help: buying 206cc - newer model-high mileage or older but l

[ceox]

Hi all! I'm new here coming from Australia and wanted to have the 206cc for my first european car. I now have a choice between two cars. The first one is a 2002 model with 137k mileage while the other is a 2004 model with 214k mileage (kms). Both automatic. All things being equal except those expressed here, please guide me in choosing my 206cc. Thank you

[mo7amed3arafa]

I think the 2004 model is a tiptronic gear box.

[ceox]

Thanks mo7amed3arafa. I asked this because I read somewhere that there are many improvements made in the 2004 from the earlier models, electrical especially about the folding roof. Now im not quite sure if such improvements will justify the higher mileage. Please share your opinions my friends

[GrandadMonkey]

All other things being equal I'd go for the 2004. However, I would take each out for a test drive and check over lasting at least an hour. This should enable one to get a real feel for each car. Also consider how many previous owners each car has had. If one has had a lot of owners it could indicate that people have moved on quickly after they've experienced problems.

I'd also budget at least a £1000 for essential repairs and maintenance in the first year on any car of that age.

Good luck, and welcome to the forum.

[ceox]

Thanks GrandadMonkey. Not exactly equal in all terms, the 2004 model has 214k while the 2001 model has 133k mileage (in kilometers). As much as I would love to get the 2004 model, im having second thoughts about the high mileage. However, can high mileage be offset by good and timely maintenance if any? Please share your thoughts. Thanks

[GrandadMonkey]

They have both already exceeded their design life so I personally would buy neither.

However if you wish to choose between the two that is up to you - I don't blame you having second thoughts. The point you have made about maintenance is very pertinent and it would be wise to check the service history of each. An hour's test drive and inspection should give you a good idea of which one to go for if you really want to buy one of them.

Why not test drive them both, record your findings and share them with us. That will give us (and you) something concrete to help you with your decision. Any doubts just walk away, you will have lost nothing.