Hi Derek,

Both are actually pretty excellent, but be aware that the smallest engine you’ll find in either is a 1.4 and that may cause you difficulties with insurance, as Irish insurers (fine, upstanding people that they are, ahem) tend to try and force new drivers into cars with 1.0-litre engines. The Golf is a little better built and a little more reliable, but actually not by much. At that price level, what’s crucial is to ignore things like mileage and concentrate on condition and history. You want to find a car that’s been well cared for and looked after. It’s also a good idea to budget a little extra if you can for things like fresh tyres and brake pads – always good to say safe out there.