READERS’ QUESTIONS

QUESTION I’ve been offered a 1991 Jaguar XJS for £6k. I’m tempted by its looks and V12. Am I mad? Daniel Finnegan, Reading ANSWER

What a dilemma – although it sounds like you’ve got the measure of what you’re up against. On the one hand, you have a defining 1990s coupé oozing old-school appeal and potent performance. And on the other? It could be a money pit. Get someone who knows what they are doing to give it a thorough inspection and pitch in with your eyes wide open. JH

QUESTION I like a bit of wheeling and dealing but have bought a few duds. What’s your best bit of used car buying advice? John Jakobs, via email ANSWER

Ring the doorbell. If you’re hopelessly addicted to the classifieds, then reduce the risk of being ripped off as much as possible. Meet the seller at home and you have an instant connection: they’re confident enough to have you on their turf and you get to suss them out a bit. JH

QUESTION I want a quality, economical, nononsense city car. What do you recommend? Michael Neeve, via email ANSWER

Start your search with the Hyundai i10, which is well priced but laden with kit and decent to drive. The closely related Kia Picanto is worth considering too. A slightly left-field choice is the Suzuki Celerio, which is cheap and returns famously good economy figures. JH