MK2 Focus or MK5 Golf? Or something else below€4000

magher

I'm in the market for a new car, my price range is about €2000 - 4000. I mainly drive about 20km in the city on workdays and two 60k drives at the weekend.

I'm driving an Alfa 156 1.8 TI atm, but the ride is not anywhere near as good as my previous mk1 focus in the city, its too harsh, although its nicer on the motorway. My Dad's a retired mechanic and is adamant that the mk1 Focus is one the most well built/reliable cars ever made!

I'm in two minds of getting a sensible car (mk5 Golf or mk2 Focus) or something fun when I'm still in my 20's. I've been lusting after Alfa GT/159s, E46 320cd's, E90 318i's . I think I'm going to exclude the Audi TT, mx5 and mk3 MR2, their too girly! (Although I do think their market price has bottomed out, could be good investments) Unless someone can change my mind?

If I was to get a golf or focus it would have to something of the sportier 3 door variety, but not ST/GTi engines, just the looks;)

Any suggestions? Golf TSIs are still out of my price range I think. I was also looking at sporty spec (1.6TDCI or 1.6i with tasteful ST kit) mk2 Focus's from the north, 05-06 models are only about €650 VRT, and they seem to be very rare in the south. Is the early mk2 diesel good? Dual Flywheel/clutch issues?

Or an I'm better holding out until I can afford an 08 model and reap the benefits of cheaper tax?

(Maybe in 5 years I'll be able to afford an E90 320cd:cool:)

bazz26

Alfa 147?

http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Alfa-Romeo/147/1.6-BLACKL/107214168404115180/

http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Alfa-Romeo/147/1.6-LUSSO/48313988733182240/

magher

OSI wrote: »

Your 156 will be more fun to drive than most of the cars you've listed. The only exceptions really would be a well sorted GT, the MX5 and the MR2. What excludes the GTI and STs if you are looking for something fun?

Tax/Insurance reasons basically:mad:

Are their any 1.4 - 1.6 petrol turbo hatchbacks cars around 2004 - 07?

Is the mk2 1.4 petrol as underpowered as the mk1?