Octavia RS or BMW 3 Series?

2009 Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI RS or 2010 BMW 320d ? I'm looking for a sporty secondhand hatch/saloon with low tax and good economy. Should I go for the cheaper Octavia or the BMW 3 Series?

Thanks

Vittorio Papa (Dublin)

Jan 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Vittorio,

Oooh. Aargh. Ummm. God, this is actually a real toughie as I utterly adore both cars and they're both ideal picks. 

OK, I'll lay out the pros and cons and you'll have to make your own mind up from there.

The Octavia will likely prove to be the more reliable in the long term and is much more spacious and practical than the Beemer. The 320d, by contrast, is much sweeter to drive thanks to all the usual BMW rear-drive balance and it does have a nicer interior. 

To be honest though, I'd grab either with both hands and not let go. See which one you can find that's in better condition or is better value.

Let us know what you decide

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe