Bargains part 1

Check out our collection of cars that broke the mould when new but are now bargains as they turn three.

2007 was vintage year for cars. Some of the best new models in recent memory went on sale that year. Some were amazing, setting the standard that all subsequent cars had to beat and winning prizes at our Car of the Year Awards in the process.

These stunners will be celebrating their third birthday in 2010, making them great news for bargain-hunters theyre now much more affordable to buy, and far easier to find on the used market.

So, if youre looking for a super used car thats great value, check out these brilliant third birthday bargains.

Ford MondeoBest buy 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec 5dr
Prices from 10,060
Road tax 150
Average economy 47.9mpg
The latest Mondeo combines the usability and excellent driving characteristics of the previous model with up-to-date styling and greater comfort and refinement. Its one of the best cars available, and was our Family Car of the Year in 2008. Soon, youll be able to find more Mondeos outside of the usual Ford dealers, as lots of ex-fleet and lease cars find their way into car supermarkets and independent garages over the next 12 months.

Mercedes Benz C-Class
Best buy C220 CDI Elegance
Prices from 17,000
Road tax 175
Average economy 35.8mpg
This C-Class is thoroughly modern, spacious, comfortable and engaging to drive. Its right up there with the best compact executives, yet still retains Mercedes famed understated style. Elegance models bring you not only a smooth, refined ride, but also opulence in the form of wood trim and lots of equipment. Metallic paint is a must to ensure you get the best resale values, and look out for cars that have desirable leather upholstery.

Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
Best buy 1.6 HDi SX
Prices from 9995
Road tax 150
Average economy 47.9mpg
The Grand C4 Picassos credentials are impeccable. It has been our favourite MPV for the past three years, providing a winning blend of great design, ease of use and flexibility. This seven-seater will suit most families needs perfectly. Theres already a good selection of cars available on the used market, but expect numbers to swell in the next six months especially at car supermarkets, where prices will be keenest.

Audi A5
Best buy 3.0 TDI Quattro
Prices from 25,500
Road tax 215
Average economy 39.2mpg
The A5 Coup still retains an air of exclusivity. A punchy, refined diesel engine and composed handling make it a fine grand tourer. Its well equipped, with leather upholstery and climate control, and its worth paying extra for the 3.0 model over the 2.7, because it has four-wheel drive and isnt much dearer to run.

Kia Cee'd
Best buy 1.4 GS
Prices from 7100
Road tax 125
Average economy 46.3mpg
The Kia Ceed isnt as well known as a Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra, but its a spacious, sturdy small family car thats also great value. Theres a good choice of used cars available, and prices should fall further as more appear. Even though youre buying a three-year-old car, the Ceed will still have four years left on its seven-year warranty.