Hi, i`m in exactly the same position myself, my finances are dictating a V reg import or an T reg UK car. Obviously the V reg car is the prefered model, with lower mileage and possibly better condition due to not been in this lousy climate for so long.
Problem been what if you suffer a major mechanical failure on the car? I for sure would not be able to afford to repair it for a couple of months, and so i am trying to way up which way to go( and have been doing so for a few weeks now

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Its just the what if !!!!, for example on my scoob i had a complete short engine fitted under warranty, admittedly a well documented fault on the MY98 Impreza`s, but even so it was repaired at no cost myself ( and at over £2k i`m glad about that! )
Defently a tough choice!
.....just realised that probably hasnt helped you in anyway at all!