Second-hand car drivers are going for the "geek chic" look when it comes to changing their vehicle, it has been revealed.

Cars originally seen as "nerdy" are now among the most desirable to motorists aged under 40, according to research by breakdown company Britannia Rescue.

Cars falling into this category include the 2001 to 2003 Honda Civic, the Ford Sierra and the Vauxhall Cavalier.

Another is the Ford Capri which features in the TV series The Only Way is Essex.

Of 1,115 Britons aged 18-38 who were surveyed, 19% thought older motors were more stylish than modern ones and 18% reckoned older cars were unlikely to depreciate in value.

A survey of used car dealers showed that 13% had sold a Honda Civic in the past year.

Other popular "geeky" models include the Land Rover Defender, the Austin Mini Countryman and the Austin Maxi.

Britannia Rescue managing director Peter Horton said: "It's great to see how cars that were once the 'geeks' of the showroom have become desirable and are popular amongst trend-setters again.

"Geek chic cars are seen as more stylish than modern cars and usually benefit from cheaper road tax.

"Older cars can also be easier to maintain than modern cars as they tend to be simpler under the bonnet."