I've decided not to spend $10000 on a new(ish) car and instead will plough a considerable amount into the VS to get it back looking it's best (that means repairing the burn mark in the bonnet from the oil fire issue a few months back) and ensuring it's 100% mechanically sound so it can see me through well into next year. It probably wont depreciate much more in value so it makes sense to hang onto it for a while longer. The paint and bodywork is good, it's mechanically sound, new tyres were put on it a couple of months back and it's rego'd until the end of the year.
The car I was considering buying is a 2003 BA Fairmont. Wait, did he say $10000? Yup, tantalisingly attractive price, despite the 140k on the clock. There could've been other unknown issues with it and I've chosen to walk away and stick with the VS which has served the family well for the past 15 years. I'm not real keen on Fords, and despite it being a better car than the equivelent VY Calais, it doesnt excite me in the same way. Plus cars are dirt cheap at the moment and I expect they'll continue to be well into next year when I can actually properly afford a new one.
I think I've made the right decision...haven't I?