• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Looks after his car

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

    Very tidy

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    I would, but only a high spec model with history as prices are so cheap

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Something slightly bigger; maybe a Mk1 Focus

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £500

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Very good deal as i bought it from family

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    n/a

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Lovely to drive, ride is firm and sporty but you do feel the bumps! Road noise is quite high, but probably due to rubbish tyres. The controls are well weighted and give a good response. Brakes seem a bit naff but have never given cause for concern. The gearbox can feel a bit notchy when cold and if you rush gearchanges, a worn syncro means the gears can crunch a tiny bit. Reverse gear crunches if the car is still moving or if you select it too quickly. The 1.25 engine is surprisingly quick but not mind blowing and its not that great on hills either unless you get a good run up, its not ideal on motorways for comfort and overtaking. however, saying that it is a fantastic little engine and a great all rounder.

    What's it like to park?

    Visibility is excellent, steering lock could be better though

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Heater control valve, idle control valve a bit iffy sometimes, door switch for interior lights sticks occasionally. Nothing major though

    What's most practical about your car?

    Boot is a fair size and the car in general is ideal for day-to-day motoring

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Air con, chunky four spoke alloys, metallic paint (pepper red) colour coded bumpers and rear spoiler