Ford Fiesta (1989 - 1997) 1.4 Flight 5d (1991/J) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I drive a fairly decent Fiesta.

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

My friends are impressed with its condition considering the age, especially since I dealt with the rust.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, because there's really nothing wrong with it.

What are you likely to buy next?

Possibly a sporty Corolla. Or I might save up and get an RX-8 (A big step in the car market!)

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£300

When did you buy the car?

March 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yup. Car had been owned by my friend for the previous 2 years and she'd had no problems. Got it with less than 70k on the clock, 9 months tax, 5 months test and a full tank of petrol all for £300!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Sold and recommended by a friend.

What was the dealer like?

-

What's it like to drive?

Excellent for what it is. 0-60 is dealt with faster than what some new supermini's can do it in. The engine can pull hard throughout the rev range, even as low as 1750 rpm in fourth going up an incline; which is more than an '02 1400 Fiesta can do (as I found the other day when I tried my friends new car out). The car is very capable on the motorway, and can cruise at 70 with 3k revs showing, or at 90 with 4k. Exceeding a ton is easily dealt with, though I wouldn't advise it. The engine has a surprising amount of torque, so hills are easily handled though you will be shifting down for the steeper ones. Handling is very good in the dry thanks to the fairly low centre of gravity and wide tyres. Leans a bit on sweeping corners if you push it too hard. The suspension is good and eats up the bu

What's it like to park?

Easy compared to new cars. As it's lower to the ground and you can see the four corners, parking is a doddle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Rust under the rear axle cost a lot to repair, more than twice the usual welding cost at a garage. Rear arches, front apron and the leading edge of the back doors are all prone to rust.

What's most practical about your car?

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The alloy wheels (usually seen on the xr2i version) grip like no-one's business.