First car 2.5 - 3k limit

TPD

Hi folks.

Learning to drive at the minute, looking to buy a car after 5/6 lessons to get a bit of practice and eventually drive daily after getting the full licence.

I figure with insurance costs, my limit is about a 1.2l engine. I'd be willing to spend 2.5-3000 euro.

I'd much prefer a 4 or 5 door if possible, and the roomier the better. I'm not into the boy-racer type cars.

I've seen a couple of Skoda Fabias going within my budget, I was wondering if these have a reputation, good or bad? I remember hearing Skoda's were crap 25-odd years ago but have turned it around recently.

Something like this would be ideal:
http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/3848138


So I guess my questions are -
Are fabias any good?
If not, any alternatives to recommend?
Should I scrap this idea, get something very cheap and weak, then upgrade after a year or twos experience?

Thanks for any help

Light Switch

Just get a Zetec Fiesta for €1k and save up for something interesting then in a few years.

TPD

Was worried that'd be the sensible option :P
Thanks

pjmn

... or a Yaris (1l engine)...

Frankie Lee

I'd go for something like this if you were willing to spend a little extra on insurance for a 1.4.
http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/3933666


The Fabia's aren't great and as said above a fiesta/mazda 2 are solid options.

sleepyholland

I was in your position about 4 years ago and bought a 2002 fabia.
I found it to be perfect for my needs and still drive it now. It's a 1.4, comfortable to drive, easy to manouver and park, and okay on the motorway. It also hasn't cost me a penny in maintanance other than the recommended servicing and occasional light bulb.

I think they're a lot nicer than micras, but I'd suggest the hatchback over the estate.
And I woudn't argue against buying a cheaper fiesta or yaris if you plan on upgrading sooner than I did

TPD

Thanks for the advice.

Yaris look a bit too toy-like for my liking.. I suppose I shouldn't really be too picky if I'm replacing it in a year or two. Micra/ka are far too toy-like though.

The estate I just saw this morning, didn't know they were an option at that engine size. The idea of throwing a mattress in the back for a weekend camping is quite appealing though :P

ironclaw

TPD wrote: »

Thanks for the advice.

Yaris look a bit too toy-like for my liking.. I suppose I shouldn't really be too picky if I'm replacing it in a year or two.

Yaris is a great car to learn in and isn't exact slow (Not fast, but not a snail either) They also hold their value extremely well and are a solid little car. I never had any trouble with mine bar a water pump even with the crazy mileage I had on it. Never replaced a clutch in 6 years or so, even with 2 learners through it.

Don't be too picky now. Get a decent car to get you around. You'll regret buying something big and a little sporty when you can buy something even better in 2 years.

On a side note, remember to factor in fuel and basic maintenance. It all looks well on paper until your wallet has to pay for it

akura

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/3939072