Recommendation required, though I have something in mind

[Dale_5084880]

OK, here goes.

I'll shortly be replacing my 53 reg Volvo S60 D5 SE auto, for various reasons, will need to buy something 'older'.

Here's the requirements:

1. Must be able to pull a 2004 Abbey Archway 520 Royale (single axle, 1500kg MTPLM).

2. Must be a 1997 P reg or newer (ideally pre-2001 to get round the gas guzzler tax) to take my private reg.

3. Must have a fairly upright driving position like a van (though preferably not actually a van!).

4. Should return around low 30's solo on a run, and around low to mid 20's around town as a minimum.

4. I'm not a badge snob, but won't buy a car with a bad reputation for reliability, etc. Imports are fine.

5. No preference for petrol or diesel, though I'd prefer an automatic.

6. My top price is around £4,500 cash.

Now, I do have a particular car in mind that ticks all the right boxes - a Mazda Bongo Friendee (2.5TD auto with 130bhp).

But are there any glaringly obvious cars I'm missing?

 

[rodders2]

have you looked at ford galaxy i use one to tow twin axle slightly heavier than your abbey it feels stable and have

towed for last two years mine is 99v plate so also misses tax

rip off check out diesel though as petrol will give 16 to 18 mpg

not sure mpg on diesel but worth a look on your budget,

would also avoid climate control go for aircon to turn on/off

also has upright driving position HAPPY HUNTING

 

[Dale_5084880]

I did actually look into the idea of a Galaxy, but wasn't really struck by it, though I can't actually put my finger on exactly why! Maybe it was the blue interior they all seemed to have (pet hate of mine!), and I can't help feeling that the economical models will really struggle with my 'van.

I also like the idea of an Espace, though their general unreliability frightens me!

Dale

 

[rodders2]

agree about blue looked around myself found black car with stone trim and leather seats it is a good car lots of space to if you dont need rear two seats and take them out, not so much if left in,but on mazda used to have a 626 kept it for 6 years

and never missed a beat only cost the essentials service/mot etc

so mazda well worth a look in my book good look which ever you choose!!

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Dale,

I have Renault Grande Espace 2.2dt on a W plate. (Phase Three)

I can understand your concerns about the reliability of Renault Espace's, and whilst mine has not been blemish free, it has only let actually me down once on a journey,

In its favour, seven seats, with enough room for luggage. Surprisingly comfortable, and quiet. (quieter than my Saab 93 diesel) It tows very well, stamping its authority on every caravan and trailer I have used. It has the slightly more upright driving position you mention. Higher seating position give good views out.

It is a large vehicle, and its performance is not sparkling but it is more than adequate. Economy I get 32Mpg solo and up to 35 on a long run, and I've not checked the towing consumption but it has not struck me as being over thirsty.

A 1500Kg van is well within its towing capacity.

Mine is the early Dt engine, the slightly latter models used the Dci engine which has better torque and economy.

I strongly suggest you get one with cruise control, because as it is so relatively quiet you can easily begin to creep over the speed limit as you are not so aware of the engine note.

Driving solo it pulls quite happily from 25 mph in 5th gear so its almost like driving an auto with minimal gear changing when under way.

I am sure that other makes such as the VW or Seat which are trimmed differently to the Galaxy are potential options as are the Fiat, Peuguot and Citroen models.

You mention a Mazda import, and I have seen some good prices on the Mitsibushi Delcia which comes in a 2.9litre diesel and 4x4 version with auto box based on the Shogun chassis.

 

[EmmanuelMuldoon]

I very much doubt you would get 30mpg from a Delicia.

However, considering an import does raise an interesting question.

Take, say, a 1999 Bongo, Pajero, Delicia et al, imported over here in, say, 2003. So first registered here in 2003.

How does it fare on the proposed tax hike in 2010 for cars first registered after 2001 (Sept IIRC)?, that's been in the news this past week?

Bet no-one has asked the DVLA yet.

 

[Rick_5041348]

I very much doubt you would get 30mpg from a Delicia.

However, considering an import does raise an interesting question.

Take, say, a 1999 Bongo, Pajero, Delicia et al, imported over here in, say, 2003. So first registered here in 2003.

How does it fare on the proposed tax hike in 2010 for cars first registered after 2001 (Sept IIRC)?, that's been in the news this past week?

Bet no-one has asked the DVLA yet.

Hi Chris

I have an import Nissan Terrano Urban it was first reg in Japan 1996 and reg here by me in 2005 DVLA will still have it in there records as 1996, car tax

 

[Dale_5084880]

I very much doubt you would get 30mpg from a Delicia.

However, considering an import does raise an interesting question.

Take, say, a 1999 Bongo, Pajero, Delicia et al, imported over here in, say, 2003. So first registered here in 2003.

How does it fare on the proposed tax hike in 2010 for cars first registered after 2001 (Sept IIRC)?, that's been in the news this past week?

Bet no-one has asked the DVLA yet.

A pre-2001 Bongo (or any other import for that matter) will always be taxed as a pre-2001 vehicle as emissions data was never published for older vehicles. It's the declared date of manufacture rather than registration that counts.

 

[JandP]

Hi Dale, why are you replacing the Volvo? We are thinking of getting a 4 or 5 year old V70 D5 because we have heard it is a good towcar and reliable so I am interested in what you think is wrong with your S60. Jim.

 

[EmmanuelMuldoon]

A pre-2001 Bongo (or any other import for that matter) will always be taxed as a pre-2001 vehicle as emissions data was never published for older vehicles. It's the declared date of manufacture rather than registration that counts.

Rick & Dale.

I also have an import, made pre 2001 but first registered over here post 2001. They are good value for money.

I hope you are right about the 2010 tax hike not applying to them, but all the reports in the Press last week referred to their "first registered" date, so until I read something definitive from the DVLA, I consider the position uncertain!

Suppose I ought to look on one of the Import forums or ask an import agent?

 

[Dale_5084880]

Hi Dale, why are you replacing the Volvo? We are thinking of getting a 4 or 5 year old V70 D5 because we have heard it is a good towcar and reliable so I am interested in what you think is wrong with your S60. Jim.

Several reasons:

1. It's not a particularly 'stable' towcar (could be the fact that mines got 18" wheels and Volvo Sportpack lowered suspension).

2. Increasing road tax - I'm tight!

3. I have sever back problems, and whilst the Volvo's seats are great, it's getting increasingly difficult to get in and out of.

 

[JandP]

Hi Dale, why are you replacing the Volvo? We are thinking of getting a 4 or 5 year old V70 D5 because we have heard it is a good towcar and reliable so I am interested in what you think is wrong with your S60. Jim.

Thanks Dale, you havent put me off the V70. Jim.