Get yourself a low mileage Mondeo.
Bit pricier and a bit uglier than Vectras. If I don't find a banger before the weekend I'll go to Fords of Winsford, hundreds to choose from, no haggle pricing.
I reckon that's a matter of opinion and I'm sure a Ford is tougher and better build than a Vauxhall.
Fords of Winsford has some real dog ends. Ebay is the place to pick up cheap motors. I could get the likes of that ford for £500
They are just better to deal with than your local car dealer, plus loads of choice. Problem with all private sales is the trailing around, the hastle of checking the car is not dodgy and then how to pay for it.
For a car around a grand, cash.
It's amazing the deals you can get by showing cash to a desperate private seller or even a dealer.
Just having a little scan at what is on offer within a mile of home. There is still the hastle of checking they actually own the car before handing over the wad or would you go on the log book only for a grands worth.