A MOTORS expert has revealed the best cars you can buy for under £1,000.
With used car prices still stubbornly high and interest rates climbing, it can be difficult to find an affordable option that won’t bust your budget.
A motor expert has revealed the best cars you can buy for under £1,000
Handily, car experts at Auto Express have listed the five cheapest and most reliable second-hand cars in the UK right now, from Ford to Skoda.
Ford Ka Mk1 1996-2008
This second-hand car can be found for £285, according to ParkersFord Motors
The car experts at Auto Express claim that the original Ka was a genius bit of design – looking like no other city car thanks to huge bumpers that helped it to stand up to knocks and cut repair costs.
They explained: “Meanwhile, the late Richard Parry-Jones, who played a pivotal role in the success of so many Fords of the era, ensured the Ka was a cracker to drive.
“Small wonder there’s now an endurance racing series for them, although that won’t be helping with supplies, which are starting to dwindle due to age and rust.”
Honda Civic Mk7 2000-2005
There’s plenty of choice if you’re in the market for a cheap Honda CivicHonda
The car experts claim that if you need dependable transport for not a lot of money, then a Civic should be on your list.
They revealed: “These cars are very well built and have an excellent reliability record, so for a small outlay, you can get yourself behind the wheel of something which is unlikely to let you down.
“The Mk7 version doesn’t look exciting, but its tall body provides bags of interior space. The petrol engines are smooth, and larger units have VTEC variable valve timing.”
Mazda 6 Mk1 2002-2008
The Mazda 6 is a stylish looking motorMAZDA
The Mazda 6, which replaced the unforgivably dull 626, brought with it an engaging drive and handsome looks that have stood the test of time.
The experts said: “The engine line-up is decent, too, even including a powerful 2.3-litre turbo in the MPS – not that you’ll get one for this kind of money. We’d recommend keeping an eye out for rust, which these cars can suffer from badly.”
Nissan Micra Mk2 1992-2003
We found a 2000 Nissan Micra with 24,000 miles on the clock for £995Nissan
The experts claim that bubble car-like styling makes the M11 Micra one of the most recognisable superminis of its era.
Auto Express say: ” It marked a radical change from the boxy, boring K10, and buyers took to the car in droves, with the second-gen Micra clocking up 1.4 million sales. It was also the first Japanese car to be crowned European Car of the Year.
“Early cars are very basic, but most of the survivors are later examples anyway. Whichever you go for, keep an eye out for rust. It’s also possible to buy the next-gen K12 for similar cash, but we’d have the more fun-looking K11.”
Skoda Fabia Mk1 2000-2005
The Skoda Fabia should be a dependable option
Although Skoda had already made significant efforts to improve its image, the Fabia established the Czech automaker’s position as a source of dependable vehicles at competitive prices.
Auto Express say: “Just like the earlier Octavia, Skoda raided the parts bin of the Volkswagen Group to great effect, and we rated the Fabia’s space, quality and value so highly that it was our 2000 New Car of the Year.
“At this price, you won’t have masses of choice, so if you can push the budget a little, it’s worth it. Pricier diesel vRS aside, none of the engines are particularly powerful.”
This comes after a car expert revealed the best cars you can buy for less than £3,000.
Plus, a motor expert revealed the best cars for cheap insurance – and it can help drivers to save HUNDREDS of pounds.