Wanted: Car wanted

Thank you Hilary. I've been in the motor trade for most of my life in one aspect or another and I normally find that I can secure a better deal privately. I appreciate your comments and I will do some more hunting before heading to a dealer.

All generally true. However, it is possible to buy a decent car for not a lot of cash.

18 months ago I bought a Mercedes A170 (diesel & automatic). 13 yrs old at the time, but with only 100k kilometers on it (about 60k miles). Absolutely no rust or body damage. I paid just under 3000 Euros for it and begrudged every cent. I could probably have bought the same car (but RHD) in the Uk for about £1000. 

We applied a little TLC to it and it has been completely reliable. Over time, I've had some preventative and curative maintenance done. New brake pads, tyres & servicing. Because of the age of the car, the engine mount rubbers had deteriorated, I had those replaced recently. It now drives like a new car, smooth & quiet.
It sailed through the ITV 2 weeks ago. No issues at all.

The car is in good condition and will probably be good for several more years. Over the time, the cost of ownership will be negligible compared to buying a new car.

I also bought a very low mileage Kia Picanto (2 yrs old for 8000 Euros), which is a great little car, but oddly, I prefer driving the old Mercedes.

Look around and be very, very picky. There is a lot of junk out there.

Thank you FF and Tony, very helpful points of view. J