CARS are losing value quicker as manufacturers shorten models' lifecycles and image-conscious drivers crave the latest versions, according to CAP Network.

Martin Ward, national research manager for CAP, claimed: 'Today's cars are almost built to last forever, but we live in a throw-away society. In 2002 there will be many new car launches.

As all-new models appear, the out-going ones suddenly begins to look dated and values tend to suffer.

'Safety also gets better and the technology now being introduced to improve economy, handling and build quality is far more advanced than it was a couple of years ago. This makes older cars not only look old, but feel old.'

Ward cited the problem that as cars become more technologically advanced, they also become more expensive to repair as they get older.