Hi all, am looking for a second car for my wife, I drive a vrs which she loves, have found a 1.9 tdi fabia sport or she likes the look of a new 1.2 tsi fabia Monte Carlo. We test drove both cars (not strictly true, Monte Carlo not available so had to drive 1.2 tsi dsg) and there is little between them in power but the sport had less roll in the corners. The Monte Carlo would be a touch more expensive and we would have to give it back in 3 years but would probably be more fun in the meantime or the sport would be cheaper but we would own it in 3 years. Don't k ow what to do!

The montey is lovely! But the 1.9 tdi is gutsy....and with a black roof and wheels you'll have half a montey!

If you can save a few quid get the sport. I'm guessing the montey will have a larger lump sum after 3 years to pay off. Really depends up to you!

I would go 1.9 tdi, it will be a better ownership experience IMO.

and retain it's value nicely at the end.

Good Luck mate.

Sorry I should saythe sport is a 2008 model and the Monte is new

If you are doing the petrol/diesel maths you need to work out if the number of miles the car will be driven over 3 years is enough, bearing in mind fuel price differential (6p a litre here at the moment) against economy and other costs. Alternatively you just test drive them both and go with the 1 that feels best to you

1.9tdi IMO

resale value will be better and that should factor into your decision as much as hertsnminds petrol/diesel maths

you've already said that you will have to give the Monte back after three years and probs only be left with about £2000 capital

so get the diesel that hopefully will prove more reliable, be lighter on fuel and if something unfortunate happens it will be easier to sell if you have to liquidate your assets.

better for overtaking too, and REMAP it to 130bhp!!!!!

The sport springs are only a £105 option if that helps?!

In 3 years time the Sport will be six years old and starting to cost more to run. Dont kid yourself on residual it will be worth next to nothing, it is pre face lift and the lights alone are reason to not go for it.

Black's arguement is invalid as you are clearly not taking into account that they have to give back the Monte after 3yrs whereas they will outright own the Sport by that point.

and i would guess it would be worth £2700 minimum in 3yrs time, not i don't know how wealthly you are Black but that is certainly not 'next to nothing' for me!