Budget buys

£5,500 Budget Buying

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Craig Cheetham

May 2002

Budget cars are tempting buys new thanks to generous equipment, good prices and low-interest finance deals, but do they still make sense used? We compare them with earlier mainstream models.
Hyundai Accent 1.3 GSi five-door 2000 V The latest-generation Hyundai Accent marked a quantum leap over its predecessor, with a vastly improved interior, more cabin space and a smoother ride.
Engines aren't the most refined, but have a good reputation for reliability, and the 1.3-litre unit is tough. It's also quite peppy, with 84bhp on tap and respectable 44mpg economy.
Often belonging to older motorists and covering minimal mileage, Accents tend to be sold on through the main dealer network. Here, GBP5,500 will get you a one-owner example with around 20,000 miles on the clock and a year left on the manufacturer's warranty.
Against Without the 'cuddly' appeal of the previous model, it can be hard to sell on to younger buyers. As a result, residuals look shaky ί¿½ in three years the Accent will be worth just over GBP2,200, meaning a loss of more than GBP3,000.
Engines might be reliable, but transmissions are a weak spot. Other niggles include flimsy switchgear and body trim, plus a totally uninvolving driving experience. Overall, the Accent is a much less attractive used car than it is new, as once it's out of warranty it has little advantage over an older but more desirable motor.
Vauxhall Astra 1.4i Envoy five-door 1998 S The Astra's combination of affordable prices, good driving dynamics and above-average build was enough to see it win its class in our Used Car Honours.
The entry-level Envoy has essentials such as electric front windows, a good stereo and twin airbags. But it's on the road where the Astra really scores over the Accent, with handling to rival that of a Ford Focus. The ride is far more comfortable than the Hyundai's, too, thanks to better seats. The Astra also triumphs in the resale stakes. Pay GBP5,500 for a 1998 S with 40,000 miles on the clock and it will still be worth about GBP2,800 when it's seven years old.
Against Many Astras have had a hard life as company cars or rental runabouts, so buy with care and be wary of signs of neglect, such as scuffed bodywork, damaged interior trim and tired clutches and brake components.
The Astra is tough, but the 1.4-litre engine isn't the smoothest and only averages 31mpg in town. Drab wheeltrims and body mouldings mark out the base Envoy and can make it harder to sell on. Unlike with the Hyundai, there are lots of clockers out there, and it's all too easy to get your fingers burned if you don't buy carefully.
Verdict Vauxhall Astra. These cars illustrate one of the major differences between buying new and used. An Accent is great value when showroom-fresh, but makes less sense second-hand. A 1998 Astra depreciates slower and is more rewarding to drive.