Should I replace my Merc with a Golf or Astra?

I have a 2007 1.8 petrol Mercedes-Benz E-Class with low mileage and my need for a big car has changed and I require something that will not depreciate as quick and will cost less to maintain and run. I'm thinking of a Golf or Astra. What do you think?

Michael O Neill (Arklow)

Aug 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Michael,

I think your best bet then is to go for the Golf. As long as you are buying 2004 or newer (and I presume you're in the market for much newer than that), you'll be getting a car that feels barely, if any, less well made than your Merc, and as long as you go for a 1.6 or 1.9 TDI diesel, you'll have a compact hatch with the sort of performance, refinement and economy to mix it with even the best luxury cars. Depreciation? Well, everything depreciates but the Golf is perennially in demand so you shouldn't have any trouble shifting it on.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe