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Our guide to buying a car on gumtree.com

Buying a used car can be both exciting and daunting, but with the right approach, you can find a great deal that suits your needs and budget. Gumtree, a popular online marketplace, offers a vast selection of used cars. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth and successful used car purchase on Gumtree.

Research and Planning

Begin by determining your budget and what type of car you need.

Research makes and models that fit your criteria and read reviews to narrow down your options.

Consider factors like fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums.

Create a checklist of features and specifications you want in a car.

Browsing Gumtree

Visit the Gumtree website Gumtree | Free classified ads from the #1 classifieds site in the UK or app and use the search filters to refine your results.

Set filters for price range, location, make, model, and year.

Take your time browsing listings, and don’t rush into making a decision.

Verify the Seller

When you find a potential car, check the seller’s profile and rating on Gumtree.

Communicate with the seller to ask questions about the car’s history, condition, and maintenance records.

Ensure the seller is the registered owner and has a clear title for the vehicle.

Vehicle History and Inspection

Run a full check on checkamotor.co.uk run a background check to reveal any hidden issues.

Schedule a time to view and test drive the car.

Inspect the vehicle thoroughly, checking for signs of accidents, rust, or mechanical problems.

Negotiation and Documentation

Be prepared to negotiate the price with the seller.

Once you agree on a price, ask for a written receipt or agreement.

Ensure all necessary paperwork, including the title, service records, and bill of sale, is in order.

Payment and Transfer

Arrange a secure payment method. Cash is common, but bank transfers or cashier’s checks offer added security.

Complete the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership and register the car in your name.

Don’t forget to update your insurance policy to cover your new vehicle.

Conclusion

Buying a used car on Gumtree can be a rewarding experience when done right. By following this guide, you’ll minimize risks and maximize your chances of finding a reliable and affordable vehicle. Remember to take your time, do your due diligence, and, most importantly, enjoy the process of finding your perfect ride. Happy car hunting!

Take a bow Direct Line. £30m of refunds ouch!

As Churchill would say Oh yess..

We have done some research recently and have always found Direct Line costs around £300 to £400 more per annum for an insurance policy. We recommend using moneysupermarket.com or gocompare.com every time about 3 weeks before your insurance is due.

Direct Line Group, the owner of Churchill, Direct Line, and Privilege, is set to reimburse approximately £30 million to customers of these three brands who were charged more for renewing their home or car insurance compared to what they would have paid as new customers, violating Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations. In the following sections, we will detail what led to this situation, who it affects, and how refunds will be processed.

If you are considering renewing or purchasing a new insurance policy, we recommend consulting our Home insurance and Car insurance guides for valuable insights. You can also refer to our guide on factors influencing your car insurance quotes.

Direct Line Group’s Overcharging of Renewing Customers:

Starting on January 1, 2022, the FCA prohibited home and car insurance providers from imposing higher renewal prices on existing customers than what they would charge new customers for the same policy. Prior to these regulations, many insurers raised prices for loyal customers, a practice known as the ‘loyalty penalty.’

Direct Line Group has acknowledged an error in implementing these regulations across its three car and home insurance brands, resulting in some customers paying higher renewal rates than they should have. 

At this stage, the exact number of affected customers remains unclear, although Direct Line Group asserts that the majority of those experiencing premium increases were not overcharged. The insurer is currently reviewing all home and motor insurance renewals made since the implementation of the FCA rules.

It’s important to note that Green Flag, also under the Direct Line Group umbrella, exclusively offers breakdown cover, which is not subject to the FCA’s renewal pricing rules. Consequently, Green Flag customers are unaffected by this error.

new-car-discount.com

We found a £3k saving on a Mazda 3 2.0 e-Skyactiv G MHEV Centre-Line 5dr that is worth sharing. Just click the link below..

New-Car-Discount

The New Tesla Model 3

Exterior Changes

The car has a redesigned, slightly lower front end and narrower headlights, which not only gives it a slightly sportier look, but also improves the aerodynamics. This helps bring the range up to 629 km (391 miles) on the Long Range, all-wheel drive variant, and 513 km (319 miles) on the regular, rear-wheel drive variant. Prior to the refresh, these numbers were 602 km (374 miles) and 491 km (305 miles), so we’re looking at a roughly 5 percent improvement.

The rear end has also been changed, with a TESLA sign replacing the “T” logo, and new, pincer-like tail lights also giving the Model 3 a slightly more aggressive look. From the side, not much has changed, though the wheel choice is now between the 18-inch Photon wheels with new black hubcaps, and the 19-inch, silver-coloured, aluminium Nova wheels.

Interior Changes

The center touchscreen now has smaller bezels and more usable screen space; more precisely, the display’s diagonal has grown from 15 to 15.4 inches. On the photos, it looks similar to the display in the new Model S and Model X, but that one is still bigger at 17 inches. Tesla says the new screen is brighter with higher contrast, and more responsive.

Then there’s the entirely new, 8-inch rear display, allowing passengers in the back to control the air conditioning and watch the car’s entertainment. The sound has also been improved, with the number of speakers growing from 14 to 17. The Long Range model fares slightly better here, as it has two subwoofers and two amps, compared to the single amp on the Rear-Wheel Drive model.

The front seats are now comfier, Tesla says, and ventilated, while the rear seats are also comfier and perforated but not ventilated. And yes, the car now has customizable, ambient LED lighting.

The Best ULEZ-Compliant Cars on a budget

Are you on the hunt for a reliable used car that won’t incur those pesky ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charges? Many cities around the world are increasingly tightening their restrictions on vehicle emissions, ushering in the era of ‘low emission zones’ or ‘clean air zones.’ Among these, the ‘Class D’ clean air zones are the ones that impact privately-owned cars the most. These zones dictate specific emissions criteria, and any vehicle failing to meet these standards faces the prospect of incurring charges when venturing into the designated areas.

While clean air schemes of various types have been in operation in cities like Bristol and Birmingham, London’s ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) scheme shines as one of the most noteworthy. What began as an initiative focused on the most congested and central parts of London expanded significantly in October 2021, stretching its boundaries to encompass the areas between the north and south circular roads. However, the ULEZ expansion continued, and on August 29, 2023, it broadened its reach to encompass all of the London boroughs, making almost all areas within the M25 part of the ULEZ.

So, what’s the key to avoiding those ULEZ charges? For petrol cars, it all comes down to meeting the Euro 4 emissions standards, which became mandatory for all new vehicles as early as 2005. Diesel cars face more stringent rules, as they need to adhere to Euro 6 emissions standards, which only became mandatory in September 2015, though many diesel cars before this date already met these requirements. If your beloved vehicle falls short of these standards, you’ll find yourself shelling out a daily £12.50 charge every time you enter the ULEZ.

Now, let’s delve into the best ULEZ-compliant cars that can help you navigate these stringent emissions regulations without breaking the bank:

Citroen C1 – Affordable and Eco-Friendly: The Citroen C1 proves that you don’t need to break the bank to own a ULEZ-compliant car. This compact city car, introduced in 2005, boasts Euro 4 emissions compliance, ensuring you can navigate London’s streets without incurring the £12.50 daily charge. While it might not be the roomiest option, its petite dimensions make it a breeze to maneuver through city traffic. Furthermore, its small petrol engines translate to cost-effective fuel consumption and insurance premiums. You’ll be pleased to know that used Citroen C1s can be found starting at a wallet-friendly £1,500.

Toyota Prius – Affordable Hybrid Excellence: As the first widely successful mass-market hybrid, the Toyota Prius has long been a symbol of eco-friendly driving. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly hybrid options on the market, with high-mileage examples available for as little as £3,500. For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, we recommend the third-generation Prius, introduced in 2009. All versions of this generation are ULEZ-compliant and offer a spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for city dwellers. It’s frugal on fuel and has earned a reputation for impeccable reliability, with many examples racking up over 250,000 miles. You can snag a well-maintained third-generation Prius with fewer than 100,000 miles on the odometer for around £7,500.

Mazda 6 – Affordable ULEZ-Compliant Diesel: Owners of older diesel cars face the toughest challenge when it comes to avoiding ULEZ charges. Euro 6 emissions regulations, the gold standard for diesel vehicles, weren’t introduced until a full decade after Euro 4 became mandatory for petrol cars. Fortunately, several diesel models met these requirements well before the September 2015 cutoff, including the third-generation Mazda6, launched in 2013. All diesel models of this generation are ULEZ-compliant. The Mazda6 is available as both a saloon and an estate, boasting a stylish design, a practical interior, and a strong reputation for reliability. Prices for used models start at a tantalizing £3,000.

Fiat 500 – Style and Urban Charm: The Fiat 500 has achieved icon status in urban areas since its revival by the Italian automaker in 2007. Its diminutive dimensions and nimble driving dynamics make it a joy to navigate through city streets. Despite being on the road for over 15 years, its fun and youthful styling has aged remarkably well. A variety of special editions, including the ‘Colour Therapy’ and ‘byGucci,’ have added extra flair to this chic Fiat. While most Fiat 500s are equipped with petrol engines, exempting them from ULEZ charges, a handful were sold with diesel powertrains. It’s essential to steer clear of these diesel variants if you aim to avoid ULEZ fees. Used Fiat 500s typically start at around £2,000.

BMW 3 Series Touring – Pet-Friendly Practicality: If you’re in the market for a practical estate car that doesn’t sacrifice driving pleasure, the BMW 3 Series Touring should be on your shortlist. With a capacious boot and ample rear seat space, it’s tailor-made for families. Additionally, it’s roomy enough to accommodate a larger canine companion comfortably in the rear cargo area. We recommend the sixth-generation BMW 3 Series Touring, available between 2012 and 2018. Earlier diesel variants from this era may not meet ULEZ standards, so if you aren’t planning extended motorway journeys, the smooth 320i is a fantastic choice. Prices for a well-maintained example typically start at £9,000.

Ford Fiesta – Widely Available and Affordable: The Ford Fiesta enjoys universal appeal, making it an excellent choice for new drivers or anyone seeking an affordable runabout. Our recommendation falls on the sixth-generation petrol models, available from 2009 to 2017. Throughout these years, the Fiesta consistently topped the charts as the best-selling car, resulting in a vast pool of used models to choose from. Opting for a petrol model from this era guarantees ULEZ compliance, as they are at least Euro 4 vehicles. This generation of the Fiesta boasts modern styling, enjoyable driving dynamics, and commendable fuel efficiency. However, it’s prudent to steer clear of diesel variants, as their ULEZ status is uncertain. You can typically find a used Fiesta from this era for approximately £1,500.

Kia Xceed Hatchback 1.5T GDi ISG 2 5dr

nationwide-cars.co.uk are offer a Kia at the great price of £20,437 OTR a saving of £3,204. Below is the link..

Kia Xceed 1.5T GDi ISG 2 5dr (nationwide-cars.co.uk)

We love pistonheads.com

In the ever-evolving landscape of the internet, certain platforms rise above the rest, not just for their content, but for the unique experiences they offer to their communities. One such gem in the realm of automotive enthusiasm is PistonHeads.co.uk. With its rich history, unparalleled content, vibrant community, and seamless user experience, PistonHeads.co.uk stands as a beacon for automotive enthusiasts around the world.

A Legacy of Excellence: PistonHeads.co.uk boasts a legacy that spans over two decades, making it a trusted name in the automotive community. Since its inception, the platform has been committed to delivering accurate, engaging, and insightful content. From in-depth vehicle reviews to breaking industry news, PistonHeads.co.uk offers a diverse range of articles that cater to both casual readers and serious enthusiasts. This commitment to quality has solidified its reputation as a go-to source for automotive information.

Unrivaled Content Diversity: What truly sets PistonHeads.co.uk apart is its unparalleled content diversity. The platform doesn’t limit itself to a specific niche within the automotive world; instead, it covers a wide spectrum of topics. Whether you’re passionate about classic cars, high-performance vehicles, or the latest advancements in automotive technology, PistonHeads.co.uk has something for everyone. The depth and accuracy of its content make it a valuable resource, not only for reading pleasure but also for expanding one’s automotive knowledge.

Engaging User Experience: Navigating a website should be seamless, and PistonHeads.co.uk excels in this aspect. The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring that visitors can quickly find the information they’re seeking. The well-organized categories and robust search functionality make exploring the platform a joy. Furthermore, the responsive design ensures that the experience remains consistent across devices, catering to users on both desktop and mobile platforms.

A Thriving Community: At the heart of PistonHeads.co.uk is its passionate community of automotive enthusiasts. The discussion forums are a testament to this, serving as a virtual hub where users from all walks of life can engage in meaningful conversations. Enthusiasts share their experiences, offer advice, and foster connections that extend beyond the digital realm. This sense of camaraderie enhances the overall experience, transforming PistonHeads.co.uk into more than just a website—it’s a thriving community united by a shared passion.

A Marketplace of Trust: PistonHeads.co.uk not only provides a platform for sharing knowledge but also facilitates practical interactions. The marketplace feature allows users to buy and sell vehicles, parts, and accessories in a trusted environment. This feature, built upon the foundation of the community’s credibility, adds real-world utility to the platform, making it a valuable tool for enthusiasts looking to make automotive-related transactions.

Continued Innovation: One hallmark of a successful platform is its ability to evolve with the times, and PistonHeads.co.uk has demonstrated this adaptability consistently. As the automotive industry advances, the platform remains at the forefront, keeping its audience informed about the latest trends, technologies, and developments. This commitment to staying current ensures that PistonHeads.co.uk remains relevant and invaluable to enthusiasts, regardless of how the automotive landscape changes.

Conclusion: In the world of online platforms, PistonHeads.co.uk shines brightly as a testament to automotive passion and excellence. With a legacy of quality, diverse content, engaging user experiences, and a thriving community, it continues to inspire and connect enthusiasts worldwide. As we celebrate PistonHeads.co.uk’s contributions to the automotive world, we also anticipate the continued growth and impact it will undoubtedly have on enthusiasts for years to come.

The best used fast estate cars for all budgets..

We’ve done some research and if you’ve got £3k for an estate car or £30k for an estate car there’s something for if you want a quick sporty one. Below are our favourites..

1. Ford Mondeo ST220 Estate:

• Performance: The Mondeo ST220 Estate is a performance-oriented version of the Ford Mondeo estate. It is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing around 220 horsepower. While it offers respectable performance, it might not be as powerful as some of the other options on your list.
• Features: As a sportier version of the Mondeo estate, the ST220 likely features sport-tuned suspension, performance-oriented features, and a more aggressive design.

2. Audi RS4 Avant:

• Performance: The Audi RS4 Avant is known for its impressive performance, powered by a high-output V6 or V8 engine. The most recent versions are equipped with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing over 400 horsepower, enabling quick acceleration and strong performance.
• Features: The RS4 Avant combines performance with luxury, offering advanced technology, a premium interior, and Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel drive system.

3. Mercedes E63 AMG Estate:

• Performance: The Mercedes E63 AMG Estate is a high-performance luxury estate car. It typically features a powerful V8 engine, such as the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing well over 500 horsepower in recent models. This results in exceptional acceleration and top-end performance.
• Features: The E63 AMG Estate combines luxury with extreme performance, offering a well-appointed interior, advanced technology, and AMG-specific enhancements for both aesthetics and performance.

4. BMW 535D Touring E61:

• Performance: The BMW 535D Touring E61 is part of BMW’s 5 Series estate lineup. It features a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine producing strong torque and good fuel efficiency. While it might not be as powerful as some other options on your list, it offers a balance between performance and economy.
• Features: BMW’s 5 Series estate typically includes a range of technology and luxury features, focusing on comfort, driving dynamics, and a premium driving experience.

5. Golf R Estate:

• Performance: The Golf R Estate is the performance-oriented version of the Volkswagen Golf estate. It is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 300 horsepower. This compact estate offers strong acceleration and nimble handling.
• Features: The Golf R Estate features Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, sport-tuned suspension, and various performance-oriented features, while maintaining the practicality of a compact estate car.

Comparison:

• Performance: The Audi RS4 Avant, Mercedes E63 AMG Estate, and Golf R Estate are likely to offer the highest performance levels among the options, with powerful engines and advanced drivetrains.
• Luxury: The Mercedes E63 AMG Estate stands out for its luxurious features and high-end interior.
• Practicality: Both the BMW 535D Touring E61 and Golf R Estate offer a good balance between performance and practicality, suitable for daily use and longer trips.
• Price: The price points for these estates can vary significantly, with the high-performance models typically being more expensive.
• Driving Dynamics: Each of these estates will offer different driving dynamics, with factors such as engine placement, drivetrain, and suspension tuning playing a role.

Ultimately, the choice will depend on your priorities, whether it’s raw performance, luxury features, practicality, or a balance of all these factors. It’s recommended to test drive these models and consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.

Ferrari…We love them..the sound,history, heritage

It seems hard to imagine that Ferrari hopes to produce an EV (electric vehicle) in 2025 and is going carbon neutral and hopes to attain its net-zero emission goals by 2030!

Around the streets of Mayfair in London Ferrari’s are on every corner and the sound between the buildings as they’re driving round is exquisite. Let’s compare a couple we spotted (ironically next to Ferrari Mayfair) yesterday…

Ferrari Roma V8:

1. Introduction: The Ferrari Roma is a luxury grand tourer introduced in 2020. It aims to combine elegant styling and high-performance capabilities, making it suitable for comfortable long-distance drives as well as spirited driving experiences.
2. Engine: The Roma is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine. In the version you mentioned (V8 620), it produces approximately 620 horsepower. This engine offers a balance between performance and refinement.
3. Performance: The Roma’s performance figures include a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time of around 3.4 seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph (320 km/h). It’s designed to offer a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience compared to some of Ferrari’s more aggressive models.
4. Design: The Roma’s design is characterized by its sleek and modern exterior lines, resembling a classic grand tourer while incorporating modern aerodynamic elements. It has a front-engine layout and a more refined appearance compared to some other Ferrari models.

Ferrari 488 GTB V8:

1. Introduction: The Ferrari 488 GTB was a mid-engine supercar produced from 2015 to 2019. It succeeded the Ferrari 458 Italia and brought significant advancements in terms of performance and technology.
2. Engine: The 488 GTB was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine. In the version you mentioned (V8 700), it produced around 700 horsepower. This engine was known for its incredible power output and responsiveness.
3. Performance: The 488 GTB’s performance was exceptional, with a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time of approximately 2.8 seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph (320 km/h). Its mid-engine layout and advanced aerodynamics contributed to its remarkable handling and agility.
4. Design: The 488 GTB featured a more aggressive and aerodynamic design compared to the Roma. Its mid-engine layout allowed for a more compact and purposeful exterior design, optimized for high-speed performance.

Comparison:

• Performance: The Ferrari 488 GTB V8 700 has higher horsepower and quicker acceleration compared to the Ferrari Roma V8 620. This is due to the 488 GTB’s more aggressive focus on performance.
• Layout: The Roma has a front-engine layout, providing a more traditional grand touring experience, while the 488 GTB has a mid-engine layout, contributing to its exceptional handling dynamics.
• Design: The Roma’s design is elegant and evokes a sense of modern luxury, whereas the 488 GTB’s design is more focused on aerodynamics and aggressive styling.
• Intended Purpose: The Roma is positioned as a more comfortable and versatile grand tourer, suitable for both daily driving and longer journeys. The 488 GTB is a hardcore mid-engine supercar designed for intense track and performance driving.

Both the Ferrari Roma and the Ferrari 488 GTB offer unique experiences, and the choice between them would depend on your preferences for driving style, performance, and overall design. It’s recommended to visit a Ferrari dealership or official sources for the most up-to-date information and a firsthand experience of these models.

Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto 2019

We’re often out and about around Central London and see some amazing car so we thought we’d blog about the great cars we see. Our first car was spotted in Mayfair. Lets find out a bit more about it..

The Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto, introduced in 2019, is a high-performance luxury SUV that marks Lamborghini’s foray into the SUV market. Renowned for its exceptional power and speed, the Urus combines the aesthetics of a luxury SUV with the heart of a sports car. This report provides an overview and analysis of the performance of the 2019 Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto.

Key Performance Metrics:

1. Engine: The Urus is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers an impressive 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
2. Acceleration: The Urus is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just 3.6 seconds, making it one of the fastest SUVs on the market. Its top speed is around 190 mph (305 km/h), showcasing its remarkable performance capabilities.
3. Handling and Drive Modes: The Urus features advanced all-wheel drive (AWD) and a torque-vectoring system that enhances its handling capabilities. It offers multiple drive modes, including Strada (street), Sport, Corsa (track), Sabbia (sand), Terra (off-road), and Neve (snow), allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s behavior to various driving conditions.
4. Braking: Equipped with large carbon-ceramic brakes, the Urus demonstrates impressive stopping power. Its braking performance is crucial given its high-speed capabilities.
5. Suspension: The Urus features an adaptive air suspension system that provides both comfort and sportiness. The system adjusts the ride height and damping characteristics based on the selected driving mode and road conditions.

Performance Comparison: Comparing the Urus’s performance metrics with other luxury SUVs and sports cars, it becomes evident that the Urus excels in terms of sheer power and speed:

• The Urus’s 641 horsepower outperforms many high-performance SUVs, putting it in a league of its own in terms of power.
• The acceleration time of 3.6 seconds is remarkable for an SUV, rivaling some sports cars.
• The top speed of 190 mph is again a feat that few SUVs can match.
• The Urus’s sophisticated drive mode system and advanced AWD technology contribute to its outstanding handling capabilities, which are more commonly associated with sports cars.

The 2019 Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto is a groundbreaking vehicle that redefined the possibilities of a luxury SUV. Its exceptional performance metrics, including a powerful engine, impressive acceleration, and top-tier handling, showcase its true sports car DNA. The Urus’s impact on the automotive market, both in terms of performance capabilities and market segment expansion, is undeniable. It remains an embodiment of Lamborghini’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design.