MC101, dont call me stupid. Im willing to bet im a damned sight better qualified to comment on this than you. I have a degree in mechanical engineering, 25 years experience in the motor trade and run my own successful bodyshop. I look after all sorts of german, french, italian, you name it , cars for people including a porsche cayman for a very famous tv chef, a collection of classic and modern ferraris for another customer, and various maseratis, astons etc. I was also entrusted with the paintwork on 2 very rare Bugattis with a combined value of 3.5 million quid one of which went to the states and came 2nd in the Pebble Beach concours d'elegance and is now on display in the dutch national motor museum.
I DO know what im talking about!
Just because you drive a car, doesnt make you an expert.
As far as depreciation is concerned, the guy was asking about cars in the 5K price range so it makes sense to buy something that hasnt held its value cos you can get an awful lot more for your money. Thats why i run an 03 mitsubishi shogun sport and not a land rover discovery. 4k for the shogun, 12k for the equivalent spec landrover.
Sorry, rant over. DONT call me stupid. Im special!