Ford Fiesta (1995 - 1999) 1.25 LX 16V 5d (1997/P) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Motoring on a budget!

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

Cheap as chips!

Would you buy this car again and why?

Not for myself, but definitely for a first time driver or as a run around.

What are you likely to buy next?

Renault Megane, but a bit apprehensive about closed up engine bay - could be expensive repairs...

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,800

When did you buy the car?

June 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

needed economical commuting car

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

A bit too much torque on 1st and 2nd gear, but otherwise the 16v zetec is reliable and efficient. A very forgiving engine that allows pulling away in 2nd from almost a standstill. Very forgiving and hard to stall without actually trying or really not paying attention. The car is like a little rollerskate on the motorway and steering becomes twitchy at over 70mph. Seating is average, although for long distance driving getting comfortable isn't possible. Cabin noise is quite high, but for a cheap little car you can't expect miracles. Agile steering around town, but brakes are (like most Fords) a bit soft. Ride is a bit bouncy over rough roads, but gear change is quick and smooth.

What's it like to park?

Small car with power steering, so not hard. Not as whizzy as the Fiat Punto on city mode, but a close rival. No real blind spots, but poor visibility on side mirrors involves a lot of head swivelling and slip road entry can be tricky too.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Trouble free so far, but brake fluid, pads and discs needed changing as previous set felt very spongy.

What's most practical about your car?

Fantastically reliable and easy access engine bay

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Power steering is about as fancy as it gets on my car! Less gadgets mean less to go wrong however, so cheap to run and look after