Ford Fiesta 1989
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Just payed a shade over £500 for a completely unmolested and standard 100,000-miler with a FSH. Have to say, must be the biggest steal since the great train robbery!

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Insurance a little high, but this is brought down with a decent immobiliser and some no-claims discount. Parts cheap and plentiful.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    If you ever buy a car that will bring a smile to your face, this has to be it - it is a hoot! Although it lacks PAS, this is more than made up for by the response and feel from the road.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Although slightly slower than the earlier 1.6 model, it pulls magnificently smoothly through all the gears and the Zetec engine is more than ample.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    In the couple of months I have had this car, it's never let me down.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Surprisinly good, would rather drive one of these than some souped-up Nova with silly wheels and a single wiper blade. I am 29 years old and I am as enthusiastic about this car as I was when I first drove one 10 years ago!

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Ride harsh, although these later cars have a much improved interior, the wing back seats offer brilliant support and the harsh ride is soon forgotten when you drive the thing!

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Get an immobiliser fitted, not very secure door locks.

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Never needed any.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Tailgate release switch doesn't work. Not bad, as its the only fault on a 10 year old car.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes