Ford Focus Hatchback (1998 - 2004) 1.8 TDCi Sport 3d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

The owner is interested in economy, good looks, performance and practicality. All of which is offered in this package.

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

My family like the car and the girlfriend is impressed with the comfort. The mother is disappointed in the boot size when comparing it to her Astra estate... Yet this is one area that has satisfied. On a recent trip to Wales with four family members the car was full and yet there was still room and all members were comfortable.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would purchase this car again but maybe in imperial blue or panther black. The car really does stand out and it's one of those cars you walk away from and look back at to catch a second glance. The handling is what sells the car to me, it is by far the best handling hatchback I have ever drove in original form.

What are you likely to buy next?

I am likely to remap this TDCI Sport. I will hopefully purchase a boosted petrol motor next.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

The deal was good from the independent Ford dealer in that I had managed to save £1,000 off the initial price the vehicle was advertised for.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Good looks, dynamic chassis and safety.

What was the dealer like?

The dealer let me drive the vehicle my own and left me to drive the vehicle alone which allowed me to become acquainted with the car. The dealer listened to my offer and accepted despite my asking of £800 off the asking price.

What's it like to drive?

The car is my motorway cruiser and the performance in gear really is perfect for long journeys. In all honesty Ford could have spent a bit more on a 6 speed box and offered shorter ratios to aid acceleration, however even on this front the car does not disappoint. The car's main party piece is the handling- the car is light on its feet and agile right where it needs to be. Despite this car being my motorway daily driver when it is shown a B road or technical A road it comes into its own.

What's it like to park?

The C pillar is fairly large on the 3 door Focus, however the car is light on steering when it comes to parking yet perfectly weighted when coming to driving technical roads.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Other than a boost hose rupturing and general service items the car the car has been faultless. That said an odd issue with the window switches for the passenger window on the driver side has developed.

What's most practical about your car?

The space for 5 comfortably, even on long journeys. Yet even with a car full it still pulls and feels refined.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

By far the comfortable, supportive, classy leather seats. These seats make all the difference to the drive and I wouldn't drive a mk1 Focus without them!