Which S320 CDI to choose?

[kheath74]

I have decided I am buying an S320 CDI, the market is great right now to finally get the car I have wanted for a while... but which year to get and at what price. I have a budget of 10K but I appreciate insurance will be Group 16 and servicing will cost more than a standard type of car so looking at Auto Trader as a base I have seen cars from £5k through to £10K and all are similar years, 2001 - 2003 in this price range.

Now I like to same money where I can but equally I dont want to waste it either buy not investing in the right car, is there a distinect difference in the 2001 models from the 52-53 2003 models? I will be buying trade with a FSH either way but I would like any comments on what value I will get on the more expensive car?

It does seem like there are very similar cars, mileage, age, spec yet some are 2-3K more than the others, I havent done the used car market since I bought an FTO a few years back and there are few of them so the choice was limited so I am new to this market and what to look out for.

Cheers

Kyle

 

[stumpy]

Get as new a car as you can. There were many detail changes around the facelift point in 03 making it a better car. Less rust and from 04/04 nano paint too.

 

[hawk20]

Facelift saw lots of improvements. Well worth the extra IMO.

Fully galvanised from beginning of 2003 (but check the production date and not just date of first registration.

Fabulous cars. Rated by many experts as the best saloon car in the world.

 

[kheath74]

I can see your point on this, I have to admit having seen a couple of 2001 models that are very high spec and around the £7k mark, which would leave some money spare for the servicing and insurance. I am off to have a look at one 2001 CDI and one 2001 petrol model, the petrol one has a great spec and FSH and is on at £5.5K so is a great price as far as I can see.

I know the MPG is reported to be 24 for a petrol and 35 for the CDI, so I guess the petrol model will costa fair bit to run in fuel?

 

[Xtractorfan]

Diesel I would opt for, and sat nav is the in thing at the moment..these cars have a good spec so you have to be looking for the luxury toys.. and stay away from anything over 18 inch on alloys.. It is also worth taking out an extended warranty,cost around £350 per year just in case major things come to ligh, air suspension is the big iffy with these cars.. and try for the lowest mileage you can get. Black and silver are the best colours and 03 on had a more comfortable seat ......