Buying advice - new to 206cc's

[dawny10]

Hi all
After a few years of driving old bangers around, I have decided to use the money I have saved and join the real world by buying a proper car, and have settled on the 206cc!

I'm currently looking at 2002-ish 1.6s, around the £4,000 mark, with sub 70,000 mileage.

I'm minded to get one from a trade dealer as I'm not sure I am comfortable handing over that sort of money privately.

Any tips? What should I look for? Most dealers seem to bung it through an MOT so it has a full years but a few dont and only have 5-6 months, is this a warning sign?

Colour-wise, is there an difference on the ability to sell on? I have found a tidy looking firedance one at a good price which I can imagine is not for everyone (I'm still not sure about it myself - think I need to see it in the flesh!)

Any advice gratefully received - both on car specific things to look out for and dealing with dealers. Also, is there any point buying a warranty or are these things not worth the paper they are written on?

Or do you think I am asking for trouble looking at such old ones and maybe save up a bit more to get an 04 or 05?

Thanks all

[GrandadMonkey]

The newer the better. The cambelt will be due on that one. Make sure everything works, and read the owners manual thoroughly before you use it. Especially the roof!

Welcome to the forum.