Shaun Parker has been researching the car retail industry for some time now. To search for a new or used car at a reputable Peugeot and Vauxhall Dealers visit http://www.dickensgroup.com.
If you are looking for a small family car then chances are you will have been to the local car dealership to look at the latest offerings from Peugeot and Vauxhall. Both manufacturers have a long history of providing reliable vehicles to this segment of the market. The new Peugeot 308 and new Vauxhall Astra have built upon past success. So is it worth going new or should you opt for a used version of these classics?
The Peugeot 308
In September 2007 Peugeot released the Peugeot 308 under the tagline 'The drive of your life'. It was built on the success of its predecessor the 307. The designers have managed to incorporate high standards of safety equipment and excellent road handling into the new model. It provides a spacious interior and greater carrying capacity which can be expanded to 1,398 litres when the seats are folded. The Peugeot 308 boasts class leading aerodynamics that helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The 1.4 VTi 95bhp with 5-spd manual gearbox retails at Peugeot dealers in the UK from GBP11995. The 1.6 HDi 90 bhp 5-spd manual gearbox can cost as little as GBP13295. The car performs well with the 1.6 THP 150 bhp version reaching 0-60 mph in just 8.8 seconds and a maximum speed of 132 mph. The 1.6 HDi 110 bhp version boasts 60.1 miles per gallon consumption rate.
Vauxhall Astra
Designed to 'match the energy of your life' the Vauxhall Astra provides innovative features to provide flexible space alongside safety and security. The Astra comes with twin front airbags, front seat side impact airbags, Anti-locking breaking system (ABS) and Electro-Hydraulic Power-assisted Steering. The Astra provides a flexible 60/40 or 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat and a vertical load restraining net to help maximise the spacious interior. The 1.4i 16v Manual can be purchased for as little as GBP12915 with the 1.3CDTi 16v (90PS) Manual diesel retailing from GBP14500 at Vauxhall dealerships. The Vauxhall Astra Hatchback 1.6 16v 115 Life 5dr can achieve 0-60 in 11.5 seconds and has a maximum speed of 115 mph. It has a four star rating from What car?
A new car will benefit from your exact specifications and buying new can be extremely fulfilling. It is however worth considering that depreciation is the biggest cost when running a car. It may be worth buying a used vehicle. The biggest drop in value happens within the first 12 months and you can save a lot of money buying second hand. This might not mean you have to miss out on a warranty with many reputable dealers offering 12 months on used vehicles and there is always the option to take out your own policy with an independent provider. But the main benefit to a used vehicle is the price. Here is a brief introduction to the used versions of the Peugeot and Vauxhall small family cars.
Peugeot 307 (2001-)
The Peugeot 307 benefits from a stylish design and is packed full of safety equipment. Criticisms have been made of the cars handling and it also has one of the smaller rear spaces on the market. The used version has demonstrated some problems with the suspension and head gasket so it is beneficial to expect and scrutinise service history. There are so many on the market that they can be picked up for as little as GBP2595 to GBP12570 and can provide you with a bargain.
Vauxhall Astra (2004-)
The used Vauxhall Astra from the same supple ride composed handling and strong engine as its younger sibling. It is important to check for signs of crash damage and uneven tyre wear. It is advisable to shop around to make sure you find the right one for you and to expect a full service history. It is a very reliable vehicle made popular because of a reputation for its tough durable motor and therefore represents a good option for buying used. It is the fifth choice in what car? recommended used car buying guide. It will set you back between GBP5435 and GBP11720.
- Related Articles
- Related Q&A
- New or Used Cars? Reasons Why You Should Consider the Used
- New or used? Vauxhall v Peugeot - Your Guide to Small Family Cars
- What Can Your Peugeot Dealership Offer You?
- A Review Of The Peugeot Supermini Range
- Why An Approved Dealer Is Vital When Buying A Used Convertible
- A Brief History Of Peugeot; From Dresses To Cars
- European Cars Push the Envelope of Performance
- Things to Consider When Choosing a New Car




Cheap Hire Cars -Seal the Deal Through Cheap Hire Cars
By: David Patullo | 01/12/2009Cheap hire cars are a blessing to people who want or need to travel. Are you a representative of a company that requires you to travel on a regular basis? Do you have a business that you need to promote by going from one state or country to another? Are...
Discount Car Hire - the Way to Go for the Holidays
By: David Patullo | 01/12/2009Discount care hire opportunities are alive and well during this economic crisis and there's no reason to take advantage of them even if we are experiencing some level of economic hardship. If for some reason you're out and about holiday shopping, visiting friends and relatives or just traveling to and...
What to Look For When Buying a Used Car
By: Coleen Bennett | 01/12/2009Buying a new car is a relatively straight-forward process. You know the car is brand new, so it should be perfect. The auto maker stands behind its product with a warranty. Once you've decided on a model, it's the same no matter which dealership you get it from. The only...
Understanding How To Repair Your Boat
By: nlwest21 | 01/12/2009Your boat is important and what you will use when you want to relax or catch some fish. Learn how to repair and maintain them.
Checklist for Winter Drivers
By: Tavi Price | 01/12/2009Here are some tips for winter drivers, find the basic car maintenance checklist to keep your car in top running condition this winter driving season. Make sure you, your passengers and your vehicle are safe in cold weather, wet and snowy driving conditions.
Getting The Best Car Insurance
By: Bill | 01/12/2009Providing some basic advice on the purchase of car insurance
Quad Bike Accidents
By: Stig Johanson | 01/12/2009Honda built the first three-wheel all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in 1970. Also referred to as a quad bike or quad, these were popular right from the start. Low pressure tires, a straddled seat and handle bars seemed the perfect way to fly over terrain where street vehicles could never go. It didn't...
What does the Honda Crosstour have in common with the 2011 Ford Mustang?
By: Brickell Honda | 01/12/2009But what exactly is it that these two vehicles have in common? Can it be their amazing gas mileage? The new 2011 Ford Mustang will reportedly reach 30 mpg on the highway, which is a big improvement from the 2010 model that only gets 20mpg on the highway. The Crosstour, like most Honda’s, was designed particularly for those who are fuel efficient conscious.
Health And Safety Training In Schools
By: Shaun Parker | 13/10/2008 | FinanceA look at some of the ridiculous compensation claims that have cropped by from children in schools having genuine accidents.
Kills All Known Germs - Dead
By: Shaun Parker | 12/10/2008 | HealthCleaning fluids are not noly harmful to our health but also to the environment. This article looks at a cheaper,more effective solution to our cleaning needs that will kill germs and remove grease and dirt effectively.
Please Take A Seat, Sir
By: Shaun Parker | 12/10/2008 | HealthA look at the importance of getting the right office furniture to avoid staff health issues later on and possible compensation claims.
A Breakthrough In Wet Suit Design
By: Shaun Parker | 11/10/2008 | Sports & FitnessA look at how difficult it can be for a surfer to negotiate a wet suit and how new design ideas are coming on the market to make it easier.
Senior Dating For Those With Baggage
By: Shaun Parker | 11/10/2008 | DatingA look at why older people are turning to the internet in greater numbers to find themselves a partner. Senior dating is becoming big business where people simply want to find themselves a companion to enjoy their future with.
Bounce Your Way To Health
By: Shaun Parker | 10/10/2008 | Sports & FitnessA look at the fun to be had with a trampoline as well as the inbuilt health benefits for adults and children alike.
Pill Popping For A Longer Life
By: Shaun Parker | 10/10/2008 | HealthA look at the potential for everyday painkillers to help in many areas of our health if taken in low doses on a daily basis.
How The Economic Down Turn Is Affecting New Car Sales
By: Shaun Parker | 09/10/2008 | FinanceA look at the way the current financial situation is begniing to affecting manufacturing, particularly the motor industry.