Car rental vs buying second hand

[blueparrot]

I will soon be living in TRNC for around 9 months a year, returning to UK in the summer.

I’ve been looking at the cost of car rental compared with buying second hand. Was leaning towards rental due to less hassle (and no insurance, tax, servicing). Was hoping to find an inexpensive option.

I asked some rental companies to quote for a small automatic car, e.g. a Ford Focus.

Across the full 9 months (excluding summer), the average daily rates are coming in at GBP 11.50 to 12. Lower in low season, higher in high season, but that is the average.

I would therefore be spending around £3,200 total for the 9 months. More than I had hoped.

So I am now considering buying a car second hand. This is well out of my comfort zone. I am—how shall I say—automotively challenged, and would not embark on this particular adventure unadvised.

I would appreciate (1) any comments/warnings/reactions you may have, and (2) recommendations of a knowledgeable, HONEST person (any nationality) who might steer me through these rocky shoals. I would of course pay for the time of someone who knows what they are doing.

I have read the previous threads and so know the approx. cost of insurance, tax, MOT etc.

Thank you!

[danceswithwolves]

Hi Blueparrot, Ok to help you make a decision, I used to hire cars here when I came on holiday for a month which was fine.
When I retired 5 years ago I now spend 9 months here So here is the sum.
Car mitsibushi lancer 2006 60,000 miles cost £6,000 lovely car had it 5 years no problem, road tax 350lire per year ins fully comp/+3rd party £240, servicing cost aprox 350lire per year.
The car at present is prob worth aprox £4,000.
So in effect at this point in time if I were to sell the car now my 5 year motoring cost are, taking into accout all items up and deducting car price now my 5 year outlay would be approx. £5,000 ( a max fig could be a bit less)
So your hire costs for 5 year based on your quote ( which I suspect is a bit low Average £15 week) any 5 times your estimate = £15,000 hope this answer you question.
All people here buy unless only here for a short time.
Regards
dancewithwolves

[Mab]

Try Bob at Tiga Trading, he's a star! My parents bought their car from them a few years ago and the service and aftercare is great

[meldy]

I also recommend Tiga - have not been there for a couple of years but have bought 3 cars from them and been happy with the service from them. Friends who have used them have also been happy. At least worth giving them a visit.

[ttoli]

Another vote for Tiga , have had three cars from them now and wouldn't touch anyone else , whilst there are some good mechanics here , the bad far outweigh the few http://www.tigatrading.com/

[Murphy]

Do you have to have a yearly car insurance or could you have a 3/6 month option ?

[blueparrot]

Thanks, I will try Tiga.

And thanks to danceswithwolves for the very helpful analysis.

[Steamerpoint]

Good evening

If you are considering purchasing a second hand car, I am selling my daughters i10 which is in immaculate condition under 2 years old at an excellent price of £7495. The only reason for selling is that she has returned to Uni in the UK and wants to purchase a car there.

Full details can be found under 'motors' or click on the following link.

http://www.kibkomnorthcyprusforum.com/v ... 34&t=26600


If you would like any further info please pm me.

[tigatrading]

Blue Parrot you have a private message.