The Home Office Car Theft Index 2006 has revealed the top 10 cars with the highest risk of theft. According to a Home Office study, the Vauxhall Belmont comes with the highest risk of theft. The study is based on the cars stolen in 2005, and has recorded cars stolen by car type - such as, different sized saloons and minis.

According to the study, the numbers of cars stolen in England, Wales and Scotland dropped by 16 per cent - 38,394 fewer car thefts. The Index further shows that newer cars, upto three years old, are less likely to be stolen.

This has been possible, according to the Home Secretary – John Reed, due the efforts by the police, and the car manufacturers, who have made security a part of the car design by installing electronic immobilisers and deadlocks.

Owners of older cars can reduce car theft by installing a steering lock.