New Beetle or used Porsche/Mercedes SLK?
I have a choice between the new Volkswagen Beetle or a 2007 Porsche Boxster or 2008 model Mercedes-Benz SLK. I live in Cork (no Porsche repairs) and am not thinking of resale value/fuel economy, but am thinking of repair/servicing/parts etc.
Any tips?
Kieran F (Cork)Apr 2012 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Kieran,
Nice position to be in! We're a little puzzled at the shortlist, but each to their own. I'm sure you know that the Beetle won't be a patch on the Boxster in terms of driving thrills and the Porsche trumps the SLK on that front too.
However, if your priorities are ease of repair, etc. then the Beetle seems to be the obvious choice, as there are loads of Volkswagen dealers around and a new car won't need much doing to it anyway.
Saying that, the Mercedes and Porsche are quite reliable and you have a choice of Mercedes-Benz service centres. While there are no official Porsche service outlets in Cork that we know of, as resale value is not of importance to you I'd suggest you get the number of a recommended mechanic. They'll do just as good a job with a more personal service. Get in touch if you need help on that.
Personally, I'd have the Boxster. Though of course I can understand the lure of the new car. The SLK is a distant third place.
Let us know how you decide - and if you need anything else.
Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser@Shane_O_D