Ford Fiesta (1999 - 2002) 1.3 Flight 3d (2002/51) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That you don't like Vauxhalls of the same era. You want a back to basics car that doesn't cost much and you either don't like or can't afford handy technology in modern cars. Neither is cool...

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

They all like it more than me! "OK, I'll trade for your MK7 then". That shuts them up...

Would you buy this car again and why?

I'd buy a Fiesta, but certainly not a MK5. Not because it's a bad car. Many people will - and do - love their MK4/5's. But it just doesn't suit my personality, as I do like cars that have character. The MK7 Fiesta has more character, though I'd love a new Clio, MiTo or Swift.

What are you likely to buy next?

I have a feeling it's more realistically going to be one of the Aygo/C1/107 trio. Afterall, they manage to do cheeky, cheap AND cheerful as well as costing peanuts (I'm talking relatively!) to tax, insure and fuel. I absolutely love the engine sound, they really do sound like a mini Porsche 911.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£900

When did you buy the car?

July 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Reduced price by almost £100, but since car had no tax, 6 months tax made up for that.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Cheap, Reliable, Available.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly, understanding.

What's it like to drive?

The negatives mainly revolve around the ancient engine. Big differences in insurance between the 1.25 and 1.3 mean people are forced into buying this old, rattly and embarrassingly tappety engine. I was expecting no rocket, of course, but beyond around 30 mph, you need a calendar to measure its acceleration. The handling seems OK. Whilst it feels nimble, a direct result of its size, the steering doesn't communicate as well as 2012 Suzuki Swift. That's something which I hoped an older, lighter car with surprisingly heavy steering would deliver on. On the plus side, the gearbox is fantastic. It's light, yet snappy and responds to quick changes fantastically well. It encourages you to change gear for the sheer hell of it.

What's it like to park?

. Visibility too, is excellent. I was a bit apprehensive about going to a car without parking sensors but you can judge the corners of the car so well, they're in no way necessary.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing yet...

What's most practical about your car?

Visibility, big boot.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Like the Alloys, Sunroof. Nothing else to speak of really.