Car expert reveals 10 best used motors for first-time drivers all under £5,000 (2024)

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Abarth 595 Competizion read more on motors Ford Fiesta ST Most read in Motors Seat Leon Cupra R Honda Civic Type R EP3 Mini Hatch John Cooper Works VW Golf R32 Renault Megane RS Mazda3 MPS Alfa Romeo Giuletta QV Audi S3 READ MORE SUN STORIES The top 10 best used motors for first-time drivers all under £5,000

A CAR expert has revealed the top ten best used motors for first-time drivers - all costing under £5,000.

JB, who runs CarsWithJB on YouTube, ran through the most "highly underrated" motors drivers could find on the market on his channel.

Abarth 595 Competizion

This old-school hatchback-style motor is a fan favourite for first-time drivers.

It has 1.4litre turbocharged engine and can go from 0-60 in just over seven seconds.

Although it's not particularly quick, it does feel it "given its size".

The several different specs for this car allow motorists to choose from a variety of examples.

Ford Fiesta ST

The Ford Fiesta ST has depreciated massively since its release in 2013.

JB added: "You can find it listed anywhere around the £4,000 mark."

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Under the hood lies a 1.6litre engine with 179bhp.

The car expert claimed this was "pretty punchy for Ford's entry-level performance hatchback".

Models made before 2014 were recalled following a cylinder head cracking issue.

Those looking to get their hands on a used Ford Fiesta should check that it is well looked after as they have a reputation for being "boy racer cars".

Seat Leon Cupra R

The production of this timeless motor ended in 2006, however, "it has remained a highly rated car, receiving recognition still to this day".

It featured in Autocar's poll for the top ten best hatchbacks of all time, according to JB.

The iconic car hosts the famous bam engine, a 1.8litre with 221bhp.

Seat Leon's are on offer for around £4,500 on Autotrader.

Those willing to shell out £5,000 can purchase a 2004 model with around 100,000 miles on the clock.

Honda Civic Type R EP3

This was one of the most popular hatchbacks to land on the UK market, according to the car expert.

The Honda Civic Type R has a whopping 2litre engine which boasts 197bhp and can go from 0-60 in just over six seconds.

These are available on Autotrader for as little as £3,600.

Mini Hatch John Cooper Works

Inspired by the Challenger car, used in racing series around the world, this Mini hatchback has incredible handling.

It packs a punch for first-time drivers, thanks to its 1.6litre turbocharged engine.

Available on the market for just under £4,000, this motor is a fan favourite for Mini fans.

VW Golf R32

This was the last Golf model to feature a 3.2litre V6 engine.

It has the same 0-60 as the Mini and has 256bhp underneath the hood.

These aggressive-looking cars would set you back £4,000 from Autotrader.

A 2006 model with roughly 88,000 miles on it, would cost around the £5,000 mark.

Renault Megane RS

The second-generation Renault Magane RS twice held the lap record at the ring.

Unfortunately, those models are outside the £5,000 price range.

However, the base model isn't and features a 2litre turbocharged engine, going from 0-60 in under six seconds.

Its exterior gives it a "real racer vibe" and is fitted with aluminium pedals.

This is the perfect motor for those looking to test their driving abilities on a race track, according to JB.

These Renault's start at around £4,750, making it one of the most expensive on this list.

Mazda3 MPS

Despite it having two distinctive generations both shared the same 2.3litre turbocharged engine.

JB said: "It makes 256bhp, taking it to 60 in 5.9 seconds.

"This is pretty good for a car that goes so far under the radar."

The second-generation hatchback was fitted with improved brake discs, which made it more sought after than its counterpart.

These are available on Autotrader for as little as £3,500 if you're after the first-generation Mazda.

With the second-gen pushing the £5,000 mark.

Alfa Romeo Giuletta QV

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV faced a lot of backlash from drivers who felt it didn't deliver the proper hatchback experience.

"Despite the flack, it does have pretty insane specs thanks to its 1.7litre turbocharged engine," JB added.

The sleek motor is currently on the market for just under £4,000, with £5,000 buying you a 2010 model.

Audi S3

These cars have depreciated a lot in recent years.

The 2litre turbocharged engine is available on Autotrader for just £3,500.

It boasts a whopping 261bhp, which makes it the highest on this list, going from 0-60 in just over five seconds.