Electric or Petrol? Choosing the Best Used Car for You

28 Mar 2025

Electric or Petrol? Choosing the Best Used Car for You in the UK

Buying a used car in the UK comes with many decisions, and one of the biggest is whether to go electric or stick with a petrol or diesel vehicle. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, so understanding the key differences will help you make the right choice.

Initial Cost

Second-hand electric vehicles (EVs) often come with a higher price tag than petrol or diesel models. However, prices are becoming more competitive as more EVs enter the market. On the other hand, petrol and diesel cars generally offer a wider range of affordable options, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Running and Maintenance Costs

EVs are far cheaper to run compared to their fossil fuel counterparts. Electricity is significantly more cost-effective than petrol or diesel, particularly with the UK’s high fuel prices. If you have off-street parking and access to a home charger, the savings can be even greater. EVs also require less maintenance—there’s no need for oil changes, and their braking systems wear down more slowly. Traditional petrol and diesel cars, however, come with ongoing expenses such as fuel, servicing, and repairs for components like timing belts and exhaust systems.

Battery Life vs Engine Longevity

A common concern with used EVs is battery degradation. Most modern electric car batteries are covered by warranties of around eight years or 100,000 miles, but they do lose some capacity over time. Before purchasing, it’s important to check battery health. Petrol and diesel cars don’t have this issue, but their engines and transmissions can experience wear and tear, leading to expensive repairs.

Range and Convenience

If you regularly drive long distances, a petrol or diesel car might be the better option, as refuelling takes just a few minutes at one of the UK’s extensive network of petrol stations. While EV ranges have improved significantly, charging times and infrastructure can still be a concern, particularly in rural areas. However, for city driving and short commutes, EVs are ideal, and the UK’s growing number of rapid chargers, including those at motorway service stations, makes longer journeys more manageable.

Environmental Impact

EVs produce zero emissions while driving, making them the greener option. However, battery production does have an environmental impact, and electricity generation isn’t always from renewable sources. Petrol and diesel cars continuously emit CO2 and other pollutants, contributing to climate change and urban air pollution. With the UK’s 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales approaching, EV adoption is set to increase further.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Electric cars have traditionally depreciated faster than petrol or diesel cars, though this trend is shifting as EVs become more mainstream. Battery health plays a crucial role in resale value, so it’s worth researching models known for reliability. Petrol and diesel cars have historically held their value better, but with the introduction of Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) in London and Clean Air Zones (CAZ) in cities like Birmingham and Bristol, resale values of high-emission vehicles may decline.

Tax and Incentives

The UK government offers several incentives for EV owners, including lower road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty), exemption from the London Congestion Charge, and grants for home charging installations. Petrol and diesel vehicles don’t benefit from these perks and could face higher costs due to emissions-based charges in urban areas.

Which Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on your driving habits, budget, and priorities. If low running costs, environmental impact, and city-friendly driving are important to you, an EV is a strong option. If you need a lower upfront cost, long-range convenience, and quick refuelling, a petrol or diesel car may suit you better.

Before committing to any used car, check the service history, battery health (for EVs), and total ownership costs to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer or any other company. This article has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these organisations. NB: The information on this page does not constitute financial advice, please do your own research to ensure that the product / service is right for your individual circumstances.