Suggestions for second car - sub 5k

Kruganomics

Wifey is going back to work after maternity so we're going to need a second car. Looking for suggestions on what to look for from the experts on here.

The commute will be less than an hour/day both ways - circa 20 mins 1 way. Our current car will be used for any longer trips. So basically petrol seems the way to go.

We're aiming for something smallish and cheapish to run - tax and insurance costs will need to be considered.

I'm a fan of the Bangernomics thread on here and love some of the gems that are unearthed. Wifey is insisting on something newer though, so 2011+ really. From what I've seen that will mean the budget will need to be 4-5k - question is what represents the best value in and around that part of the market?

737max

I'm a fan of petrol Jettas, Reliable as VW cars go and don't command the same price as the Golf. Often better cared for than Golf as they are bought by a more conservative type. Low miles would be more important to me than year TBH.

bazz26

If you want something decent from 2011 onwards then I'd say you may need to spend more than 4k or 5k.

Edit: There are a few Renault Clios within that price range:


https://www.donedeal.ie/cars-for-sale/2011-renault-clio-i-music-1-1-nct-03-2019-taxed/16264135

Kruganomics

Thanks for the replies. We've actually decided to change tack.

Wife is going to drive our current car and drop kids off etc. in that.

So I'm going to drive the new car we buy. I'm planning on going the bangernomics route. My commute will be circa 30 - 40 km one way (we're moving soon so not sure exactly yet but will be around this).

Does this mean I should be looking for a diesel? I work from home 2 days a week so the commute would only be 3 days. Does this mean I can get away with petrol?

I ask as I'm think of a bmw e46 318I or 320d. The 320ds seem harder to find, particularly with decent spec.

Also I've read insurance can be hard to come by for cars this old so may need to change the plan if thats the case. Will ring some of them today and see whats the story.

Thanks for you thoughts.

bazz26

80km round trip a day for 3 days a week is not alot. Given you budget limitations I'd go petrol over diesel in that price range as you will get more petrol car for your money. And a cheap BMW can work out being an expensive car to run and maintain. I'd be looking at something Japanese like a Toyota Avensis or Honda Accord if you want something reliable.

Kruganomics

Thanks for the reply.

Glad to have confirmation petrol makes sense, from what I've seen there's alot more bang for your buck in petrol at that price point.

Japaneses would make sense but I'm hoping for something more 'fun' as I've never had the opportunity to drive anything like that before.
Would an e46 318 be a terrible choice if I found one with the n46 engine?

That said I think the insurance companies will decide as I'll have to back in years to get a bmw or similar. They may not be happy with that!!

If I'm forced into a more sensible option I may look at VWs, hoping for highline or maybe a Skoda Superb. Am I putting too much faith in VWs rep for reliability with these?