NZ's most stolen cars revealed

Nissan's Silvia, popular among import car modifiers and driters, has topped New Zealand's most-stolen car list. Photo / alastairritchie.com

The Nissan Silvia has topped a list of the most frequently stolen vehicles for the second year running.

AA Insurance (AAI) today released the list based on analysis of theft claims made to the company over the last four years.

Subaru had three models in the top 10, while the Nissan Skyline jumping from eighth place to third.

Newcomers to the list included the Mitsubishi Legnum, Honda Integra, Subaru Forester and Mazda Familia.

The list showed car thieves preferred pre-2000 models, AAI deputy general manager Martin Fox said.

"That's probably because older cars lack the sophisticated security systems of newer models, such as electronic locking, alarms and immobilisers, so are simply easier to steal," he said.

"It's more about the age of the cars than the various vehicle manufacturers."

Sixty nine per cent of stolen vehicles reported to AAI did not contain any security devices.

Mr Fox said thieves were opportunistic and drivers should take measures to protect their vehicle, including installing a security system, always locking it and parking in well-lit areas.

The Top 10:

1. Nissan Silvia
2. Subaru Impreza
3. Nissan Skyline
4. Subaru Legacy
5. Mitsubishi Legnum
6. Honda Integra
7. Subaru Forester
8. Mazda Lantis
9. Honda Prelude
10. Mazda Familia

- NZPA