Daihatsu Charade Hatchback (2003 - 2007) 1.0 EL 5d (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Well in all honesty. I bought it when I was super skint. Just needed something reliable and functional. The car simply says 'got to get to work'.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Everyone hates it. My partner will not drive it and will only receive a lift if it is raining. My brothers slag me off no end for owning/driving it. The neighbours think the only good thing about it is that the car is either clean or in the garage. It is a silly looking car. However it has never let me down and I've become quite attached to the tin-foil matchbox.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I do not need to buy it again. Already got it. Do not think I could part with it. Good memories. However I would not buy that 'model/type' of car again.

What are you likely to buy next?

The Fiat 500 Abarth is in the front-running.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,200

When did you buy the car?

February 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Well, a 2004 plate with 11000 miles on the clock, full service history and completely pristine. It would not have been wise for me to let it go. £2200, cheapest car I have ever bought.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Moving from Yorkshire Dales to Central Manchester. Needed city car. Old Subaru Forester was great but it had a drink problem!

What was the dealer like?

Nice guys. No problem. Very honest and direct. The car sold itself. Brilliant used car warranty. However, never had any need to call on the warranty anyway.

What's it like to drive?

It's a remarkably energetic little car. Responsive throttle, light clutch and sharp reassuring brakes. Amazing low revolution torque. This car can pull away from a standstill in 2nd/3rd gear from a standstill without any protest. It's very good when crawling along in congested traffic. Hardly ever have to use the clutch. Is that because the car is the same weight as 1/2 a dozen eggs? It is okay on the motorway. You can push it, but despite its cruising stability; the 3 cylinder makes a lot of noise. Nevertheless it does not feel overly strained above 80 mph. And in all fairness, that is as fast as I would ever want to go in a little car like this one. Furthermore, I noticed on a 500 mile round trip to Glasgow/Manchester, the little engine is unusually greedy.

What's it like to park?

What? Well it is very, very easy. I cannot park. I failed by driving test 7 times due to parking faults. I can park this car. Get into almost every space with room to spare on all the points of the compass. Sweet power steering helps. I'll notify the DVLA of my competence to drive if I cannot park this car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing. Normal wear & tear. Tyres, Brakes, routine servicing. Has covered 31,000 miles since purchase in 2010. It even has the original battery and exhaust.

What's most practical about your car?

Lots of room for the cars overall size. Doors open to almost 90 degrees. Easy for people of all shapes, sizes and physical limitations to get in and out of. Brilliant visibility all round.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Simple controls and switchgear. Responsive power steering is a treat. Mine is an EL, so A/c is always missed on hotter days. Easily solved though, wind all the windows down and go slightly faster.