Used Mondeo vs Laguna
TV’s Mike picks from two of the UK’s top-selling second-hand family cars. So, would he buy a Laguna or a Mondeo?
For a car that offers space, pace and luxury, look no further than a good, old-fashioned family motor. And this week, I’ve paired up two of the most popular models around.
The volume-selling Ford Mondeo defines this sector of the market, and in third-generation guise it needs no introduction. It’s up against the pretty second-generation Renault Laguna, which offers style and luxury in equal measure. Both these cars have recently been replaced by new models, meaning there are a lot of them around – and they’re as cheap as chips.
So, for the moment, forget all about gimmicky MPVs and glitzy soft-roaders, because a second-hand hatchback serves up all the space you will ever need – and it won’t break the bank, either. Besides, let’s be honest, when was the last time you saw a seven-seater with every single one of its chairs being used, or an off-roader getting seriously muddy?
What you get
Trim levels are simple to understand for both cars. Entry-level Fords wear LX badging, and air-con comes as standard. Zetec variants have alloys, rather than plastic wheel covers, and Ghias get a CD autochanger. Ghia X and later Titanium examples are the best, though, because they also feature leather upholstery.
As with the Ford, air-con is offered on all Lagunas, while trims range from low-spec Expression and Dynamique to Privilège and the luxurious Initiale specifications.
If it’s space you’re after, the Ford is top of the pops. Our five-door hatchback has a whopping 500-litre boot, with the Renault managing only 430 litres. And there’s more bad news for the Laguna if you look at Auto Express’s Driver Power 2007 reliability and satisfaction survey.
While the Mondeo finished mid-table in 56th place in the Top 100, the Renault was ranked a lowly 83rd. Still, safety-conscious customers will be impressed by the French car’s five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests – one more star than the Mondeo.
On the road
These cars highlight the very different characters of the companies which built them. After only a few minutes behind the wheel of the Renault, it’s clear the focus was on comfort and refinement. The result is a soft ride, with more body roll in the bends.
Switch to the Ford, and you’ll notice its sharper steering and body control. The maker has a reputation for producing cars that are great to drive, and the Mondeo only enhances that.
The Ford can even match its French competitor’s excellent diesel engines, thanks to its TDCi powerplants. They combine punchy performance with excellent economy – although if you can’t afford one, or simply don’t cover the mileage to justify the outlay, the petrol line-up is also better. Even the entry-level 1.8-litre engine is more than up to the job.
Prices
The cheapest Mondeos start at less than £2,000, but you’ll be limited in choice to a high-mileage version. A decent 2000 X-reg 1.8-litre LX will be about £3,000, with around 65,000 miles on the clock. The bigger 2.0-litre engine is only worth a few hundred pounds more on early models.
Go for the diesel and you’ll need to dig deeper, because the excellent TDCi – which arrived in 2001 – starts from around £4,000. That money will buy you a 130bhp Zetec version, but the older TDdi oil-burner is cheaper, with prices kicking off from £3,200. Watch out for saloon examples if you are after a hatchback: they look similar from the outside, but the booted version isn’t as practical.
The Renault is similarly cheap. Only £2,000 is enough for an entry-level 1.6-litre petrol model, but you’ll need £3,000 to bag yourself an average-mile 2.0 version. It’s worth it, as the 1.6-litre is a bit weedy in the Laguna. The best cars are the 1.9-litre dCi oil-burners, and the cheapest examples with average miles start at £3,000.
Problem points
Even though the Ford is a solid piece of kit, you still need to do your homework. For a start, the front and rear door seals often fail at low mileages, leaking water into the cabin. Fortunately, replacements only cost around £30. Other problem areas include the rear suspension; the subframe bushes wear out. You can tell if yours need replacing if you hear excessive noise.
Both cars are popular with high-mile fleet drivers, so check for stonechips on the bonnet and windscreens. The Laguna isn’t quite as tough as the Mondeo; electric faults are common, while interior trim is easily damaged and will show any long-term neglect.
On the outside, the Renault’s alloy wheels look good, but some of the more adventurous designs can buckle – you’ll notice juddering steering and uneven tyre wear if they have. Finally, beware of sluggish 1.9 dCi models. A sticky exhaust gas recirculation valve could cause this; if it goes unfixed, it could destroy the engine!
Verdict
For me, there’s no contest here. The Laguna looks great and it’s comfortable, too, but the Mondeo is a much better all-rounder. Not only does the Ford still appear sharp and drive well, it’s also the more reliable choice.
A big dealer network means you’ll never struggle to get your car fixed. And even if it does go wrong, the bill isn’t likely to be too steep. Mondeo man has never had it so good!
Thanks to: British Car Auctions (www.british-car-auctions.co.uk)
Verdict
Ford Mondeo (2000-2007)
Prices: £2,000-£17,500
Engines: 1.8, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0-litre petrols; 2.0, 2.2-litre diesels
Insurance groups: 8-16
Driver Power ranking: 56/100
Notes: Huge choice, sparkling chassis and low prices
Renault Laguna (2000-2007)
Prices: £2,000-£17,000
Engines: 1.6, 1.8, 2.0, 2.0T, 3.0-litre petrols; 1.9, 2.2-litre diesels
Insurance groups: 7-14
Driver Power ranking: 83/100
Notes: Strong diesels, good safety record, but fragile electrics
