NEARLY three times as many people buy used cars as buy new and there are lots of reasons, the key one being money. One of the first considerations for any used car buyer is running costs. Which is why I am forever telling people to consider petrol engines over diesel. And people are forever ignoring me. Yes – diesel will usually give you more mpg. But it will often be hugely more expensive to buy. Plus, while they are no more likely to break down than petrol versions, mile for mile, they usually have higher mileages. So they are more likely to break down and there’s a good chance they’ll whack you for a bigger repair bill too. Even if they don’t, many – notably Peugeot and Mitsubishi – have the occasional major service required on diesels which will make your eyes water. But don’t forget every engine has it’s own pattern on prices and mileages so if you must buy diesel buy the right car, if you want a certain car buy the right engine. Here’s what I mean: Ford Fiesta The Fiesta has always been good to drive in a sprightly way. Depreciation is steep which is good for used buyers and there are always plenty to choose from. Private owner examples will often be in the best condition, but there are also some great main dealer cars out there still. Best used buy: 1.4 TDCI UsedCarExpert.co.uk fault checks: 11 UsedCarExpert.co.uk price advice: The 1.4 petrol five door Fiesta from 2007 will have average mileage around 21,000 and dealer prices will be around £7,000. The 1.4 TDCI equivalent, which manages 18mpg more will be £6,600 with less than 10,000 miles more on the clock. Vauxhall Corsa One of the best looking small cars on the market. Excellent build quality. Huge variety of specifications and equipment. But unlike the Ford, the petrol makes more sense than the diesel. Best used buy: 1.2 petrol UsedCarExpert.co.uk fault checks: 10 UsedCarExpert.co.uk price advice: The 1.3 CDTI offers 10mpg more than the 1.2 petrol and has a small mileage difference of 5,000. But a three year old one is at least £600 more – which is 2,500 miles at today’s fuel prices. If you do 10,000 miles in both cars, your saving on fuel through buying diesel is about £200. So you are still £400 down. Peugeot 207 Not sure who this car is for. Typically funky/quirky Peugeot design that appeals to the young. Comfortable seats and soft Peugeot ride appeals to the old. Reasonable value. Best used buy: 1.2 petrol UsedCarExpert.co.uk fault checks: 9 UsedCarExpert.co.uk price advice: The key point to know about buying a used diesel Peugeot (over three years old) is not price or mileage but that at one of the services at some point in the future the PEF (Peugeot Emission Filter) will need replacing. Which adds £400 to your service bill. Factor that into the purchase price and the petrol becomes very appealing. | 
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