Which? Car has commented that there are set to be "bargains galore" in the used car market this year as supply outstrips demand.
Recent research by the magazine found that eight per cent of drivers intend to buy a used car this year, with just three per cent stating an aim to buy a new one.
Showrooms and forecourts will be fighting over the four per cent of floating voters who will change their car in 2009 but are still undecided on whether to choose new or used.
The issue of depreciation should weigh heavily on would-be buyers’ minds. It is a fact of motoring life that most cars lose thousands of pounds of value the moment they are driven away from a showroom by a new owner.
Which? quotes the example of a 2008 Vauxhall Vectra losing 53 per cent of its original value after a year on the road.
Richard Headland, editor, Which? Car, commented: "You could say there’s never been a better time to buy a car. The downturn has thrown the car industry into turmoil and that means there are some amazing car deals available – whether you’re looking to buy new or used.
Written by Roxy Moran
