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A budget of just $10,000 to $12,000 can buy you an excellent used van. Yes, it is true that most of these workhorses have led exactly the kind of tough life you'd expect, but it is equally true that most have received regular service, if only to ensure they don't break down at work. What you can't expect is immaculate body work and a driver's seat in new condition. Typically, vans cover much higher distances than cars.

Used Mercedes-Benz Vito

When the Mercedes-Benz Vito went on sale locally in January 1998 it set a new standard of car-like drivability for the van market. Yes, I know that many Volkswagen enthusiasts might beg to differ, but the Vito really did mark a turning point for this automotive genre. Don't confuse the Vito with the Sprinter, early examples of which fall into the van ordinaire category.

In 2004 the second generation Vito models were released. While not all that different in appearance they were rear wheel drive in contrast to the earlier vans. Naturally, Mercedes people claimed that this conferred numerous advantages but in practice few if any front drive Vito owners had found anything to complain about. Improved traction when climbing steep hills heavily laden is perhaps the most obvious advantage. Why did Mercedes-Benz make the change? For reasons of economies of scale - specifically the capacity to use more componentry from its sedan cars.

Around $10K does seem to be the point at which you can buy a good Vito with a roadworthy certificate and some history. You may find a 2000 or 2001 model with about 160,000 kilometres. Some have had extensive repairs including a reconditioned engine. The more Mercedes-Benz dealerships stamps you can find in the service book, the better. It would be nice to report that Vitos never give trouble and cost nothing to run but, like all cars, they demand regular maintenance. Never judge by kilometres alone because many is the 250,000 km vehicle that is superior to the neglected 150,000 km same-looking one.

Volkswagen Transporter

The Volkswagen Transporter commands a cult following. You can find much older T3 models from the early 1990s costing as much as later T4s (introduced here in September 2004). Bargains are available but you need to shop carefully. One especially desirable variant of the T4 range is the turbodiesel 2.5 litre five-cylinder five speed manual. It is a very fast and responsive van.

Used Citroën Berlingo and Holden Combo vans

The smaller Citroën Berlingo and Holden Combo vans will appeal to buyers looking for an entry level compact van. Launched in 1996, the original Combo had a 1.4 cylinder engine developing a meagre 44 kW of power and 103 Nm of torque but quickly proved popular with couriers. Its first real rival was the Berlingo, which arrived in August 1999. Citroën also used a 1.4 litre engine but this one managed 58 kW and 111 Nm. The Berlingo was impressive not only for its spaciousness but also for its excellent ride.

Both are incredibly fuel efficient and are thus worthy of consideration by someone looking for cheap transport and not interested in hauling loads. But when you have a van at your disposal, it's amazing how often it comes in handy.

Although you will readily find examples of both vans below $5000, you really need to spend about $6000 to get one in good nick. Check to make sure that airconditioning is (a) fitted and (b) working.

At this end of the market, where serviceability is so important, I recommend avoiding metallic colours which are more difficult and expensive to match. Boring as it may sound, white is probably the best bet. There's nothing like a set of smart alloy wheels to enliven the appearance of a little van.