Son just got a new fulltime job. Probation is 6 months and lookng for a replacement of his old clunker.
Budget is $25k and I'm overwhelmed with choice. First decision is whether new or used. Being a god OzB, I'm inclined towards used.
I guess the lad wants something with character, but I want reliability.
Please flood me with suggestions!
Many thanks!
He's off his P's, may as well go all out with an EVO
If you can find one that's been looked after OK with not crazy high K's, the Corolla Sportivo.
Depends if they're in to cars or not but if they are, the 2ZZ is a marvel of engineering (similar to the K20 in a lot of ways, but the corolla has the advantage of not being a honda civic), and japanese cars/engines tend to be a bit more forgiving/fun to deal with - I'm convinced that the majority of BMW/Mercedes designers have not read books on ergonomics.
Yeah it's a bit old but it's a corolla and it's got vtec!! It's basically a sleeper from the factory.
Otherwise, I personally think the Fiesta ST is by far and away the best "fun" car for ~$25k you can buy right now (miles ahead of the 86), but it may not be roomy enough. Enjoy your search!
Sporivo was my dream car when I was younger.
Yes Ford is good and many friends have them. Pity they're not competitive enough…. Will have a look. Thanks!
You already know the answer to your question.
All new drivers will eventually have a car crash. So why bother with a new car. The trick is to get a 2nd hand, decent and safe car for your kid.
You can easily buy a tough 2nd hand european car for that price.
I'm so sick of these damn "what car should I buy?" Threads in the hot discussion topic area.
One suggestion depending on your location might be to take him to an auction house and keep an open mind. A nicer car might come through well under budget allowing a bit of extra headroom for future overheads. Especially considering he is still on probation
Thanks but I think auction is not for the fainted heart.
A friend of mine recently wrote up a piece summarising his thoughts on buying a new versus a used car. He's usually my go to for car advice. Might be worth flicking it to your son to have a read before he makes a decision.
Thanks! Will pass it on. I've told him many times but good to hear from someone else.
I will shortly sell a Kia Cerato hatch bought new for 19.5k for about 10k @ 4 years old. Has been rock solid and caused no issues. I would be suggesting getting something similar with a 5 year+ warranty at about the 4 year mark where you're still protected if something goes wrong but you're paying approx 1/2 new price.
Used Evo
Go for an i30 or a cx3.
I have an i30, pretty fuel efficient, heaps of space (we take it camping, have moved house and it's surprisingly spacious.
He think's he wants a car with character…..I have a new Mustang and will almost always choose to drive the i30 just because it's more economical and I know i'll have enough room if I need to give friends lifts or go shopping etc.
Another vote for Kia Cerato, for ~$19
*7 Years warranty
*7 Years capped price servicing
*7 Years Roadside Assist
Pocket the rest for a nice holiday. Or smashed avo
Use Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart