Used car values are finally falling again after Covid and the chip crisis, so there are some super bargains at all price points if you k now where to look. Richard Bremner does…

Less than £10k

When you look at this affordable bunch, there are W strong grounds for concluding that you never need to spend more to buy an interesting car with plenty of life left in it. The only significant drawbacks will be outdated or no sat-nav (to which the solution is easy), potentially high VED costs and the possibility that eventually your car’s emissions could exclude it from some British and European cities. But you will, of course, be doing your bit for the planet if you look after said car and maximise the use of its manufacturing carbon footprint.

To narrow the search to betterquality cars, we’re looking only at those that have done fewer than 40,000 miles. It’s a very juicy array.

Ford Mondeo ST220

2003, 34k miles, £9995

This 224bhp 3.0-litre V6-engined Mondeo was quite a rare car in its day, never mind in pristine condition now. Unusually, it’s on sale at a Ford dealership (cars this old must be exceptional for franchised outlets to consider retailing them) and thus comes with a decent warranty. It’s the most expensive ST220 currently on sale but looks fair value against others in this condition. It’s a great drive and if used sparingly will depreciate slowly.

Mercedes-Benz SL 350

2004, 31k miles, £9000

This is terrific value, especially as it has a full service history with its single owner. If you think you need a V8, rather than a V6, consider that this SL will still break 62mph in 7.5sec and it’s noticeably better balanced in the bends.

Mazda RX-8 (228bhp)

2004, 36k miles, £3995

Yes, it’s thirsty and its rotary engine can be troublesome, but the RX-8 is an interesting machine, fun to drive and guaranteed to become a classic. This one looks fit and is real value.

Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0 TFSI DSG

2007, 32k miles, £9995

One of the great all-rounder hot hatchbacks, the fifth-generation Golf GTI represented a return to form for Volkswagen. Our find is a Japanese import so promises a clean, rust-free underside. There’s no mention of a service history, so that needs checking, but it looks terrific value for a car that’s so entertainingly capable.