We found a… 1996 Nissan Primera 2.0 16v GT 5dr hatchback, 67,000 miles, £1,375
Best bits – top spec includes leather and optional air-con (check this works), GT means great fun to drive, full service history, reliability
Worst bits – sporty model so could be thrashed, also has stiffer ride than standard, bland image
Used Nissan Primeras less than £2,000
Peugeot 406
We found a… 2000 Peugeot 406 2.0 LX 4dr saloon, 63,000 miles, £1,395
Best bits – reasonable spec includes air-con, Pininfarina styling, great ride quality, lots of room inside ((MSN Cars boss Tom Evans runs a diesel one of these and swears by it).
Worst bits – servicing costs relatively expensive, make sure all the electric bits work, this car lacks deal-sealing alloys
Used Peugeot 406s less than £2,000
£2,000 – £4,000
It’s impossible to ignore the Mondeo in this price bracket. In second-generation guise it effortlessly blends quality, driver satisfaction and handsome looks into an appealing, well-equipped package. The biggest problem is they’re so common you might find yourself wanting something else – just to be different. But it remains our pick; five years old with circa 60,000 miles for £4K is achievable. Or the same money buys a top class example of the older shape model.
If it’s speed you crave, you’ll get a Vauxhall Vectra SRi 2.5-litre V6 within this budget – not too sophisticated but quick in a straight line. Volkswagen’s Passat oozes prestige in comparison and is becoming increasingly affordable, while the Honda Accord is the best choice for those looking to make the most reliable purchase.
Used Vauxhall Vectras between £2,000 and £4,000
Cars to avoid
The current Laguna may have been the first five-star EuroNCAP car when it was introduced in 2001, but it has suffered from extensive reliability issues. It is very safe, but don’t blame us if you end up on first-name terms with staff at your local service centre. Citroens in this class are best left to the brave: air-suspension and dodgy electrics a pain – jamming cruise control an eye-catching C5 complaint…