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I am retiring at age 65 shortly. I have had a Volvo 850 automatic since I bought it new in 1996, it has done 103,000 miles and is in excellent condition. I just drive it locally two or three times a week now as I am in ill-health. It is expensive to run, so I have been thinking about buying a FIAT 500. My dilemma is the running cost savings of getting rid of the Volvo against the capital expenditure of buying the Fiat. What would you advise?

Asked on 24 April 2010 by M.P., Windsor

Answered by Honest John
I've been running a FIAT 500 1.2 Lounge for 2 years. No faults. 52.5 mpg average. And it's lost about £800 in value in that time. Not bad. It's also surprisingly comfortable to drive distances. Geared at about 23 mph per 1,000 in 5th, so not too buzzy on the motorway either. But the 2010 version has vastly better Ford developed suspension, so steers, handles and rides much better. Another benefit is free first year tax and £30 a year thereafter. Against that, the Volvo is worth buttons as a trade in. Maybe £500.
Dear Honest John,

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