|
cavalier - would tend to avoid the ECOTEC engines.
|
|
|
To echo the Carina E, a friend has an 'N' plated (1.8 litre, I think) example purchased second hand. Now on 150,000 miles, it never, ever, goes wrong. Puts petrol in and drives until the next scheduled service. The gearbox is now a little "worn bearingy" to listen to but still slots in nicely and the burgundy paint on this car that sits outside in all weathers is now pink, but that's it. He thinks nothing about taking jaunts to his native Poland and back in it, laden to the gunwales.
|
|
volvo 940 2.0litre would do you very well,should be able to buy a good one for £1000 ,loads of room in saloon, cheap parts to be had (if you need anything other than service parts)very comfortable and better safety standards on older models than most cars of similar age
|
|
I choose my cars on similar lines, and currently own a 1999 Primera, which I highly recommend as do many here. I also agree with the suggestions of Mk3 Golf - although smaller, they are tough, basic cars, nicely finished, and appear easier than most to work on.
|
Suaru Legacy.
Should get a saloon from about 1995 - 1997 for that money. My only concern might be spares availability, although they are very tough, and reasonably simple given their age, size and 4WD system.
Tyres under £40 a corner for Kumhos from www.valuetyres.co.uk and other cheaper options also available.
Otherwise anything Japanese, mid-90s, repmobile - Mazda 626, Carina E, Primera, etc. would fit the bill. If you want cheap parts, look at the Mondeo too. I also like the Peugeot 406 and my last one gave me very cheap motoring but I put £700 into the current one in the first month, though nothing in the two months since thankfully.
|
Well of course anything at this price carries a significant degree of downside risk so careful selection of whatever is a potential purchase is going to be important. My 2p worth is to suggest a Mercedes W124. Tough as old boots, built like a tank and the diesels in particular have a reputation for longevity. Spares not too bad either. You can see some interesting looking ones on EBay as well.
Cheers MGs
|
£1200 will buy you a very good Primera 2.0i 5-door hatch.
These are very touch, don't usually rust, decent safety rating and easy to service (chain cam engine). Plus there are now lots of 'pattern' parts available at similar cost to parts for a Mondeo.
|
|
No brainer really,Primera or Carina,really can go on just about forever.
|
|
|
|
