Compact old hatchback for 5000 euros - what to choose?
Owners of used Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Hyundai i20 and Nissan Note reveal strengths and weaknesses of models
You are looking for a compact vintage city car and your budget is limited to 5000 euros (about 10 leva). What is most important in this case - size, brand or price? At the same time, the choice is reduced to 000 popular models for more than 3 years - Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Hyundai i10 and Nissan Note, which meet the condition. Their owners point out their strengths and weaknesses, in which case the machines are ranked from smallest to largest.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The budget includes the second generation of the model, which was produced from 2004 to 2011 with a facelift in 2008. It is worth looking at the first generation, because something suitable may come out there too.
Despite its small size, the A-Class offers a wide range of Mercedes engines. Among second-generation gasoline engines, the 1,5-liter engine with 95 hp is the most common, but there is also a 1,7-liter engine with 116 hp. and the first 1,4-liter engine with 82 hp. .s. and a 1,6-liter 102 hp. Diesel - 1,6-liter, 82 hp. Most of the proposed units have an automatic transmission, and in 60% of them this is a variator.
As for the mileage, most of the old model cars have more than 200 km, which means that these cars are driving, and quite a lot.
What is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class praised for?
The strengths of the hatchback are its reliability, handling, interior and good visibility in front of the driver. Owners of the A-Class are pleased with both the ergonomics and the convenient layout of the controls. Soundproofing is at a high level, and tire noise is almost inaudible.
Most of the engines offered for the model also get a good rating. Gasoline consumption reaches less than 6 l / 100 km in urban conditions, and less than 5 l / 100 km in suburban conditions. The model's variable transmission is also surprisingly praised.
What is the A-Class criticized for?
The main claims are to the suspension and cross-country ability of the car, as well as to the small volume of the luggage compartment. Some owners are also unhappy with the performance of the electrical systems, as well as the delay in the response of the ESP system.
There are also complaints about the location of the battery, which is located under the feet of the passenger next to the driver. This makes repairs difficult, which are already expensive. Moreover, the car is difficult to resell.
Hyundai i20
The € 5000 includes the first generation of the model from 2008 to 2012. The most popular engines are the 1,4-liter petrol engines with 100 hp. and a 1,2-liter with 74 hp. There are also offers with 1,6 hp 126-liter petrol, while diesels are very rare. About 3/4 of the machines have mechanical speeds.
The average mileage of the proposed Hyundai i20 is lower than that of the A-Class at around 120 km, but that doesn't mean they drive less.
What is the Hyundai i20 praised for?
Mainly due to the reliability the Korean brand has acquired over the years. The owners are satisfied with the handling of the compact hatchback, as well as sufficient space in the cabin.
The car gets good marks and infects the suspension, which behaves well when driving on bad roads. There is also sufficient visibility in front of the driver, low fuel consumption and trunk volume, which is enough to transport purchases from the supermarket to the house.
What is the Hyundai i20 criticized for?
Most often they complain about the cross-country ability of the model, as well as a stiffer suspension, which obviously someone likes, but someone does not. According to some owners, sound insulation is also not up to the mark, as is typical for models of this class.
Some drivers also criticize the automatic transmission for "thinking" too much before shifting gears. Some older versions with mechanical speeds have a clutch problem that wears out at up to 60 km.
Nissan Note
One of the legends in this class, as this model is larger than the previous two. Thanks to this, it offers the best opportunities for transformation and can meet the needs of those looking for a city car that can be used for long journeys.
The budget includes the first generation, released from 2006 to 2013. Gasoline engines - 1,4 liters with a capacity of 88 hp. and a 1,6-liter 110 hp. as they have proven over time. The same goes for the 1,5 dCi diesel, which is available in different power options. Most units are available with mechanical speeds, but there are also classic automatics.
What is the Nissan Note praised for?
The main advantages of this model are the reliability of the power unit, a comfortable interior and good handling. The owners of the hatchback note that due to the greater distance between the two axles, the car is quite stable on the road.
The Note also gets high marks for its ability to slide the rear seats, which increases trunk space. A high and comfortable driver's seat is also popular with car owners.
What is the Nissan Note criticized for?
Most of all claims are made to the suspension, which, according to some car owners, is too stiff. Accordingly, the cross-country ability of the compact Japanese hatchback is marked as a minus.
Discontent is also caused by poor sound insulation, as well as not very high-quality materials in the cabin. The work of the janitors who "live their own lives" (the words belong to the owner), as well as the seat heating system were criticized.
