A difference in the attitudes of those purchasing secondhand cars in the north and south of England has been highlighted by new research from car-selling service Wizzle.co.uk.

Analysis of the number and variety of optional extras that car buyers go for when making a purchase revealed a sharp divide between those in the south, who typically go for more luxury add-ons to their vehicles, and those in the north.

Extras included such options as air conditioning, upgrades to entertainment systems and heated seating, with these added luxuries typically resulting in a large price increase for models even in the secondhand market.

Wizzle.co.uk founder Sebastien Duval commented: "When we compare basic models sold in different areas of the country the price-difference effects disappear, so the contrasts we found are all down to the extras fitted on the cars.

"Whether it is a case of tighter economics for northerners, or southerners really being softies, it's the clearest example of a north-south divide among motorists in England that we have seen."

Overall, the figures showed there are clear differences in the pricing of vehicles with added extras around the country, as well as in the attitudes of the buying public. For example, the average cost of a secondhand car purchase in Newcastle was 8.5 per cent above that of the base model, but in Bristol this figure rose to a whopping 44 per cent.

Ben Robb, brand manager at The Fuelcard People, adds: "It may be down to economics, or may be down to personal taste. Whatever the case, there's definitely a difference in the preferences of buyers up and down the country."

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