Ford Fiesta 1989
  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Overall good value.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Average fuel consumption. Cheap parts, but insurance is a bit steep 'cos of the Si badge.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Great handling, but understeers in the wet. Vredestein Hi-Trac tyres improve matters and are quite cheap in the unusual 185/55/R14 standard si size.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Take it for what it is and performance is fine. Handling is its strong point.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Never fails to start, but have replaced a fair few parts, most of them to be expected.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    One of the better looking Fiestas, but it's still a Fiesta.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very comfy inside, but quite crashy over bumps in urban environments. No discomfort on regular 150 mile drives.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Hasn't been nicked yet, but I have had driver's lock replaced and boot lock is now knackered too!

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Dealer hid rust when I bought it. Dealer service and Rapidfit are awful. They'd suggest replacing the engine every service if they thought they'd get away with it!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Sticking idle air control valve and always struggles through MOT emissions.

    Other

    Replaced: rear shocks, brake shoes, front pads and discs, front susp. arms, alternator, door lock and ignition barrel, lambda sensor.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes