Budget buys

Saab's 900 just fits into our GBP3,000 limit, and will even stand out on the road with its classic Swedish silhouette. The base spec 130bhp 2.0-litre model still comes with central locking, driver's airbag and electric windows, and the interior is great for long trips. A reputation for high levels of safety also adds to the appeal of the reliable Saab - what more could you ask for at this price?
Model: Three-door Year: 1995 M Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl petrol Value: GBP3,100

Volvo 850
The 850 saloon is not as popular as the estate version, but that only makes it even better value for the bargain hunter. If you can do without the load-lugger's space, the BMW rival slips into our budget in basic 2.0-litre 10-valve form, costing half the price of a 520i of the same age. The 850 was the first of the new breed of Volvos that saw the marque move towards improved on-road dynamics and a more youthful image, making it a practical and capable bargain.
Model: 10v four-door Year: 1995 Engine: 2.0-litre 5cyl petrol Value: GBP3,000

Citroen Xsara
With great offers on brand new Citroens, a second-hand Xsara can cost peanuts, and easily fits into our ΂£3,000 price bracket. It may not have the dynamics or looks of a Focus, but it has a practical interior and reasonable equipment levels. Introduced in 1997, the 75bhp 1.4-litre Xsara has decent economy, and should provide reliable and practical transport. Watch out for good value special-edition versions that come with extra kit.
Model: X five-door Year: 1998 R Engine: 1.4-litre 4cyl petrol Value: GBP2,900

Honda Prelude
A beautiful body and great handling normally cost a fortune, but the Prelude squeezes into our price range. For the high-performance 183bhp 2.2-litre version with four-wheel steering, you'll need more than GBP3,000 to get a good example. But the 131bhp 2.0 is more affordable, won't have been thrashed like the VTEC models and still gives decent road-holding. Watch for grey imports with odd-looking rear number plates in the Japanese plate shaped square cut-out.
Model: Two-door coupe Year: 1994 L Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl petrol Value: GBP3,100

BMW 2002
If you've got GBP3,000 to spend on a weekend car or if you're brave enough to buy a classic as your everyday runner, BMW's 2002 would certainly make you stand out from the crowd. Despite being 30 years old, the 98bhp 2002's performance is reasonable, with 0-60mph taking 13 seconds, while 25mpg is possible. This Seventies Beemer is all about retro style, and even if it demands more 'tlc' than modern rivals, it shouldn't depreciate if looked after.
Model: Saloon Year: 1968-77 Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl petrol Value: GBP3,000