A recent poll has revealed that biggest deciding factor, for drivers when choosing a car, is its overall price. A survey conducted by the British Car Auction (BCA), found that most drivers chose the price of maintaining a car as their main reason for purchasing a car. Other factors included the model, mileage and the age of the car.

Twenty two per cent stated that they would choose a car that had lower maintenance and fuel costs, while nine per cent of the people polled, said that they would choose a car that had a cheaper rate of car insurance and a further nine per cent stated that they would choose a cheaper car.

Professor Peter Cooke, author of the report, stated that the economic slowdown could encourage drivers to purchase smaller cars or go for quality second-hand vehicles, instead of new models.

The cost of maintaining and running a car has increased, as the AA stated that most drivers would have to pay an extra £30 to £50 on their car insurance premiums to cover other people against uninsured drivers, along with the apparent rise in fuel costs.

Andrew Howard, a spokesperson also stated that insurance premiums are used to protect people, who have suffered injuries or damage from uninsured drivers.