The guide covers 261 makes and models and aims at advising the safest possible choices.

Many people look to purchase used vehicles over the summer months to coincide with school and university graduations, Christmas presents or even just upgrading existing vehicles before taking holidays, so the release of the Safety Guide couldn't come at a better time.

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary for Safety, Environment and Regulation, Tara McCarthy, said the ratings provide a comprehensive picture of the safety of all different types of used vehicles on the market.

"Your car choice might save your life if you're involved in a crash," she said.

"I'm urging all drivers to choose the safest vehicle possible to protect themselves, their passengers and other road users in a crash.

"There are many five-star rated vehicles across a variety of categories as well as 'safer picks' that give excellent protection to the driver, cause less serious injury to other road users and include crash avoidance technology."

She said it was also important to note that when it comes to safety, not all cars are equal, however newer does not always equal safer.

"Some of the safer pick vehicles are almost 15 years old, showing that safety technology is now an option available even in older vehicles."

Mechanic, Mark Jacobs, said that not matter how old the vehicle was or it's safety rating, it was important to get the vehicle checked.

"It's always worth getting a pre-purchase inspection done," he said.

"They cost around $80 but can save you in the long run, especially if you're not mechanically minded.

"Even with safety ratings, you should look at the vehicles service history and ask for an e-safety check prior to purchase."

Executive Director of the Centre for Road Safety, Bernard Carlon, said that people looking at older or cheaper cars can still benefit from the Safety Guide.

"The ratings also demonstrate that price isn't always an indicator of safety, with some of the highest rating vehicles priced between $5,000 and $10,000.

"Those on a budget, or young people buying their first vehicle can still choose a safer vehicle."

Some of the cars rated safest included:

A total of eight cars received the top safety rating, while 18 SUV's were listed as the safest choices.

The Used Car Safety Ratings guide is available in print and online at https://towardszero.nsw.gov.au/safesystem/safe-vehicles