Ok second question today on cars. M. is thinking of taking up the Cash for Clunkers (or Bangers 'n' Cash as we're calling it) deal and trading in one of his many (don't ask ) but old cars.

We've mentioned the Mini Clubman and he's also thought about a Honda Fit or Civic. Thing is we just want something for a run around, smallish and economical. Given he's got so much on with work and moving right now I said I'd do some rummaging around and see what's out there. Only problem is of course I'm just familiar with mainly European manufacturers and versions of cars.

Soooo just wondering if you had to buy a smaller car, reliable, good mileage etc. what would you consider?

Thanks in advance

Mandy

http://americandreamcars.com/1968devillecnvt.htm

Ah now ya tweeked my soft spot lol! If money were no object then i'd be hard to pull away from a Ford Thunderbird, although I did love the Torino and the TransAm too. But one of the old classics with lots of chrome, fins, white wall tyres ........... dream on lol.

How many miles you reckon a V8 engine gets lol???

Think you got the wrong link...

http://americandreamcars.com/1975lada.htm

I have a hybrid toyota prius, we bought it in late 07 and I love it! (no jokes please ) the mileage is great, I usually get around 40 mpg, but sometimes more, depending on where I'm driving. It is a 4 door small car, lots of space in the boot and the back seats fold down for extra storage, we have kept up with the dealer services and we haven't had any problems, or had any repairs needed so far

Only thing I could say is a negative, is that it doesn't have lots of power going uphill, so if you live around a lot of hills etc, it may not suit you.

You are my mate so I can say this " I HATE THE PRIUS" I care not what miles it does its a armadillo. with wheels on.

I had one of these in the UK. They are a great car. Not much for style, but for performance, economy and reliability. great little car.

I'm keeping an eye on you.

You too.

Don't worry about it, it's got more style in one hubcap than anything on the road today.

The Fit is highly rated by Consumer Reports, but the Mazda3 5 door has more Pizazz.

How can you hate an armadillo?

Have to admit though, I miss my Pacifica...now that was a lovely ride!

We bought a brand new Elantra last year as a run around for me, I have been very happy with it.

They have a good warranty and right now they are doing a deal for $1.50 per gallon on your first year's petrol purchase.

Out of the three you mention, I'd probably go with the Civic. For in-town driving, they'll probably all be similar in terms of fuel economy. Once you get on the highway, the Civic will win. The Mini is the most expensive, and has by far the highest cock factor - at least around here. The Fit.... just seems like you're buying most of a Civic anyway, with less fuel efficiency. If squeezing into tight parking spaces is important, then it may be a good choice.

A lot of people will say Toyota.... I just rented a new Corolla the other day - seemed like a mini Buick - zero fun to drive.

My '03 Civic just got totaled at 167,000 miles - serious hail damage. Mechanically still fine. Only problem I had was a blown caliper seal on one of the front brakes at 54,000 miles - not an immediately critical issue. Other than that, it was just oil changes at 10,000 miles, air filters, transmission fluid at 60,000, tires, a full service at 110,000 miles including timing belt ($700), a couple of sets of windscreen wipers, and two broken windshields (a standard New Mexico hazard).

I have a Mazda 3 that looks exactly like that....it's a great car.

A Mini Clubman?????

<<<<<<SLAPS FOREHEAD>>>>>>