Buyer's Guides
What to buy
Sounds simple and you probably have a good idea of what car suits your needs, but consider this list to make sure the car of your dreams measures up.
- How deep are your pockets? You may be able to afford the sticker price, but what about insurance, running costs, depreciation and servicing. Ask about these and even speak to owners of the type of car you're considering to get the fuller picture. There's no point scraping to buy a Porsche if you can't afford run it
- What do you need from the car? Is it going to be a high mileage mule or pampered toy? Be honest with yourself and consider the sort of driving you do, how often you carry passengers and luggage. For example, an off-roader can double as an MPV, while small hatchbacks offer almost as much space as a full-size family car
- If you've got kids, can they all fit in the back in child seats or strapped in by a three-point seat belt? If in doubt, take them along, and if the salesman isn't happy there's always another dealer around the corner. Match the car to your lifestyle, not the other way around
- Shop around for finance before buying. Loans, finance and insurance are all negotiable, and don't be railroaded by a salesman who sees the glint in your eye
- Study the options list. Air conditioning is a must, as is a CD player. These items make life more pleasurable for you and the car easier to sell on.
- Colour is vital. If you can't live without a pink Mini, you'll be hard pushed to shift it when you come to sell. But silver with the right extras will have 'em queuing up. Blue is the most popular colour choice in the UK, followed by red and then silver. The more individual you make a new car, the fewer potential buyers.