Ford Fiesta (1989 - 1997) 1.1 LX 5d (1989/G) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I think it says that the owner is modest, that it isn't just a young drivers car. I think I am seen as practical because of the economy (which is desired in this recession and petrol prices considered).

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

They say it's a good, little car. It shines well, has good mileage, surprisingly roomy, and respectable to have.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I most definitely would if I was a first-time driver again, or if I couldn't decide on a car. I am into my Sierras, Cougars, and Hyundai Coupes, so I would put them first, but the Fiesta is a car I could recommend to the "new driver" or an elderly person, or even a family.

What are you likely to buy next?

A Ford Sierra (GT) model preferred.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£400

When did you buy the car?

February 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got a tremendous deal. The car at the time had only covered 42k miles, came with a full years MOT and TAX, was in brilliant condition (little rust on rear wheel arches, but that's expected on an old Ford). Everything worked... good little car.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Just wanted to get on the road... quick!

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Well, for the old engine, it's surprisingly quiet. It's very nippy though, and I knew that in it's day it would have easily overtaken your 1.6 Sierras, and the few Capris and 1.3 Escorts. It handles great (though not so much in the wet) and generally fun to drive. Having said that, when going round a bend, the seats aren't the most comfortable. For a small car, it is surprisingly roomy. I'm 6'6" and feel quite comfortable.

What's it like to park?

Very easy. Being a small car, it can fit in the tightest of parking areas. However, it doesn't have PAS, so you do have to make what we call in rallying circles "pizzas" with the steering wheel, i.e. you have to turn it quite a lot of times. That's no hardship though!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing has actually gone wrong per-se. Everything has always worked on it, it's always done what I wanted to. The only thing is the rear-wheel arches but that is expected on any old Ford, including a 19 year old MK III Fiesta! Mind you, being the old HCS/OHV engine, it does use quite a bit of oil.

What's most practical about your car?

The most obvious thing is the economy! I can average 40/45mpg, and can get 50mpg on a very good run! It's also easy to fix, and the engine bay is easy to get your hands on! Unlike the modern cars. It's nippy, economical, classic looks, not OTT, and a perfect first car... would also have enough room for a family.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Well, the LX model does lack a few features that the Ghia may include, but the sunroof is a nice feature - certainly more practical than air-con! It does help having a heated rear-window though. It doesn't have any PAS or ABS.