City drive

WHICH CAR?

I am interested in buying a mid-size sedan, choosing between the Chevy Optra 1.6 and the Honda City. I test drove both and the City seemed to be like a true city car "� light and easier to handle.

The Optra is obviously more spacious and has a big car look and feel, while the City seems to be a little cramped inside. Fuel efficiency comparisons are not very important to me but I am slightly unsure due to the Optra being a Daewoo and a Korean car.

I somehow have more respect for the Japanese machine. I usually drive about 1,000 km/ month, mostly in the city, going out, say, once in two months on the expressway. Incidentally, I have been driving a Lancer.

Mahesh, via email

If we were you, we would decide based on two things "� do you have a driver "� if yes, then the Optra makes more sense, and do you really need all the space "� if yes, then again, the Optra makes sense.

This car's Korean parentage shouldn't be a cause of worry at all as it is a car that is sold globally today and even badged a Suzuki in America. it is reliable, safe and quite well built too.

But if you want an easy-to-drive car that is light on your pocket as well as reliable, then the Honda City is a better bet.

First bet

I have been planning to buy a car, but don't know which one to go for. I stay in a joint family and am looking for a car to ferry four adults and four kids.

I will be using this vehicle to travel 40-45 km, two or three times a week and occasionally on weekends for some long distance trips. My budget is Rs 3-5 lakh and the car has to be economical and low on maintenance.

My dilemma is whether to buy a new or used car. Friends have been suggesting a second-hand Esteem or Qualis (diesel) as I am still learning to drive "� what do you say?

Manoj Dadia, via email

You need a large car. You are a learner, so it better easy to drive "� the Qualis (ideally second hand since you won't get a new one in your budget "� low mileage, private owned) should suit you well.

It's easy to drive despite its size and has diesel economy as a bonus too. Any smaller a car and your passengers, especially the children will be cramped "� not a good idea. Drive carefully and get used to the vehicle!

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