What Car? Q&A - What can replace my Puma?

Q: I currently have a Puma and want a similar car, but a step up from what I currently have.

I have no idea where to start – can you give me a few ideas of which second hand cars would be ideal? I'll be the only driver, but I would like some sort of a small back seat if possible and a reasonable boot.
Tiffany Hardie-Evans

A: There's no direct alternative to the Puma, really, but, depending on your budget the following might suit.

The Mini seems an obvious candidate. Whether or not you like its image, the Mini remains hugely desirable. Prices are rather high, starting at around £7000 for a 2001 One or £7800 for the more powerful Cooper. The upside is that when you come to sell, it'll still be worth a sizeable chunk of what you paid.

It's great fun to drive, and has a high-quality cabin and huge image. Space is limited, however, with cramped rear seats and a tiny boot.

Or how about a Mazda RX-8? Like the Puma, it's a hoot to drive and it also looks the business. The interior is definitely a cut above for quality and it's practical, too. The rear seats have good space for two adults (with access through backwards-opening rear doors) and the boot is a decent size.

Prices start at around £14,000 for a 2003 car, but beware of the running costs – the RX-8 has a thirst for petrol and oil.

Alternatively, you could look at an Audi TT – it still turns heads and the interior is a work of art. The drive doesn't really match the looks, but there's plenty of grip and the turbocharged engines provide decent pace.

The boot is reasonably practical, but again rear head- and legroom are severely compromised. The oldest and cheapest cars from 1999 can now be had for a shade under £10,000.

The BMW 3 Series coupe has to be worth a look, too. Sure, it looks pretty much like a three-door version of the saloon, but beyond that there's a rewarding drive, some cracking engines, good space and fine quality. Prices range between £9000 for a four-year old model and £17,000 for a newer, more powerful model.