I've just sold the W124 estate...what shall I replace it with?

[wemorgan]

On a £5k car the OP will lose roughly 20% depreciation each year on almost any car he buys, unless you're about classic cars.

I'd be hesitant to accept those that say the 95 is a rebadged Vectra. Sit in and drive a 95 Aero then drive a Vectra and make your own mind up.

Saabs are not without their own weaknesses; oil sludge, rear shocks, DI cassettes.

http://www.saabscene.com/forum/
is a good place for advice

 

[Rose Chap]

Any of the cars you identify would be pretty good and classy, but if I was in your place I'd definitely go for the E39 5 Series.

The E39 estates are large and still good looking even now, the engines powerful (not to mention a proper straight 6 sound track) and equipment levels are high, as is driving enjoyment.

I've friends with E39s and they love them. Excellent cars.

 

[flango]

Which T5 was that..the original 850 or the newer V70?

The New V70 and I should have mentioned the other posts are correct, dont buy an auto they definitely eat tyres and fuel and are heavier than the manual car which upsets the balance. My manual car only had 3 sets of tyres in the 145,000 mile I had it and as I said 34 mpg the manual version definitely has no torque steer it corners as though it's on rails.

The 2 friend I have who are traffic cops drive s60 or v70 T5 all manual and tyres and fuel are bang in line with what I found.

 

[Seamster15]

I've currently got a 2002 V70 and a E39. They are totally different cars and cannot be compaired!

The Volvo is a 170bhp SE, big soft seats 17" alloys and a hard ride. Bad turning circle but and easy uninvolving drive. You don't need to think much you just drive. It's large and does whats it says on the tin. The interior is a big "plastic" and as usual with most Volvo estates its been "used"

The E39, although older (97) is standing the test of time much better. The interior is solid, the seats hard but very comfy. The engine is Smoooth (528) and the3 paintwork is fantastic. The E39 with achieve up 35mjpg on a run and an average of 30, which if fantasic compaired with the Volvo at an average of 27mpg.

Overall two different cars, is you need somthing to lug and drive without thinking too much get the Volvo its a "nice" car to drive. If you want a car that is more involving takes the bumps better (keep it on 15's) then the BMW is for you.

The best thing about these two cars is that neither of them has any rust!

 

[wemorgan]

I've currently got a 2002 V70 and a E39. They are totally different cars and cannot be compaired!

Just being nosy, but are both of them autos?

I've often wondered about a 5-series myself and assumed like MB they were best bought as an auto, but then worried about the mpg hit.
Thanks.

 

[Seamster15]

Just being nosy, but are both of them autos?

I've often wondered about a 5-series myself and assumed like MB they were best bought as an auto, but then worried about the mpg hit.
Thanks.

Yes both Autos, both quite different but nice to drive.

 

[kwakdonut]

£5,500 in the end. Less £2k scrappage if it is still around then = £3500.

Scrappage will be gone in a few months so that doesn't really factor in!

 

[Londonscottish]

How about a Legacy Spec B?

Subaru Legacy | Long Term Tests | Car Reviews | Auto Express

I'm note sure if this version is manual-only, though. I have a fellting there's a less sporty 3.0 with an auto option.

 

[flango]

How about a Legacy Spec B?

Subaru Legacy | Long Term Tests | Car Reviews | Auto Express

I'm note sure if this version is manual-only, though. I have a fellting there's a less sporty 3.0 with an auto option.

My last car was A Legacy Outback Spec B with prodrvie kit 300 bhp (see Gallery) and whilst I enjoyed the car and it served me well, very reliable, it is still not as an involving drive as the T5. T5 is a much better all rounder and that growl is awesome Please note though all my comments are based on Manual cars as I hate auto's with a passion

 

[WDB124066]

Hi all,

Well, after 2 years of absolutely trouble free motoring, I've just sold my 1993 E220 estate. I need a fair amount of load carrying ability for work on occasions and its done the job brilliantly. It was on Ebay last week, but a local buyer snapped it up for cash, before the auction ended.

So, what are your suggestions for a replacement? I probably have up to £5500 to spend and my current thoughts are an A6 Avant, Volvo V70 (maybe the T5) or BMW e39 530 Touring.

I thought about a W210 estate, however I'm aware of the dreadfull rust issues, not great build quaility etc..so I'm put off of these really.

I'm not too fussed about fuel consumption, 30 mpg would be ok on a run and I want a classy, sporty looking vehicle if possible.

Many of you may shout "get another W124" and I am tempted, but I fancy something newer, with all the gadgets, improved safety and to be honest, something that makes me feel my age of 35. I've had enough of being called an old man when driving....probably didn't help the E220 being smoke silver!

Any suggestions?....

Ferrari 456 GT Estate - Classic Driver - MAGAZINE - features

W.

 

[IMD]

Well, I just bit the bullet and bought a 2003 model Volvo XC70 AWD. Just drove it back from the trader for 30 miles on the M23 and it seems fantastic. Loads of power, electric everything, 4x4 when you need it and sitting at 70 in the slow lane...well, a few people must have thought I was a cop!