Has it become more difficult to find a car that's right for you?

What's the best car for you? Answer, the car that fits your purpose and purse. Then you can look at safety, performance etc. The problem is car prices are rising, car insurance is rocketing as are fuel prices.

Let's imagine a small car is all you need. You decide on a Suzuki Splash for a little added versatility plus they have ESP as standard. So it fits your purpose.

Now how much have you got in your purse. Here's a very rough guide to what it might cost per year.

• Depreciation £1,500
• Interest £400 to £600, call it £500
• Car insurance £500 - depends on the drivers.
• VED £100
• Servicing and replacement parts £500
• Fuel 12,000 miles per annum £2,000

Total about £5,000 per annum, £100 per week.

The only real way you can save money is to make a car insurance comparison every year. It could save you hundreds.

There's not a lot you can do about car depreciation apart from hold onto the car. That way you could save on interest costs. Cars are reliable and durable today so you may not be at risk with maintenance costs.

It's the cost of fuel that kills it. £2,000 is 20% of the total cost.

Regards
Ralph