You’d fully expect a car with almost 300,000 miles to its name to be off the roads and lying in a scrapheap. When this pulled up on my driveway. I didn't know what to expect. But one thing's for sure; it certainly shouldn’t feel this good. I’ve been completely blown away. The 100,000-mile threshold has previously acted as a sort of cliff-edge, with vehicles more susceptible to expensive damage which renders a car almost a write-off. Timing belt issues, suspension works, spark plugs, it all adds up.
Car values also tend to fall around the 100,000-mile mark, with the threshold acting as a psychological barrier for many on the used car market. eBay data shows that nearly three-quarters (72%) of motorists said they would not buy a car that has travelled more than 100,000 miles. But could that be about to change?
According to previous data from Scrap Car Comparison, the average mileage of a car before its written off was around 131,700 miles in 2025. So what is a Toyota Prius still doing on the road at over 296k on the odometer? eBay purchased the former taxi and went about fitting the model with new and used parts from individuals, small businesses and official brand stores listed on their marketplace. And what an overhaul it was.
Restorers spent £1,865.14 in total, fitting everything from new brake discs and pads, fresh trims and front and rear lights. The Prius was also equipped with a middle interior vent unit, a replacement steering wheel, wiper blades and a bonnet seal. There were also visual tweaks, with a new front licence plate holder, floor mats and centre console tray accessory all fitted.
It sounds a lot, but with the car on sale for just £3,790, the entire project cost just over £5,600 to complete; it’s still a bargain. As I opened the door and stepped inside, I was immediately impressed with the spacious interior and comfortable seats. But as I fired up the ignition and pulled away, it didn’t take long to quickly realise what a joy this would be to drive.
The car was smooth on acceleration, offered precise steering and handled like a dream. I didn't hear one knocking sound, or see one error message or warning light after a week on the roads. I’ve seen more glitches in second-hand cars with only a quarter of the mileage. It really was mind-blowing.
The Prius was so smooth that it almost felt like a completely brand new car, not one that had already exceeded the equivalent of two whole lifespans.
Toyota is known for its reliability, but the experience has definitely given me food for thought. Motorists on a budget would arguably be better off spending £5k on a slightly older car fitted with brand new parts than something a little bit newer that’s been put through its paces.