[Mondaveo]

Hey 123, it sounds like you're in a similar place as I was in the day. 2015 I was looking for a circa-2012 Mondeo so quite parallel to what you're asking.

Back then the trim levels were named LX, Zetec and Titanium (MC), now they are Ambiente, Trend and Titanium (MD). The philosophy is the same, LX/Ambiente is the lowest-spec fleet special (although still quite well-equipped, it's no poverty-pack) and Zetec/Trend is the intended entry point for private buyers (having more of the mod cons and styling options, though pricier for it). Titanium is the fully-loaded option (and getting quite exxy at new car price).

In terms of drivetrain the LX/Ambiente gets a downrated petrol engine while Zetec/Trend & Titanium get a punchier Ecoboost petrol. The diesel engine is the same across all grades.

When I was looking, the feeling I got was a 3yo LX would cost me up to $15K depending on mileage, and a 3yo Titanium would be around $24K (I was looking at wagons which are slightly pricier). In the end, I got a well-maintained 4/5yo Titanium for $22K private sale. I think the Redbook prices are probably the lowest you could realistically hope to achieve, but by all means quote it when you go in to bargain, if the seller is motivated you may get lucky.

The Camry would not be a bad buy by any means, but Toyota these days don't really compete on price and features (they know they don't have to), so you can get more car for your money with other marques. The tradeoff is resale - Toyotas as a rule hold their value extremely well, while Fords in general lose value sometimes quite precipitously. Mondeo gets an especially bad rap thanks to Powershift, but if you're comfortable with all that it just makes it all the more attractive as a used car bargain.