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Buying a secondhand small car - what would you recommend?

Given continual rises in train fares, its now become both cheaper and easier to buy a secondhand car. I live in London, and it would be used for travelling out of the capital on weekends. My council impose a parking charge, but Band A cars are exempt saving £90 a year, as well as the zero VED.

My ideal budget is anything between 2 - 4K, but I am struggling to find a secondhand Band A model in this range. All the older Yaris / 107 / C1 cars have >100g/km emissions. Should I just buy a Band B car, and pay the extra VED and Parking or should I try and pick up a newer Band A model with lots of miles on the clock. As a first time owner, a low insurance category would be favourable as well.

Asked on 8 January 2013 by Will N

Answered by Honest John
I don't think you will find a decent Band A car within your budget.

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