Newcastle upon Tyne dealer Benfield Nissan has found a solution to the current shortage of quality used cars by importing 30 Micras from Northern Ireland.

The two-year-old models proved popular, partly as a result of their unique number plates, which “take the age of the cars”, said sales manager Darrin Robinson.

“With the introduction of bi-yearly registrations, cars age more quickly and customers are much more conscious of the number plate,” he said. “The system in Ireland is not alphabetical – they look like private plates. Consequently nobody can tell the age of the car.”

The 1-litre 16v models, which were all sold within weeks, came with the balance of the manufacturer's three-year warranty. They were not classed as imports, which “often puts people off”, said Mr Robinson.

He added: “With new car sales falling, quality used car stock is scarce and expensive to buy. We could not source vehicles of a similar age in this country at that money.” The Micras, acquired through manufacturer contacts in Northern Ireland, sold from £3,995. Benfield enjoyed “good margins – better than if we had sourced the car here”, said Mr Robinson.

He hopes to repeat the venture if more cars become available.

##Benfield Mirca--none--AGELESS: Benfield Nissan sales executive Steve Ritson with some of the imported Micras that have unique number plates##