia, Mondeo, Octavia, Accord, Passat, and Superb. Saw some reliability concerns about the Insignia, Superb is a better fit than an Octavia, think I saw it mentioned that few Avensis models have tiptronic.

So that'd leave the Superb, Mondeo and Accord, or another Passat. What are the different models/specs of these that I should be looking at? I'm not well up on cars (could tell you plenty about carbon road bikes though ) so any pointers/suggestions are much appreciated.

R.O.R

I've driven one of these for quite a bit
http://www.carzone.ie/search/Ford/Mondeo/2Ltr-Dsl/201119202379067/advert?channel=CARS
and it would suit your needs. Very comfortable (with heated seats), quick enough, cheap enough to service, relatively decent on fuel and can be used as Tiptronic. We had one recently go to 200,000km - the only issues it ever had were all connected to the keyless entry / keyless start. Seemed to be an issue with most of the Titanium X models, but should be sorted on an 08.

Squirrel

I'd say 10K miles would be petrol territory. Is the cost of tax an issue for you? Or insurance?

Edit: Would a 5 series do? http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/523i-SE-/131124297147551/advert?channel=CARS

FrankGrimes

Thanks ROR, that does look like a very nice Mondeo and good spec. 80k miles/130k KM over 3 years seems like quite a lot of mileage, how much of a concern should that be? Do timing belts go on Mondeo's (think from searching the forum it's only the Avensis in this class that doesn't need them due to the type of engine it is).

Plug

FrankGrimes wrote: »

Thanks ROR, that does look like a very nice Mondeo and good spec. 80k miles/130k KM over 3 years seems like quite a lot of mileage, how much of a concern should that be? Do timing belts go on Mondeo's (think from searching the forum it's only the Avensis in this class that doesn't need them due to the type of engine it is).

The belts on these are due 200k km. Never seen one snap here. Nice car that one ROR linked to.

FrankGrimes

Squirrel wrote: »

I'd say 10K miles would be petrol territory. Is the cost of tax an issue for you? Or insurance?

Edit: Would a 5 series do? http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/523i-SE-/131124297147551/advert?channel=CARS

Thanks for that. I'm not well up on the factors that make someone decide between petrol and diesel. All I know is when I've asked in the past about resale value of my Passat, it being a 1.8T petrol seemed to indicate it'd be hard to shift. That said, I'm not really concerned about resale value - if I get 4 years out of it for €15k and maybe a couple of grand as trade-in at the end, I'm not worried. Likewise, I'd be fine with paying the tax if it was a nice car. It was just that I've often thought the petrol consumption on my Passat was excessive, but that's more a perception than having measured it accurately. So, I wouldn't necessarily rule petrol out, though would be good to know what the downsides of diesel are, is it mainly the performance being a little slower for poke to kick-in and noise?

A BMW hadn't crossed my mind mainly as I thought it (and the Audi A4, which I'd love) wouldn't be worth looking at as I have the perception that they're premium price and you get less bang for buck as you're paying a bit for their popularity. That may well be wrong (would be a pleasant surprise), but if it was a case of an 07 BMW or a 08 Mondeo/Superb with more frills for the same money, I'd go for the frills cos I do likes my gadgets!

Was also wondering if it'd be worth looking at bringing something in from the UK. I know there's a sticky on that so I'll go through it.

I'd be prepared to stretch the budget a couple of grand if it had a compelling reason like opening up a much better model/spec etc. but ideally it'd be close to €15k.

FrontDoor

FrankGrimes wrote: »

Thanks for that. I'm not well up on the factors that make someone decide between petrol and diesel. All I know is when I've asked in the past about resale value of my Passat, it being a 1.8T petrol seemed to indicate it'd be hard to shift. That said, I'm not really concerned about resale value - if I get 4 years out of it for €15k and maybe a couple of grand as trade-in at the end, I'm not worried. Likewise, I'd be fine with paying the tax if it was a nice car. It was just that I've often thought the petrol consumption on my Passat was excessive, but that's more a perception than having measured it accurately. So, I wouldn't necessarily rule petrol out, though would be good to know what the downsides of diesel are, is it mainly the performance being a little slower for poke to kick-in and noise?

A BMW hadn't crossed my mind mainly as I thought it (and the Audi A4, which I'd love) wouldn't be worth looking at as I have the perception that they're premium price and you get less bang for buck as you're paying a bit for their popularity. That may well be wrong (would be a pleasant surprise), but if it was a case of an 07 BMW or a 08 Mondeo/Superb with more frills for the same money, I'd go for the frills cos I do likes my gadgets!

Was also wondering if it'd be worth looking at bringing something in from the UK. I know there's a sticky on that so I'll go through it.

I'd be prepared to stretch the budget a couple of grand if it had a compelling reason like opening up a much better model/spec etc. but ideally it'd be close to €15k.

The tiptronic thing confuses the issue somewhat because most cars in Ireland are manual and your second hand selection is much smaller, in a year bracket (08-09), where very few cars were sold in the first place. Automatic cars are usually in a higher tax bracket, so can often be very pricey to import relative to the manual version.

A diesel will come into its own on a long trip in terms of fuel economy. Less so around town. Since the tax change in 2008, most cars sold are now diesel, particularly in the large saloon segment. The way the tax is set up, getting a diesel larger car is a no-brainer, no matter what miles you do. At the same time, there are deals to be had on 08 petrols and there is very little demand for them - something like a 2.0 Mondeo Ghia for instance.

I'd say think about the tiptronic and if you can do without it, go to the UK and bring in an 09 Zetec Mondeo or the like. Or push the boat out to an Accord.

FrankGrimes

FrontDoor wrote: »

The tiptronic thing confuses the issue somewhat because most cars in Ireland are manual and your second hand selection is much smaller, in a year bracket (08-09), where very few cars were sold in the first place. Automatic cars are usually in a higher tax bracket, so can often be very pricey to import relative to the manual version.

A diesel will come into its own on a long trip in terms of fuel economy. Less so around town. Since the tax change in 2008, most cars sold are now diesel, particularly in the large saloon segment. The way the tax is set up, getting a diesel larger car is a no-brainer, no matter what miles you do. At the same time, there are deals to be had on 08 petrols and there is very little demand for them - something like a 2.0 Mondeo Ghia for instance.

I'd say think about the tiptronic and if you can do without it, go to the UK and bring in an 09 Zetec Mondeo or the like. Or push the boat out to an Accord.

Thanks FrontDoor, very good point about the relatively small selection pool for 08-09. The tiptronic is the most important criteria of all for me, it's an absolute must. I'd rather pay a few grand to repair my old Passat than drive a manual ever again, really can't see why they're not more popular given what I see as a perfect balance between convenience and having ability to control gear selection.

Will have a look to see if Accords are much more expensive.

Squirrel

I'd agree with you on the gadgets.

The diesel will generally cost more to buy. This 520D costs €5K more than the 523i I linked to above, now the tax will be more on the petrol (€935 compared to €614).

Just picked that diesel as an example because it is an SE and similar-ish mileage but you see the point. I'd look for a Superb or even run a search on here and there should be other good options previously mentioned. The Mondeo posted above does look nice I must say though seeing the tow bar just makes me wonder about the life it has had.

166man

If I were you I would stick to petrol although a petrol auto will not return great fuel consumption. I have just found this which seems very nice..

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Audi/A4/1.8T-163/201130203573899/advert?channel=CARS

This is another option

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Volkswagen/Jetta/JETTA-CO/201129203448434/advert?channel=CARS


http://www.carzone.ie/search/Volkswagen/Jetta/JETTA-SP/201131203740293/advert?channel=CARS

Best of luck!

FrankGrimes

So just like it was mentioned above, it's turning out that there are relatively few 08s with tiptronic and the high-end spec I'm looking for in these models (at least on Carzone.ie, anywhere else loads of others are likely to be hiding?).

I'd prefer a Passat over a Jetta so have focused on that rather than the Jetta (mainly due to size - often have a lot of gear in the car for cycling trips).

Not seeing a whole lot of Superb's with the automatic, so something like this looking like one of the only one that fits what I'm after, though this 2009 looks good but is a big jump to €21k which I'd prefer not to do.

In a Mondeo, something like this is looking along the lines of what I'm after, though a bit over the ideal budget. How negotiable are most places these days (will be a cash purchase)? It's not clear to me if the automatic gearbox on that Mondeo or on automatic Mondeos in general is just a normal straigtforward automatic or if it has the tiptronic feature to manually select the gear.

This Honda Accord 2009 looks nice but there's not a whole range of options in terms of Accords.

This Passat - seems like the Highline would be the version of the Passat I'd go for for the extras.

Looks like it won't be a quick search given the specific criteria I have. Will look into the UK option a bit more as it might open up more options with the specs I'm after.

Am half thinking of going with a petrol given my mileage isn't huge, but on the other hand the prospect of petrol price rising further is on my mind but I guess it'd take a good few years for the fuel price difference to pay off the increased price of a diesel given my mileage (though there's also the tax difference to consider). Someone mentioned to me that diesel engines are more hassle free than petrols as they are stronger engines so break less - is that true? I could do with as little hassle out of the car as possible.

bazz26

FrankGrimes wrote: »

So just like it was mentioned above, it's turning out that there are relatively few 08s with tiptronic and the high-end spec I'm looking for in these models (at least on Carzone.ie, anywhere else loads of others are likely to be hiding?).

I'd prefer a Passat over a Jetta so have focused on that rather than the Jetta (mainly due to size - often have a lot of gear in the car for cycling trips).

Not seeing a whole lot of Superb's with the automatic, so something like this looking like one of the only one that fits what I'm after, though this 2009 looks good but is a big jump to €21k which I'd prefer not to do.

In a Mondeo, something like this is looking along the lines of what I'm after, though a bit over the ideal budget. How negotiable are most places these days (will be a cash purchase)? It's not clear to me if the automatic gearbox on that Mondeo or on automatic Mondeos in general is just a normal straigtforward automatic or if it has the tiptronic feature to manually select the gear.

This Honda Accord 2009 looks nice but there's not a whole range of options in terms of Accords.

This Passat - seems like the Highline would be the version of the Passat I'd go for for the extras.

Looks like it won't be a quick search given the specific criteria I have. Will look into the UK option a bit more as it might open up more options with the specs I'm after.

Am half thinking of going with a petrol given my mileage isn't huge, but on the other hand the prospect of petrol price rising further is on my mind but I guess it'd take a good few years for the fuel price difference to pay off the increased price of a diesel given my mileage (though there's also the tax difference to consider). Someone mentioned to me that diesel engines are more hassle free than petrols as they are stronger engines so break less - is that true? I could do with as little hassle out of the car as possible.

Modern diesels are quite the opposite. Short trips will cause them all sorts of problems as they are designed to be driven. Crazy paying a premium for a diesel car when you are not using it. BTW that Mondeo 2.0 diesel auto costs €630 to tax per year on the new tax system.

bf

You'll struggle to get a new model superb in budget unless its a high miler - the black petrol one you linked looks good but get it well checked out given location

Somethign like this meets your criteria if you could live with the mileage

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201128403133300/sort/priceasc/usedcars/maximum-age/up_to_3_years_old/transmission/automatic/model/superb/make/skoda/radius/1501/page/1/postcode/bs324nf?logcode=p

bf

Looking in the UK a Saab 9-3 or Volvo S80 would be my choice

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201131407649293/sort/priceasc/usedcars/transmission/automatic/seller-type/trade_adverts/price-from/8000/price-to/10000/fuel-type/diesel/maximum-age/up_to_3_years_old/maximum-mileage/up_to_60000_miles/body-type/saloon/radius/1501/page/7/postcode/bs324nf?logcode=p

or

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201133410193057/sort/priceasc/usedcars/transmission/automatic/seller-type/trade_adverts/price-from/8000/price-to/10000/fuel-type/diesel/maximum-age/up_to_3_years_old/maximum-mileage/up_to_60000_miles/body-type/saloon/radius/1501/page/1/postcode/bs324nf?logcode=p

FrankGrimes

Some good food for thought there, thanks for that. I do like the look of the 5-door Superb from the UK. It'd need to be a fine car to justify the hassle of going to the UK but I will look into the options. I'm prepared to stretch the budget a bit but don't want to push it much beyond €20k, though I may decide to rethink and stick closer to €15k.

This Insignia did catch my eye though at 2.7L petrol I'd say the petrol, tax and insurance bills would be shocking though it'd be good to know roughly by how much.

butrasgali

no shilling here.

butrasgali

butrasgali wrote: »

no shilling here.

Skoda is a safe bet- the rs diesel is a great motor

FrankGrimes

So unfortunately I need to refresh this thread as I'm kinda back to the drawing board. What I was looking for was a Skoda Superb 09, maybe 10, saloon and definitely automatic (must-have), and in the highest spec Elegance model, so I was aware it was always going to be scarce.

Have a contact in a Skoda dealership and they looked for a Superb matching what I'm looking for but after a few weeks couldn't find anything in Ireland and the option to bring in from the UK was coming out at €25k for an 09 - I can stretch to that amount if I felt it was good value, but the only 09 automatic Superb I'd come across in Ireland went for just under €19k. Even though that had 67k miles and was the mid-level Ambition model, €25k for an Elegance seemed too much. I can stretch to that amount if needed (but didn't want to spend more than €21-22k ideally) but it just didn't seem smart to go to €25k for that model....though to be honest I'm getting tempted due to this search dragging on.

So, I was thinking of going direct to the UK but with the hours and work travel I do, that's not an option. So I was thinking of something like www.autodirect.ie - I've posted on the thread about them here to see about their post-sales support (i.e. is the warranty good) - it'd need to be a big saving but if it was, I'd be happy to give it a whirl.

So if anyone has any tips on how to get my mitts on a decent-priced automatic Skoda Superb 09 or 10 automatic (ideally Elegance, though I'd defo consider Ambition), I'd be all ears!

So, other than that, I've asked my contact to start looking at VW Passats, again in automatic and ideally Highline but so far he's found a couple of options but generally he's finding good quality options relatively scarce.

I think I'd be fine with a Passat but part of me is now feeling I'd be settling for it as I'd really set my sights on the Superb - I found the drive lovely and the interior is proper luxury. Though at other times I cop myself on and say a Passat would be absolutely fine for me...so I'm caught in two minds. Need to resolve it soon enough as I'm using the OH's Fiesta at the moment and she's gonna need to take it back and I'm really tight on time so I'm getting reluctant to expand the search to another car but if there's something I should really be considering, I'd welcome any new ideas.

FrontDoor

Find one of these in the UK - 2.0 TDI CR Elegance DSG (170 BHP)

The co2 seems to be 157 - band D, rather 177 in the other 2.0 TDI.

Import tax is roasting you really. An automatic will cost several thousand more by the looks of it.

FrankGrimes

FrontDoor wrote: »

Find one of these in the UK - 2.0 TDI CR Elegance DSG (170 BHP)

The co2 seems to be 157 - band D, rather 177 in the other 2.0 TDI.

Import tax is roasting you really. An automatic will cost several thousand more by the looks of it.

Nice one. Yeh the tax is well hefty alright. Any idea what does the CR in that model name actually mean?

Quick look on VRT Calculator (estimating 35k miles, Jan 09) works out at:

ELEGANCE 170BHP DSG A = CO2 : 159, VRT 24 % = €5200
2.0 TDI CR ELEGANCE 170BHP 5DR. CO2@ 159. VRT 24% = €5620.

Found one on www.autoquake.co.uk here for just under £15k sterling which is €17,300 EUR. Add about €5500 for tax and it's at just under €23k so when you add in transport and hassle for importing and retail margin, the €24,900 quote I got from my Skoda contact for a similar model isn't all that far off, given I probably could've gotten that down to something like €24k-24.5k I'd guess and I'd have the confidence of being with a dealer I trust. So that quote wasn't too bad, but still is costly due to the VRT. Might rethink it though, if I got one for something like €23.5k, I'd go for it. On the other hand there's some 2011 Elegance automatics in Ireland for the low thirty grands...wonder if I hung on till the early new year would they be doable for just under €30k? If they were, stretching might seem like a decent option.

On the third hand, if he finds a decent high-spec Passat for ballpark €20k, it'd be probably smart to reluctantly give up on the Superb and go with it....ah decisions decisions...

FrontDoor

The problem is the automatic. Find an automatic diesel in a lower bracket - such as an A4 for instance. That comes in Cat C. Should be a grand or more cheaper to import and 09 ones are around 15k.

The CR stands for Common Rail. I am not sure why they VRT quotes are different. I presume they are for the same car.

bf

Those quotes for a 09 seem off the wall, but there is obviously demand. To put it in context I bought a new Superb Elegance this year for just over €26k straight (no scrappage) albeit its a manual

heate

I don't know if you've your heart set on a VAG product but it seems that near €25k for a used Skoda is madness.
You can buy a low mileage (>40k) 520d with Leather and Bluetooth from the UK with an auto for £15,000 (@.83 = €18,072 the vrt is €4,827- so something like €22899 plus shipping. That was from a Mercedes Main Dealer who will drop the car to Holyhead for you.
There are cheaper cars from 08 onwards which could be had for less money

FrankGrimes

bf wrote: »

Those quotes for a 09 seem off the wall, but there is obviously demand. To put it in context I bought a new Superb Elegance this year for just over €26k straight (no scrappage) albeit its a manual

Thanks for that, sounds like a very competitive new price, have sent you a PM to see if you can share details.

lomb

What about a Mercedes W211 from around 06, should clock in around 12-14 k, be very reliable, economical ,automatic, most would have leather and be very safe, stylish and comfortable. These cars are in a league well above Passats.
Alternatively a Saab 9-5 would meet your criteria also and be for peanuts as depreciation is crippling on new ones. They are said to have the most comfortable seats on any car available.

VolvoMan

lomb wrote: »

What about a Mercedes W211 from around 06, should clock in around 12-14 k, be very reliable, economical ,automatic, most would have leather and be very safe, stylish and comfortable.

No it won't.

lomb

VolvoMan wrote: »

No it won't.

Newer ones are fine. Mercedes fixed the faults that the earlier ones had and that were common.

FrankGrimes

lomb wrote: »

What about a Mercedes W211 from around 06, should clock in around 12-14 k, be very reliable, economical ,automatic, most would have leather and be very safe, stylish and comfortable. These cars are in a league well above Passats.
Alternatively a Saab 9-5 would meet your criteria also and be for peanuts as depreciation is crippling on new ones. They are said to have the most comfortable seats on any car available.

Hadn't thought about a Mercedes and had some probably ill-informed perception that Saabs were one to stay away from given depreciation and that they might be on the way out so repair costs could be high if parts/service becomes scarce. But as I'd plan on owning the car for about 4 years, I don't expect to get much for at it the other end so I shouldn't be too worried about eventual resale value so I might have a look.

To be honest though, if I could get a new Superb Skoda Elegance in automatic for near what bf paid (€26k), I'd be very tempted. I was quoted €36.5k list (€34k after discount) for a 2.0TDI 140bhp Elegance automatic (extra €1k for 170bhp). Manual was about €2.5-€3k cheaper.

I'm not familiar with the Mercedes W211, what model should I be searching on carzone.ie for to find it and are there different spec models to look out for? I think Mercedes automatics are standard park, drive, not the semi-automatic manual selection option on the DSG with Superbs or Passats, but I guess I could live with that if the car was to be a good option overall.

FrankGrimes

FrontDoor wrote: »

The tiptronic thing confuses the issue somewhat because most cars in Ireland are manual and your second hand selection is much smaller, in a year bracket (08-09), where very few cars were sold in the first place. Automatic cars are usually in a higher tax bracket, so can often be very pricey to import relative to the manual version.

A diesel will come into its own on a long trip in terms of fuel economy. Less so around town. Since the tax change in 2008, most cars sold are now diesel, particularly in the large saloon segment. The way the tax is set up, getting a diesel larger car is a no-brainer, no matter what miles you do. At the same time, there are deals to be had on 08 petrols and there is very little demand for them - something like a 2.0 Mondeo Ghia for instance.

I'd say think about the tiptronic and if you can do without it, go to the UK and bring in an 09 Zetec Mondeo or the like. Or push the boat out to an Accord.

Thanks FrontDoor. I hear ya that the tiptronic is both limiting my options and raising the cost but the more I drive a manual in the interim the more I'm convinced that it's an absolute must-have for me - I think it just makes driving so much more enjoyable and is the perfect balance between convenience and control (e.g. don't have to bother down gearing when coming to lights, but if you want control to kick it down a couple of gears instantly to accelerate fast, it's just a flick to do it).

Agree on the petrol thing though, certainly wouldn't rule out petrol options if there's a deal to be had but if going new would go for diesel.

lomb

Heres a roadtest of the W211. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/mercedes-benz/e-class-w211-2002/?section=road-test
The e270cdi would have a nice economy/performance balance.
The gearbox afaik is tiptronic but definately not a DSG style of box.

FrankGrimes

Thanks again lomb. Hard to not get interested with a roadtest review like that I know feck all about different car ranges and specs so sorry for the dumb questions, but am I basically looking at the full E-class range as potentially suitable options with the 270CDI being a potentially good fit? I did a search on Carzone for Mercs and keyword 270 but only got 7 hits and newest was 2006 with 103,000 miles from a private seller so I wouldn't be interested in that.

...have now done a quick web search and it does look like it's all E-class models that might be relevant, so need to figure out which one. From Carzone search (Model: e-class, transmission: automatic or semi-automatic, seller: dealers) it looks like E200 is the more popular one and the main spec models mentioned seems to be Avantgarde, and Elegance, with some mentioning Sport. Not sure what comes with each model, particularly which ones have heated seats, MP3 line in, and bluetooth or standard automatic vs. tiptronic, though some do call it out. Either way, seems to be plenty of interesting options in the 2008 neck of the woods, though would involve stretching the budget up to something around €22-€25k by the looks of it (might get an 09 in that range). So any tips on model specs and particular ones to go for are much appreciated.

This 2008 E200 with asking price of €23k is interesting - it being petrol might be keeping the price down, but if that was a runner at close to €22k, I'd possibly be interested.

Another similarly interesting petrol 08 E200 here for €25k.

Interesting 2.1 CDI here with what looks like good spec but price on application, might give a call to see what they're asking.

lomb

Heres a few reviews on the estate(same car though just more practical than the saloon)
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/driving/jeremy_clarkson/article824086.ece
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/carreviews/estatecars/2721410/Mercedes-rewrites-the-estate-rules.html

R.O.R

FrankGrimes wrote: »

Thanks again lomb. Hard to not get interested with a roadtest review like that I know feck all about different car ranges and specs so sorry for the dumb questions, but am I basically looking at the full E-class range as potentially suitable options with the 270CDI being a potentially good fit? I did a search on Carzone for Mercs and keyword 270 but only got 7 hits and newest was 2006 with 103,000 miles from a private seller so I wouldn't be interested in that.

...have now done a quick web search and it does look like it's all E-class models that might be relevant, so need to figure out which one. From Carzone search (Model: e-class, transmission: automatic or semi-automatic, seller: dealers) it looks like E200 is the more popular one and the main spec models mentioned seems to be Avantgarde, and Elegance, with some mentioning Sport. Not sure what comes with each model, particularly which ones have heated seats, MP3 line in, and bluetooth or standard automatic vs. tiptronic, though some do call it out. Either way, seems to be plenty of interesting options in the 2008 neck of the woods, though would involve stretching the budget up to something around €22-€25k by the looks of it (might get an 09 in that range). So any tips on model specs and particular ones to go for are much appreciated.

This 2008 E200 with asking price of €23k is interesting - it being petrol might be keeping the price down, but if that was a runner at close to €22k, I'd possibly be interested.

Another similarly interesting petrol 08 E200 here for €25k.

Interesting 2.1 CDI here with what looks like good spec but price on application, might give a call to see what they're asking.

If you are looking at the E200, take a look at this one http://www.carzone.ie/search/Mercedes-Benz/E-Class/E200-*OC/131540700692560/advert?channel=CARS

I drove that for a week a couple of months ago and it is running perfectly. Not much to look at with the 16" wheels, and the Grey interior (only tex leather, not the real thing) isn't to everybodies taste, but it is in great condition, has a full service history and I can confirm the mileage is correct.

Just to point out, I don't work for the dealership who has that car, I work for the company that owned it beforehand.

Lex Luthor

http://www.driving.ie/usedcars/index.cfm?fuseaction=car&carID=131472159978620

http://www.driving.ie/usedcars/index.cfm?fuseaction=car&carID=201125203036211

FrankGrimes

Thanks Lex, that's another good option to throw into the mix - seems like I'd be able to get higher spec on the S80 than a Merc for less money (obvious but true and I'm prioritising spec over brand name, so long as the car is reliable which shouldn't be a problem with a Volvo).

Am increasingly toying with the idea of going new so am in the process of getting quotes, so given I'm flip-flopping so much I'll stop posting for now to avoid wrecking peoples' heads.

One last thing though, does this 2011 ex-demo Superb not seem significantly over-priced at €35.5k? I get that it has loads of extras (they indicate it was €40k new) but isn't the problem with extras that you can't expect to get anywhere near their full value when selling second-hand? If I was able to get that car for around €30k, I'd probably go for it, but given I could probably get a brand new estate with Elegance spec in automatic for around €35k so it just seem to be a good value offering unless there's plenty of buffer in their asking price.

VolvoMan

I think this has the nearside of 200k miles on it, but it is seriously cheap: http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2156686

The only downside is 935 euro roadtax really.

EPM

VolvoMan wrote: »

The only downside is 935 euro roadtax really.

And the chance of a lot more parts being worn. While it's no doubt cheap, you need to go into purchasing that car with your eyes wide open.

166man

VolvoMan wrote: »

I think this has the nearside of 200k miles on it, but it is seriously cheap: http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2156686

The only downside is 935 euro roadtax really.

A full service history and that Volvo would probably do another 200k miles with just wear and tear items. Great engine in them.

VolvoMan

EPM wrote: »

And the chance of a lot more parts being worn. While it's no doubt cheap, you need to go into purchasing that car with your eyes wide open.

If it has a full service history, then it could be the other way around. The fact that it has high mileage means it is likely that all those parts that need to be replaced will already have been.

The only reason high mileage cars go for pittance here is because it is naieve little Ireland, where everyone thinks a car is past it at 100k.

Lex Luthor

VolvoMan wrote: »

If it has a full service history, then it could be the other way around. The fact that it has high mileage means it is likely that all those parts that need to be replaced will already have been.

The only reason high mileage cars go for pittance here is because it is naieve little Ireland, where everyone thinks a car is past it at 100k.

1 owner from new is another plus

EPM

VolvoMan wrote: »

If it has a full service history, then it could be the other way around. The fact that it has high mileage means it is likely that all those parts that need to be replaced will already have been.

The only reason high mileage cars go for pittance here is because it is naieve little Ireland, where everyone thinks a car is past it at 100k.

Full service history, while great and all, doesn't necessarily mean that it's got a clean bill of health. I'd also find out why the original owner is selling now when there could be more life left than it's relative value. Great cars to last yes, but I'd still do my homework thoroughly on a car like that.

FrankGrimes

Thanks VolvoMan, though that Volvo is a manual not automatic, so not what I'm looking for.

I'm now very close to crunch decision time so would appreciate any thoughts before I jump ahead and make the decision.

I'm basically down to deciding between getting one of 2 2011 Superbs with 170bhp DSG automatic in the Elegance spec or hanging on till January and getting a 2012. First 2011 one here has the advantage (given I'm a Dub) of being a D reg and also has the paddle gears on the steering wheel (though that's not really something that matters much to me as long as the box itself is automatic) and the downside is I'm not sure I like the dark blue colour. This one is Elegance spec with no additional extras (but the spec has everything I need) and the brown colour looks a little nicer to my eye (would need to confirm it in person) and it being a C reg is the only slight downside I can see (would this affect resale value in Dublin 3-4 years from now?).

I can get either of those 2011s for €31k and the best quote I've had (though haven't yet tried all dealers) for a new 2012 Superb Elegance 170bhp DSG automatic with metallic paint is €34,500. To be honest, it may down to just me being clueless, but I'd kinda expected there to be more of a saving to be had on 2011s given that even though they're still close to good as new, they're still second-hand cars. While I don't personally place much emphasis on having a 2012 reg, if the 2011 car will lose value (how much?) once 2012 comes along and also given that the price difference isn't huge, would it be a more prudent approach to pay the extra and get a 2012 or given that I plan to keep it for 3-4 years, would it make more sense to plough ahead with one of the 2011s? I know that's a question only I can really answer for me, but I'd be interested to hear perspectives to take into consideration. Decisions decisions! Either way, I can't wait to get my hands on one of these, absolutely loved it in the test drives...

bf

I wouldn't be hugely gone on that blue colour either. Maybe it's simple man maths but I would have thought a 12 plate in the colour/spec of your choice and 1 less owner would be worth €3.5k more in a few years

FrontDoor

The title of this thread mentions a diesel car for 15k.

You are now at double your original budget. What changed?

Gophur

FrankGrimes wrote: »

Thanks VolvoMan, though that Volvo is a manual not automatic, so not what I'm looking for.

I'm now very close to crunch decision time so would appreciate any thoughts before I jump ahead and make the decision.

I'm basically down to deciding between getting one of 2 2011 Superbs with 170bhp DSG automatic in the Elegance spec or hanging on till January and getting a 2012. First 2011 one here has the advantage (given I'm a Dub) of being a D reg and also has the paddle gears on the steering wheel (though that's not really something that matters much to me as long as the box itself is automatic) and the downside is I'm not sure I like the dark blue colour. This one is Elegance spec with no additional extras (but the spec has everything I need) and the brown colour looks a little nicer to my eye (would need to confirm it in person) and it being a C reg is the only slight downside I can see (would this affect resale value in Dublin 3-4 years from now?).

I can get either of those 2011s for €31k and the best quote I've had (though haven't yet tried all dealers) for a new 2012 Superb Elegance 170bhp DSG automatic with metallic paint is €34,500. To be honest, it may down to just me being clueless, but I'd kinda expected there to be more of a saving to be had on 2011s given that even though they're still close to good as new, they're still second-hand cars. While I don't personally place much emphasis on having a 2012 reg, if the 2011 car will lose value (how much?) once 2012 comes along and also given that the price difference isn't huge, would it be a more prudent approach to pay the extra and get a 2012 or given that I plan to keep it for 3-4 years, would it make more sense to plough ahead with one of the 2011s? I know that's a question only I can really answer for me, but I'd be interested to hear perspectives to take into consideration. Decisions decisions! Either way, I can't wait to get my hands on one of these, absolutely loved it in the test drives...

I have the Skoda Superb in Mocha Brown metallic. I like the colour, it's different to the run of the mill stuff.

Of the two cars, there's going to be a huge difference between the 2.0 CR 170 (very smooth and quiet) and the 1.9, which is older design and much more agricultural. The 1.9 will be well down on performance compared to the 2.0 170.


If you're not getting a substantial discount on the 2011 cars, then wait for a 2012 car, although the lead time on Superbs is long, up to 4 months.

FrankGrimes

Thanks, should just point out that the 1.9 diesel listing was incorrect - it is actually the 2.0 CR TDI called out in the ad title. They'll go to €30,000 for the Mocha Brown 2.0 TDI CR 170BHP DSG Superb Elegance which is being driven as a demo model by the dealer owner so mileage is low. That gives close to €5k saving on the same spec new and is getting towards the type of saving I was expecting so I'm now very close to deciding to go for it as I'd prefer not to spend the extra €5k and I'm currently without a car so would prefer to get it now than wait.

bf

Back nearer the original budget!

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Skoda/Superb/SE-TDI-H/201140204807430/advert?channel=CARS

butrasgali

Any idea what my Octavia vrs diesel is worth - 63000 klm and it's a 08 model
Regards