Ford Fiesta (2002 - 2008) 1.6 Zetec S 3d (05) (2008/08) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'm a young lad with a bit of money who likes fast cars.

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

Passers by always stare, massive hit with young people. Friends love it. Brother likes it, girlfriend hates the speed and mum hates the ride comfort.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, definatly! Even with all it's problems. I'd make sure i got extended warranty.

What are you likely to buy next?

If i'm feeling flush Audi S3/Astra VXR Arctic. If i'm being sensible Clio 197 Cup for a change.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£10,500

When did you buy the car?

January 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

I think i could have got it slightly cheaper in hindsight but with age comes wisdom.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

My first car was on its way out.

What was the dealer like?

Poor - Grasmere Vxl, Macclesfield. I was promised the scuffed alloys would be repaired and the worn tyres re-newed, went to collect the car and neither had been done. Left with the car and only ever got the tyres changed. Also used Seward Vxl, Poole who managed to drop my alloy on its face. Since then i've used Pentagon Vxl, Rochdale who i can't fault.

What's it like to drive?

Awesome, i love it! The exhaust note and the turbo put a smile on my face everytime i get behind the wheel. Standard i found the car wallows alot on the bends and dips under breaking so i invested in the lowering springs through Thorney Motorsport (Vxl's in house tuning company).

What's it like to park?

Not perfect but you get used to it, with the 18's it has the turning circle of a tank.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes, lots! On the drive home the DDS came on and from time to time still comes on randomly. Vaccume pipe came off and car went in to Vxl 4/5 times before it was finally cured. Rear wheel bearings went at around 60k, quite common i'm told. A/C pipe split twice. Trim came away from door, below window and one side skirt is now coming unstuck. The upholstry on the Recaro's has come away from the seat at the rear and on the front in places. I must say never had any problems with starting etc.

What's most practical about your car?

It's like a tardis, people often comment on how roomy it is. I've had masses of kit in the back on occasions and transported bikes with ease.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

18's look great, aux socket is cool, cruise control is a godsend on motorway journeys, DDS is good in theory and on board computer gives lots of info. I baught the Remus exhaust as fitted to the Arctic Ltd Edition which i love to bits, not for everyone though with very loud snarling and popping.