Some older cars 'are more reliable'

Buying the most expensive or newest car may not necessarily mean individuals are getting behind the wheel of the most reliable vehicle.

In fact, a survey by automotive specialist Warranty Direct showed some older models have greater resilience than more modern motors.

The company noted people buying a Jaguar XJ Series that dates back to between 1997 and 2003 are 21 per cent less likely to break down than those who purchased the same car after this period.

Among other vehicles in which the same pattern is true are the Renault Espace and Vauxhall Zafira, which come with an 11 per cent reduced risk of failure if they were released before 2003 and 2005 respectively.

Managing Director of Warranty Direct Duncan McClure Fisher said: "Buying new may be the most desirable option when it comes to purchasing a car but it isn't always the most cost-effective route."

The amount drivers are going to have to pay out on their automobile is likely to be an important factor to them at the moment, as it was recently revealed in the RAC's Cost of Motoring Index that the expense of owning and using a vehicle on UK roads surged 13 per cent in the 12 months to November 2011.

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