Car choice: Vauxhall Astra estate vs Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG estate

The Vauxhall is a useful load-carrier, while the Mercedes is both exciting and rare

Pete Stanton has £9,000 to spend on a performance estate for a bit of practical fun. He has a “very open mind” about the choices.

A Car for the Head

I’ll assume that Pete will be happy with a compact estate that looks very sporty, is well equipped and likely to be easy and cost-effective to live with. So a Vauxhall Astra estate is a useful load-carrier, and in SRi trim a particularly stylish package, with some performance on tap. A 1.6 (petrol) engine is certainly not the fastest option but it will be easy to service and economical to run. A 2013 example with less than 40,000 miles, which is still covered by the very reassuring manufacturer warranty is within budget. Pete will love the looks, alloy wheels and extensive safety features.

A Car for the Heart

If Pete wants a car that is both exciting and rare, he might consider the Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG estate. Only 55 came to the UK in right-hand drive. Not only did they have a hand-built V8 engine, but an impressive equipment list; leather trim, heated seats, Bi-Xenon headlamps and a COMAND information and navigation system. About £9,000 will find a 2004 model in tidy condition with a decent service history. This option is one to go for, provided Pete finds a sound example, is aware any repair/maintenance expenditure may be steep, and is content with the insurance premiums.