I think of any car that's younger than me as being modern, but then the youngest car I've ever owned is 13 years older than me. Every so often, my step-dad asks me when i'm going to get myself a relaible car. My answer is that I already have one
The only issues with the Amazon are rust, which whilst under control, does need sorting out soon. However, the body is in great shape for a 38 year old car that is unrestored, and has such high mileage. I've seen several 'R' reg cars with rust bubbling through (one was an R plate Mk3 Golf with a soon to be hole on the sill ), and I've seen a P reg Escort with far worse rear wheelarches ;D
Personally, a modern car doesn't make financial sense. I don't see the point in buying a car that will depreciate so much. My Amazon was bought for £2500 (I think) and is worth perhaps £1500 - £2000 - not bad for 11 1/2 years. The bills over the years probably add up to quite a bit, but certainly a lot less than if I'd bought a brand new car and had it serviced by the local main dealer. As for parts, new windscreen - £80, new radiator, same again, tyres (good quality) - £50 each.
Most of all, it has lived up to the Amazon reputation of reliability, giving plenty of warning of any impending problems, and it's ability to always get home.
The only issues with the Amazon are rust, which whilst under control, does need sorting out soon. However, the body is in great shape for a 38 year old car that is unrestored, and has such high mileage. I've seen several 'R' reg cars with rust bubbling through (one was an R plate Mk3 Golf with a soon to be hole on the sill ), and I've seen a P reg Escort with far worse rear wheelarches ;D
Personally, a modern car doesn't make financial sense. I don't see the point in buying a car that will depreciate so much. My Amazon was bought for £2500 (I think) and is worth perhaps £1500 - £2000 - not bad for 11 1/2 years. The bills over the years probably add up to quite a bit, but certainly a lot less than if I'd bought a brand new car and had it serviced by the local main dealer. As for parts, new windscreen - £80, new radiator, same again, tyres (good quality) - £50 each.
Most of all, it has lived up to the Amazon reputation of reliability, giving plenty of warning of any impending problems, and it's ability to always get home.