Should You Buy Dream Used Cars like the Aston Martin DB9? Mike Brewer’s Advice

Mike Brewer – the TV "Wheeler Dealer" with over forty years in the motor trade – knows a thing or two about buying and selling used cars. At 61, the veteran dealer has handled hundreds of specimens, but even he admits that his heart sometimes trumps his head when it comes to high‑performance bargains.

Speaking exclusively to Car Dealer Magazine, Brewer revealed the dream‑used models he still loves – and why he thinks buyers should think twice before signing the log‑book.

Aston Martin DB9

Brewer says: “That is a really cool car. I absolutely love an Aston Martin DB9. My heart says, ‘Go and buy an Aston Martin.’ In fact I am going to buy a DB9 – one’s on the way.”

He quickly follows with the hard‑headed reality: “When you buy an expensive car that has become cheap, you still face expensive servicing and maintenance. You don’t get cheap servicing with it, so your head should tell you ‘no.’”

Bentley Continental GT

Brewer says: “I’ve had a couple of those. Great cars, and they’re as cheap as chips. You can buy a decent GT for under £20,000.”

He warns, however, that the ownership cost goes beyond the purchase price: “Bentley servicing, tyres, brakes and oil are all premium. Over time the running costs can exceed what you paid for the car.”

“It will be a pleasure to own – your heart will burst with pride – but your head will be taking you straight to the bank.”

BMW M5 V10

Brewer says: “Those things are insane. They roar, they sound amazing, and it’s an M5 – one of the greatest performance saloons ever.”

He adds a note of caution: “You’ll have every specialist on the planet chasing you for credit‑card details, because that’s what it will cost to keep it running.”

Audi RS models (RS2, RS4, RS6)

Brewer says: “It all started with the RS2 – an insane car. Then the RS4 and RS6, which is basically Tom Hardy on wheels. I love the RS models.”

He points out the hidden expense: “When you buy an RS you’re not buying a standard Audi. You’re buying an Audi Advanced Plus Plus. Servicing items – brakes, clutches, tyres, wheels – all cost a huge amount to run an RS6.”

“Your heart will say ‘yes, go out and get one.’ Your head will say ‘you made the right purchase,’ but the cost of keeping it will sting.”

Classic Range Rover

Brewer says: “Who doesn’t like an old Range Rover? It’s stylish, timeless and anyone can drive it – from the Queen to the neighbour down the road.”

But he flags reliability: “Owning one comes with a lot of pain. Your heart says ‘yes,’ but keeping it on the road is painful.”

He notes an industry solution: “A whole specialist sector has sprung up – workshops, engineering firms and parts suppliers – to keep these classic Land Rovers running despite their unreliability.”

Used Car Awards 2026

Later this year Brewer will again host the Car Dealer Used Car Awards. Voting is open, and anyone in the trade can nominate themselves or a colleague.

Key dates to mark in your diary:

• Nominations close: Monday, 28 September
• Long‑list revealed: Monday, 5 October
• Shortlist revealed: Monday, 19 October
• Awards night: Monday, 30 November

Brewer explained why the ceremony matters: “I’ve spent my life around cars and the people who sell them, and I know how much hard work goes into running a great dealership. The Used Car Awards celebrate the real stars of the motor trade.”

He added, “I’m looking forward to getting back on stage, meeting the finalists and hearing their stories. If you think you have what it takes, get your nominations in – I can’t wait to see who takes home the trophies this year!”

For more information and to submit your nomination, visit the Car Dealer website.