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I want my old car back!
27/09/2007 10:09 - (SA)
Georgina Guedes
I am not a car person. I like driving, and am aware of the difference in the experience of driving different vehicles, but on the whole I couldn't care less about system, performance, engine, bells and whistles.
I used to drive a Toyota Corolla. It was my first proper car, other than the ancient Citroen Pallas I inherited from my grandfather and with which I terrorised the streets of Joburg (and myself, frequently).
I didn't choose the Toyota. It was just a car that a very honest colleague of mine was selling. She was just going to trade it in, so she gave it to me at a brilliantly low price.
I took it for a drive and loved every second of the experience, so I bought it without ever having test driven another car.
I know you're thinking that after the Citroen, anything would have felt like an easy drive, but this isn't true. My mother's VW's accelerator was too springy. My boyfriend's Corsa's steering was too stiff. And in later years, when I was invited to test drive a BMW for a story, the raw power in the engine was a bit too much for me (athough I did think that maybe I could get used to that).
Out with the old
So, now that my beloved and desperately boring Toyota has been written off by a VW Polo that cruised through a stop street and into the side of me, I am in the market for a new second-hand (previously-loved?) car.
I tried to be intelligent about it, thinking I would try out various different makes of car, but the bewildering and boggling array made my head hurt, so I decided to stick with what I know - gloriously reliable Toyotas.
I suspect that since Toyota has provided me with one decent car, they have my loyalty for life. When I am in the market for a 4x4, I'll go with the Landcruiser; a bakkie, the Hi-Lux; a high-end luxury car, a Lexus. And I'd really love to own a Prius and help save the planet, but it's a little beyond my price range right now.
Although I'll be buying second-hand again, there are a couple of basics I know I want. Air-conditioning (essential), power steering, central locking, radio (CD player preferable).
The essentials
Since I'll be getting a newer car, I think that ABS brakes and airbags would be a nice upgrade from the old Corolla, and I am neither here nor there about electric windows.
What is essential for me is a bit of power. I'm not talking BMW, growling-like-a-tiger, throwing-me-back-in-my-seat-as-I-accelerate power, just enough to let me overtake trucks on an uphill at Christmas. My Corolla was a 1.6, and that seemed to do the trick.
Fortunately, all newer 1.6 Corollas seem to come standard with everything I wanted, so it was merely a case of deciding on my budget and seeing what I could get for it.
Of course, when I told the Automark sales person my absolute ceiling, she came back with cars priced at R5 000 more than that. When I reminded her of my ceiling, she told me that she had already discounted these cars considerably for me.
I test drove the car she wanted to sell me, and I am very excited at the prospect of owning one like it. But since I've seen the same car on offer at McCarthy for the price I am willing to pay, I'm sitting tight and not being dazzled by the lovely, sparkly-new dashboard and smooth transmission and gentle purr down the roads of Joburg.
It's difficult, though.
Georgina Guedes is a (carless) freelance journalist. She's very grateful to her friend Lucy who has lent her a car until she has navigated the dangerous waters of used-car purchasing.
Send your comments to Georgina.
Disclaimer: News24 encourages freedom of speech and the expression of diverse views. The views of columnists published on News24 are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent the views of News24.
- News24
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What
27/09/2007 10:51
So who exactly is messing around with you - very convienently you neglect to tell us all the difference in Kilometers between the 2 cars and jees lady, R5 000 above your ceiling, you must be kidding. Is this another article from a news24 reader? - ice |
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Huh?
27/09/2007 10:57
So, you know what you want (good for you!), and you've seen it at McCarthy's at the price you're willing to pay. So, remind me here: where exactly lies the problem? - Mark |
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Toyota
27/09/2007 10:57
What is this..? some kind of Toyota Marketing..? well if thats the case girl, then try the new Toy-o-ta Ya-risk...IT WILL TAKE YA BREATH AWAY...Permanantly. - Les Maada |
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Buying a car.
27/09/2007 10:59
Georgina I know that you have your heart set on a Toyota because of past experience. Nowadays there are so many brands available and most of them are as reliable if not more, than Toyotas. My advice would be to shop around and test drive as many as possible. Take a notebook with and make notes of the ones that interest you most. Dealers are more desperate for sales now than they where pre NCA so you have the upperhand. Squeeze them for every cent and get the best value for you rand. - Quinton |
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Toyota?zzzz
27/09/2007 11:01
I'd rather stab myself to death with a pebble than drive a Toyota. Without doubt the most boring, pragmatic car ever made. They're halfway between average. C'mon Georgina, you sound like you're hoping to slide gracefully into retirement. Other cars might be less reliable or less comfortable or less "normal" but at least you'll feel alive.
Remember, these are the guys that brought the world the Camry. - Barry |
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Keeping old things
27/09/2007 11:02
Good on yer...kid. I too enjoy the older things that were made with a bit of quality. My car, a voetsek old Nissan Maxima (new to me) is in regular use and handles mine roads in Mpumulanga better than the new "plasticky" junk that wobbles around on our roads today. Ask any 4 x 4 boffin which he would prefer if given a choice..an ancient landrover or one of the latest new models ??? My computer is old ! runs win 98 and has not let me down in the last 6 years. How many new models are up to that ? - Keeper of old things |
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Strange choice
27/09/2007 11:17
I also don't understand why anyone would swop a beautiful, classy car like a 1960's Citroen Pallas for a Toyota Corolla and still pay extra. - Michael |
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Used Cars
27/09/2007 11:27
Buying a second hand car can be tough, but if i can recommend anything, i would say use the internet. Pick a brand or two you like, and search for them. I found the prices to be considerably lower when buying a car in the east rand. You will be pleasantly surprised to the see the car you want for R150k go for R135k in the east. Dont buy because the price is right, buy it because you can drive it for 5 years, wont cost an arm and a leg, and will be safe. Good luck, i've just been through this!! - Jonathan |
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Buying a car
27/09/2007 11:29
Hi Georgina, I used to sell Toyotas a couple of years ago and would like to give you a couple of hints when buying. First, shop around. A lot. Here the internet is invaluable. McCarthy call a car, Carfind.co.za and many others will allow you to compare at your leisure. Check the Book price (Mead&McGrouther) of the vehicle you're interested in to check that you're not being ripped off. Allow for mileage. Extras on the vehicle (mag wheels etc) shouldn't influence the price too much. - Rouie |
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Buying a car (2)
27/09/2007 11:34
If you know somebody who's able to properly assess a n used vehicle, take them along. Otherwise, check for accident damage by opening the bonnet and checking if the radiator instruction stickers are all there. Check thouroughly for vehicle paint in places where it shouldn't be, eg on plastic parts. It's called overspray and is a sign of a visit to a panel beater. Also check if any painted bolts have been loosened especially in the engine compartment along the sides. TBC. - Rouie |
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Wrong decision....
27/09/2007 11:40
first of all, where is the "problem" stated in the introduction. secondly, i think you are making a huge mistake. Think about it, you have become a brand slave, falling into the trap, companies like toyota set for you, robbing you of your objectiveness. Thirdly, look at which cars get stolen/hi-jacked the most.... Toyota and VW.
And these 2 brands are in the lead by FAR! Putting yourself in harms way in the process? Possibly? Get over the sentimental feeling, and make a rational decision. - Think about it |
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Keeper of old things
27/09/2007 11:41
This is a bit off the topic but something you mentioned about using Windows 98. Has anyone bought a new pc lately with Vista preloaded on it. It's an absolute nightmare, and worst yet you cannot downgrade it to XP. It's like MS is trying to force it down the consumers throats. I Feel like throwing my new pc out the window. - MP4 |
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Buying a car (3)
27/09/2007 11:44
After that, check the foot pedals for signs of wear not consistent with the kilometer reading. If you buy something with, say 20 or 30 thousand Kilos, ther should be virtually no wear. Get the factory warranty transferred into your name. If they can't do it, buy somewhere else. DON'T take the one offered by the dealership. DON'T believe anyone until you've checked it with someone else. A very good idea for some peace of mind is an AA tested vehicle. Check with the AA, this can also be faked. TBC - Rouie |
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Buying a car (4)
27/09/2007 11:47
Try not to buy a car just because you like the colour. And lastly, take your time, don't let anybody rush you. Not even you. The more time you spend shopping for your new baby, the better the chances of getting a good deal and a car that you can drive and love for a long, long time. Keep us updated, I'd like to know how it went. - Rouie |
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Try a Clio
27/09/2007 11:52
I have been driving Clio's since 2001 - best car on the road in its range in my opinion! I know nothing about cars at all - but this is a very cute, very reliable, very economical and very safe car! - Ashley |
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Beloved Toyotas!
27/09/2007 12:06
I've just bought myself the brand-new Corolla. My previous two cars were the "older" shape Corolla. Before that a Toyota Tazz. And except for two other cars inbetween, Corollas before that. Boring? Maybe, but they are wonderful reliable cars. Btw, Georgina, please start .net again, we really miss that mag, with you as editor of course :-) - J.O |
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Georgina, you lose out big time thru brand loyalty. Dont be a sucker
27/09/2007 12:10
Almost made the same mistake. Had a toy in the past. Nice car, enjoyable to drive. Decide to buy a runx. Test drove it, was reasonly happy and placed an order. A smart friend of mine was also in the market for a car. She test drove many cars and least impressed with da runx. after some convincing she got me to drive other cars as well. Most of the current cars were better than Runx.Bought a Focus and loving it. Don't restrict yourself. - shiner |
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LOL
27/09/2007 12:21
lol MP4! - Grim |
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RE: wrong decision
27/09/2007 12:21
the reason toyota and vw get stolen/hijacked so much, is because THERE ARE SO MANY OF THEM. to calc your probability of being a victim, divide the number stolen by the number sold. so yes, there is safety in numbers. - mm |
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Test drive other brands
27/09/2007 12:33
Hi Georgina. After much searching i bought myself a Hyundai Getz a few months back. All i can say at R105 K its extrememly good value for money and the price includes aircon, PS, CD central locking! The 1.4 is decently powered and it takes me everywhere. Toyotas are reliable but i think they do cost more to service than some cars. The hyundai comes with service plan included as well. - sudika |
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Shiner....
27/09/2007 12:39
Shiner - I also bought a Focus! And I drove all the brands, even if the price tage was above the limit i set for myself. If you are looking for value for money, the New shape Focus is the way to go. Its economical, its good looking, nice luxuries, good performance, affordable, cheap to maintain, readily available parts, cheaper services the list just goes on. And ford was the last car i drove, as i never was a fan.Even the Top Gear team thinks its awesome! - Think about it... |
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Georgina's new car
27/09/2007 12:42
Georgina, you are mistaken about the Prius - it's is on the wrong side of the "environmental debt" scale. If you want to do the right thing for the planet then ride a motorcycle! It's still the most fun way to get around. - CooP |
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Toyota
27/09/2007 12:43
I will rather push a burnt out golf than ever drive a toy! - Dale |
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Second hand
27/09/2007 12:52
Boring pointless article. Of no value. Found the comments more helpful being a first time buyer myself.... - Me |
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get a toyota gli exec twincam
27/09/2007 12:59
I think the twincam would be perfect for it, its toyota, the performance 1.6, with elect windows, power steering air-con and leather seats.
Second hand ones go for around R45 000 these days and are in pretty good condition at that price. - saturnz |
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new car
27/09/2007 13:19
Hello Georgina!!
... buy a VW!! *s* - Jack |
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Still going
27/09/2007 13:26
2L 1997 model, 260 k on the clock, repairs - 1 rubber CV boot, 1 clutch at 200 k. Daily city driving. 1 rattle (bad road). FSH. Going like a sewing machine. - Camry |
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Toyota
27/09/2007 13:30
Georgina, you can do better than a Toyota. They are soooooo boring. Can't think that you of all people will drive one?? - You can do better |
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MP4
27/09/2007 13:38
Funny, I've never had problems with any of the Windows versions...... but then I've never used any of them. There are much better options out there. Good luck Dude. - havoc |
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mm got it wrong
27/09/2007 13:54
Many ex Hijackers have been interviewed and they all say 90% of the time cars are not hijacked at random, but based on orders. So there is no link to the number of toyotas/VWs on the roads. One is definitely at greater risk with a VW/toy. - shiner |
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Buy a Ford
27/09/2007 14:02
Just buy a Ford Ikon. They never get stolen, hardly use petrol, never brake down, have all the luxuries mentioned and are cheap as hell second hand. They are also quite boring and practical, but hey, you drove a Toyota and loved it :P The new Ikon is also out now, which is slightly better than the old one looks wise. (PS I would prefer a BMW or some Sandton plaything, but, money is a factor...) - Prieur |
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Toyota
27/09/2007 14:17
Toyota is the most simple and boring car on our roads at least a TATA comes with airbags, electric windows and ABS. These days entry-level cars come with at least 4 airbags, You'll be lucky to have 2 airbags in a Toyota, TOYOTA is the last manufacturer besides VW that don't include Airbags and ABS as standard in their cars, so yes you have better chance of dying in a Tazz than in a Citroen or Fiesta, Very Pathetic! - Engineer |
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Value for Money
27/09/2007 14:41
Go Hyundai...you get everything you looking for, it's reliable and very comfortable. You won't find a car with all the features a Hyundai has for the money they asking for.
ps.Toyota is for people with no taste... - Breitling Boyz |
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re: get a toyota gli exec twincam
27/09/2007 14:50
What the hell are you smoking...where are you going to find 1 nowadays that hasn't been driven like a race car...All the youngsters drive the crap out of the Twincams and you know this... Plus to steal a toyota is flippin' easy... - Breitling Boyz |
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Second hand
27/09/2007 14:59
Hi Georgina,
Toyota's are practical, reliable but overpriced! It has been ingrained into most Charous, including me, that Toyota's are cars for life - if you want to save money in the long run -little maintenance - the engine will run for years but the body may fall apart. My opinion is that the notion of only Toyotas being reliable is wrong. Most of the modern cars are reliable and offer value for money in the price range of a 1.6 Toyota corolla. Hondas are more reliable and stylish. - Branded |
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keeper of old things
27/09/2007 15:22
You can downgrade your PC from vista; just make sure that you have the XP equivalent Drivers and at least SP2 - Dominique |
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Get what you feel comfortable with
27/09/2007 15:31
Typically most of the anti-Toyota comments are from guys. Go with what you feel good with. I personally have only owned and driven Opels and VW (and I lust after GTi or BMW 335i), but there ain't nothin' wrong with Toyota. Not everyone is into the whole performance/ego thing. Don't let others think for you. - Mart |
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RE: Dale
27/09/2007 15:46
Dale, you're right - if you own a golf, you will always push it! - ice |
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