Hello Liz and thank you for the update!
The petrol Space Stars all had GDi (Gasoline Direct Injection) which was, when first produced, ahead of its time. Its getting more common now.
Anyway, the 1.8 vehicle was available in 4 trim styles, and ceased production in 2006. The fact that it has auto transmission has little influence on its value now.
A car dealer could, in good times, ask nearly £2000 for this vehicle. As he is asking little more than trade price (£1500 tops) he obviously has had it standing around for a while. No matter.
Obviously the car's mileage is very much in its favour - 5k miles a year seems good to me! See if you can find out:
If the car was locally owned (the reg plate should give you a clue) and how many owners
Look for service history (hopefully there's some to verify the mileage)
Has it had a timing belt change (due at 54000 miles and vital)
You are only interested if it has 12 months MOT, of course.....
What warranty you can get (limited, naturally - but its the auto transmission that spooks me)
Crash damage.....below the boot carpet from the back, and the paintwork under the bonnet should be matt. The number plates should have the same name on the back and front.
So - my opinion? Good cars, reliable, well built but a bit underpowered, with no real corrosion - does it really have to be an auto? Auto transmission problems essentially mean bye bye car.....
I hope this helps!
Yep - Northumberland is a glorious, under populated county. Well worth a visit!
John