Determine your needs

The type of vehicle you purchase will largely depend on how you intend using it and how much you are willing to spend. If you have been driving for some years, you will already have a good idea of what your requirements are. However, if this is your first car, it may be a bit more difficult.

Two Wheel or Four Wheel Drive	Fuel Type
RAC Finance	Car Safety Ratings
Petrol Vs Diesel	LPG

Price

Always be realistic about your financial resources.

• Remember to include all the extras associated with car buying, such as stamp duty, registration fees, insurance and a vehicle inspection.
• Include the cost of purchasing and installing a Government approved immobiliser (unless already fitted).
• Whether your are looking at purchasing a new or used car, why not get a quote online from RAC Finance? Apply for a car or personal loan with RAC Finance.

Size

Will there be more than three or four people carried regularly? If not, then a small car will suffice unless you are doing regular long trips.

• Small cars are just as reliable and are cheaper to run.
• Smaller cars can offer less protection in a crash and there is a risk of greater injury in the event of a crash.
• Modern small cars offer excellent protection. 
• View car safety ratings to help you purchase the safest car possible. 
• If you are going to use the car for towing a caravan then a six or eight cylinder may be necessary.

Age

Always remember that appearances can be deceiving – especially if you are considering something sporty, vintage, or a little bit different. Although they can look great on the outside, repairs to such cars can be expensive, parts scarce and insurance premiums higher.

• Cars are less reliable as they get older.
• The life of an engine can vary between 200,000 and 300,000 kilometres.
• Even if the engine has been reconditioned, all the other components will be showing signs of wear.
• If you are going to purchase an older vehicle, look for one that has travelled low kilometres, has a good service history and is showing no signs of deterioration (rust, fading paintwork etc) in the bodywork.

Automatic or Manual

Firstly, you need to check that your licence enables you to drive a manual. An automatic is easier to drive but it may use more fuel and may cost more to purchase.

Two Wheel or Four Wheel Drive

Unless you intend to spend many hours off-road, a four-wheel drive is an unnecessary expense.

• A four-wheel drive will be more expensive to purchase, insure, register and run.
• If you would like the choice of going off-road occasionally, then hiring a four-wheel drive when required may be a better option.

Fuel Type

Most cars use petrol however you may come accross one that has been converted to LPG. There are also some diesel cars and many large 4WD may have diesel engines. View our comparison of petrol vs diesel.