Ford Mondeo Hatchback (1993 - 2000) 2.5 V6 Ghia X 5d Auto (96) (1999/V) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It says that I'm a snob that cant afford brand new, sorry but its the Ghia X auto - what else can it portray? Mondy's are like Cortinas, Cavaliers, Vectras - dirt cheap and very common - so unless you have the Ghia or above, then it's the working man with 4 kids image rather than the bachelor Accountant with his Audi A3 coupe.

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

Folks say that its very nice to travel in, and very spacious. The V6 is very smooth and quiet and the auto is sure to impress. But, from the exterior, they say its very dated and prefer the ride quality to its looks.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy another Ford Mondeo - They are a solid and honest car - like the Sierra and the Cortina before that, they are the rep's choice, the sort of car that chews up the miles in comfort. Thats what a car is for. Its no frills comfort and luxury - a real wolf in sheeps clothing.

What are you likely to buy next?

I'm quite happy with my Mondy and have no plans to change it in the near future. Its cheap luxury motoring that I cant better for the money at present.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,700

When did you buy the car?

February 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I part exchanged my old P Reg 2.0 LX for this model plus £1100, this is better than the book price and the car was MOT'd for nearly 12 months. It was in good condition (after a T-Cut and polish) and everything electronic worked.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

I purchased this car from a small dealer who sold cars on the side as well as running his public house. He was very honest and did not hide anything from me.

What's it like to drive?

Great to drive - cant fault the speed and acceleration from standing start. The Auto box is the best option on the V6, its smooth changing and very responsive in Sport mode. Top end speed limited though for this size of engine, but for the legal speed limits on our roads, its the best performance I've ever driven

What's it like to park?

Not so easy to get into tight spaces, but power steering is very light for a heavy car. If you want a town car to get into tight spaces or multi storey car parks - don't go here - go for the Ka or the Focus.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The only thing that seems to be faulty is the starter. Occasionally it seems to miss the flywheel and make a loud screaming noise. after about the 5'th attempt, it will then engage and start. I've been told it will be a flywheel replacement at over £700 so I will have to live with it for now - otherwise - no other problems as yet.

What's most practical about your car?

I'ts got a great boot - huge in fact when the seats are in place. Its got heated seats and even a front heated windscreen for winter mornings. Obviously its an automatic so its so easy to drive with the least of effort.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Without doubt, I love the cruise control - its a dream on the motorway - just sit back and let the car drive you! The Leather Heated seats are great on cold mornings and its got a fuel computer to tell me when I'm getting good fuel economy.