I am currently looking for something cheap to run that fits in the fun good-looking category. I drive around 10,000 miles a year, so for the outlay and lack of DPF problems I'd rather stick with petrol.

I really like the look of the Renault Megane Coupe and for my £8k budget could get a 30k-mile 10-plate 1.6. I am concerned, however about Renault long-term reliability and electrics that have always plagued Meganes?

The other option is my Dad's BMW 1-series which is worth similar money - 08 116i SE 5dr. What do you think of this car? I actually really like driving it, but as it is 5 years old now, and has done 50k miles, is it likely to cost me a lot to keep going from now on?