Ford Fiesta or Hyundai i20 for €11,000?

I have up to €11,000 to spend on a 3/4-year-old car. I was thinking of either a Ford Fiesta or a Hyundai i20 - which is the better buy? And is it better to buy between now and Christmas, or wait until the New Year?

Pauline O'Donnell

Pauline O'Donnell (Dublin 12)

Nov 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Pauline,

At that age, I'd put the Fiesta ahead of the Hyundai. It's better to drive by far, better looking too and barely any less well made or reliable. True, the Hyundai has that long warranty, but at four years old that's coming to an end, so the balance swings back to the Ford. Get the brilliant 1.25-litre petrol engine and I don't think you'll go too far wrong. Lots out there to choose from so be picky when it comes to history, condition and price.

The end of December is the quietest for used car sales in dealers so you could strike a good bargain if you go in there with a cash offer ready to drive away. The New Year could be a bit busier if you're buying through a franchise that also sells new cars.

Let us know how you get on

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe