After starting the recent thread about small vans that can carry 8x4sheets, thanks to the many helpful suggestions and insights, Iconclude that what I probably want is a reasonable-sized hatchbackthat will take 8x4 sheets on a roof rack. Why a hatchback? (a) more streamlined for long trips and driving at speed.(b) lighter, so more economical(c) I get the impression that some hatchbacks can actually takelarger objects than estate cars (if you drive them with the hatchopen.)(d) better handling because less top-heavy (arguably)So I'm looking for a hatchback (around 10 years old) for £1500 or so,that is:(a) reliable(b) cheap to run (c) cheap to repair(d) easy to get spares for(e) good acceleration (4x4 would be great, espec. for wet roads)(f) handles really well on bends and in crosswinds(g) takes large objects(h) won't give me me a bad back! (seats with good small-of-backsupport)Any suggestions?As for my very occasional need to move house, and take furniture tothe tip, I reckon it makes more sense to hire a Transit for one day,as needed. I just can't seem to stomach the thought of using a transitfor everyday driving. My budget doesn't stretch to having a car *and*a large van.Many thanksK

In message , Kat writesA TARDIS?I'm not sure I'd agree with your point about some hatches being bigger inside than their equivalent estate versions.I'd say a Mondeo would be ideal but I'd consider the estate. The Mondeo is particularly comfortable with excellent seats. Passats are good but not so cheap to maintain. If you really need 4x4 then what about a Subaru Legacy. Not so easy to find but within your budget.

Try a Citroen ZX 1.9 diesel. Our 10year old one is needs plenty of pressure on the accelerator

You should try the ZX 1.9 Auto Diesel.

Nippy reliable hatchback that takes bigger objects than an estate car?

Jan 02, 2005 44 Replies

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raden 21 years ago

In message , Kat writes

I've got a BMW520i I want to get rid of

Half a days work with an angle grinder and a sander - you could have just what you want

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Googolplex 21 years ago

Well I managed to get a full-sized acrylic bath, myself, SWMBO *and* some bags of shopping in a standard Ford Escort hatch..... and that was with all doors and the boot closed (back seats were down of course).

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Googolplex 21 years ago

Shame the 307 is so damn unreliable. Nice car with an unfeasibly large number of stupid quirks and faults. Second from bottom on top gear survey for customer satisfaction. Near bottom on What Car survey for customer satisfaction.

The niggles in our 307 are what's putting me off getting a 407.

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Leveled 21 years ago

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Jason Arthurs 21 years ago

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