Fiat Panda (2004 - 2011) 1.2 (69bhp) MyLife 5d (2011/11) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I am confirdent enough that I don't need the tarts handbag that is the Fiat 500 which underneath is the same car.

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

They laugh at me - but I am 6'3" and 16 stone until I tell them about how cheap it is to run and how much fun I can have.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would get the new Panda - basically they say what they do on the tin. Cheap city motoring though fuel economy is not (as is always the case) as good as advertised - expect 45mpg in real world driving.

What are you likely to buy next?

I'll keep this and run it in to the ground - it is my second car and I think little fits get better (and cooler) with age.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£6,995

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

It was a low basic price so no deals being offered - but 7 grand for a new car with air con, electric windows and central locking ain't bad.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Small and cheap as I needed a run around for short journeys.

What was the dealer like?

Alright but not brilliant, no real complaints but room for customer service improvements.

What's it like to drive?

Small, fun if you are willing to use all the revs, a bit harsh on the suspension but it can put a smile on your face as it is very easy to get it to its limits - reminds me of what James Hunt used to say about his Austin A35 - loads of fun at low speeds.

What's it like to park?

A doodle - if you have trouble parking this you should get yourself a bike.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing - apart from people keep hitting the drivers door mirror - I have had to replace 2 in 10 months.

What's most practical about your car?

Small and nippy in town - all four of the family fit in for short journeys, and it will still carry luggage. Can park in most places.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Central locking.