Car choice: Reliability and leather within £4000

Bob Deacon wants a car that is automatic,reliable and it must have leather, has up to £4000 to spend

Volvo V70s are known for their hard wearing qualities

A Car for the Head

The lure of leather, scalding hot in summer, until the air con kicks in and freezing in winter unless you have the heated seat option. Most models as the top end of the range have leather as the standard seat covering. I would combine that with the excellent hard wearing qualities of a Volvo V70. These are tough and practical vehicles and the estate is huge. I came across a 50,000 mile 2003 2.0 T SE at £3500 which was in remarkable condition and had just two previous owners and a full service history.

The Honda Accord, is well equipped, smart and has a reputation for running for years

A Car for the Heart

If a large estate is too roomy for Bob, then perhaps the charm and sophistication of an automatic saloon. The really obvious choices would be a Mercedes, BMW or Audi. However, the underrated Honda Accord, is well equipped, smart and has a reputation for running for years without any major items failing, especially the engines. So instead of joining the German crowd, a 2005 2.4i VTEC EX will have everything that Bob needs. The one I found had leather of course a Honda history, and a fresh MOT with no advisories. Executive saloons have never looked better.

If you would like James Ruppert to help with your car choice, email james@bangernomics.com. For more motoring views visit freecarmag.com