Putting a deposit on a car question

[StealthSteve]

What you need if it all goes 'tits up' is a paper trail, as verbal agreements are not legally binding.

Actually is it, and irrevocably if you get it recorded. Use a phone, dictaphone...

Leaving cash is no worse then leaving a paypal deposit, both have limited means to get it back before you're screwed.

If possible, use a credit card.

But ther are some strange laws, "In York, excluding Sundays, it is perfectly legal to shoot a Scotsman with a bow and arrow."

I haven't tried it despite being here 20years, but it apparently is legal to do so.
(even in todays health and safety state)