Specialists are not always cost effective

Insurers marketing themselves as ‘women-only’ or specialists for the elderly are not automatically the best value option for these consumers.

Analysis from price comparison site moneysupermarket.com shows motorists opting for specialist insurers are often missing out on the best deal.

For example, a 30-year-old woman with a Focus, Astra or Megane will find the cheapest women-only brands will quote her about £223 compared to traditional provider Swiftcover at an average of £172, or 30 per cent less. Specialist insurer Diamond averages £330, or over 90 per cent more.

Richard Mason, director of insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: " Specialist insurers such as Sheilas' Wheels, Ladybird and Diamond promote themselves heavily to women as the value alternative, catering specifically for their needs. But our research clearly shows it pays to shop around for premiums across the whole of market. While these insurers may sometimes come up trumps for women, chances are they will be beaten on premiums by the bigger, better known brands.

"Some specialist insurers do offer extra benefits, such as handbag cover, half-price MOT or free mobile phone and connection, but women should not be swayed by female-friendly adverts for cheaper car insurance. Instead, assess whether the extras are beneficial to you and let the premiums speak for themselves."

The story is the same for older drivers. A 60-year-old man with a Focus, Astra or Megane would pay an average of £117.70 with Swiftcover – 33 per cent less than cheapest specialist Saga at £156.50. The average RIAS quote is £237.40 – or more than double Swiftcover.

Richard Mason added: "Older drivers generally find their cars cheaper to insure, so this gives more scope for insurers to claim they offer better value. But our research has found elderly motorists shouldn't rely on specialist insurers. It definitely pays to scour all of the market for the best cover for your needs."