Volkswagen Golf
It always used to be said that the simplest answer to every motoring question was “buy a Golf” and that holds true, up to a point, today. Even as we dive deeper into the electric era, a VW Golf hatchback still makes a huge amount of sense, and we’ve found a 2015 1.2 TSI version for sale in Cork for precisely €10,000, on DoneDeal.ie. True, it has substantial mileage – 126,000km on the clock – but as long as the service history is fully stamped up, that ought not to be a problem. The bonus is that the 1.2 TSI turbo petrol engine came with a timing chain, not a belt, so it’s more robust overall. Just listen for any timing chain rattle, and check that the air conditioning is working properly. Other than that, this being a MkVII version, it’s basically peak Golf, with exceptional quality and a smooth driving experience.
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Mazda CX-5
If you’re going to buy an SUV, you should buy one that’s above all reliable, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice having some fun behind the wheel. The original Mazda CX-5 is not only a large(ish), practical and comfortable family wagon, it’s also devilishly good fun to drive on the right road. Not only that, but its combination of sharp steering and supple suspension means it’s confidence-inspiring in tricky conditions. We found a 2015 model, with the 2.2 litre diesel engine, for sale on DoneDeal.ie for €9,950. Mazda has a fantastic reputation for reliability, but don’t buy this car if you only ever do short journeys – too many of those not only clogs the exhaust filter but also affects the engine oil, which can lead to serious engine failure.
Wild card: Saab 9-5
The last generation of 9-5 was the car that Saab was making when it died. Basically, it’s a longer, taller Opel Insignia, in mechanical terms, but it has way more character than the Opel in style terms, and has a fabulous cabin with aircraft-style instruments, and much of the quirkiness that made Saab such a household name. Parts are available – some are common with Opel – but can be tricky in some circumstances. The 9-5 also eats through tyres, but where else are you going to find something with this kind of character? We found one, a 2011 2.0 TID Vector, for sale on Carzone.ie for €9,000, from a private seller but with a full service history.
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