What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Should I buy a lower mileage, newish car or an older model that's high-spec?

Should I buy a higher spec or lower mileage/newer car?

Asked on 25 May 2022 by Susanna Simmons

Answered by Andrew Brady
It depends on a range of factors but there's probably a good middle ground. While a newer, lower-mileage car will probably be cheaper to run in the long-term, there's no point missing out on certain luxuries, particularly if you spend a lot of time in your car. A higher-spec car will probably hold its value better and be easier to sell on in the future, too.
Similar questions
I am thinking of changing my Ford Mondeo estate for a more recent Ford Galaxy auto. Not more than four years old and, say, not more than 30,000 miles with full service history. Which is the top spec for...
What is the meaning of the different lengths and widths in the data for any given car?
Is there any way to determine which factory fitted options are present on a used car? I'm looking at BMW and Mercedes at the moment, and there are some wild differences in used prices, which I'm assuming...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer