Which 1.4-litre car for €1,200?

What's the best car I could buy for €1,200? Around 1.4-litre.

Paul Knowd

Apr 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Paul,

I could be glib and give the standard one-word answer to all motoring questions: 'Golf.' But actually, for that kind of money, if you're really careful and track down a nice one with history, I'm going to say Mk1 Focus. Plenty of them about, the 1.4 was hardly a ball of fire but it wasn't too shabby either and it's as poised and as brilliant to drive as many a legendary sports car. Plus, it's spacious, well made and according to the German TUV, they're reliable too.

Just make sure you check underneath for rust. Some of the early examples had dodgy rust proofing so make sure the brown peril hasn't taken hold.

Hope that helps

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe