[Narcodran]

Thanks, that's good advice. I'll probably have to ignore Mercs for now then, I saw some good priced ones on Ebay but am hearing about problems with the A-Class.

I'm now thinking about a Focus, Honda Type R, Smart Forfour and Toyota AYGO. It's only my first car and I'm not into modding or adding alloys or spoilers or anything like that. I just want a stock car but something stylish. Mercedes has the touch of class I like but maybe later then.

How old are you?

No way in hell will you get a Type R honda for £4k and you won't be able to insure it if your under 21. Unless you/your parents are loaded.

Focus is best IMO, my 1.8 zetec costs same to insure as my first car did (1.2 8v Punto)
It's quick, amazing to drive, practical, reliable.

Only cost me £4k a year ago too, 32k miles mint condition X reg with air con etc