Nissan Micra (1993 - 2002) 1.0 S 3d (96) (1998/R) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Owning a Micra probably says that I am financially-conscious. It does have a reputation as being a pensioner car. However, it is growing in popularity among younger drivers. This would mainly be for it's cheapness to buy and run, but also the ease to which it can be modified or personalised.

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

Friends find the Micra to be "cute", but are more than happy to ask for a lift in it! Due to the quietness and tiny size of the Micra, it is not offensive to the neighbours. When curb space is at a premium it is helpful not to require too much space.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy this car again, possibly a bigger engined version however the 1.0 is very nippy.

What are you likely to buy next?

I am looking in to a mid-2000s Volvo C30 for my next car, I plan on turning the Micra in to a cheap track-day car and would need something suitable for towing it.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£500

When did you buy the car?

April 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

This Micra was averagely priced for the year. There are many cheaper however, this had been well maintained with low mileage for the year. After checking the car over, I was happy to pay the price requested.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Nissan's reputation in the small engine market, part availability and general running costs.

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly and open. No quibble on any details, and was happy to take a deposit to secure the car. There was no pressure to purchase, I was left alone to check the car over and take it for a test drive.

What's it like to drive?

The micra is very easy to drive, while there is no power steering or ABS it feels light and responsive. Around town it sits nicely, does not over heat at all. It is very quiet when running. One the motorway it will sit at 70 with ease, it does not feel under any pressure and does have more power left in it if needed. The suspension is soft, which does not impede the handling too much. This can only really be noticed when taking a sharp turn too quickly! I do many countrywide trips in the Micra, it is comfortable either on the motorway or a country lane.

What's it like to park?

Being so small, the Micra is easy to park. However, you will notice the lack of power steering when trying to get in to a tight gap. Visibility is good, with a large rear window and fairly thin pillars between side glass.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Since owning the Micra the rear axle has snapped. However, they are prone to rust on the axle and it was expected this would fail in the near future.

What's most practical about your car?

It is a very economical car, in terms of fuel costs but also maintenance costs. Parts for the Micra are easy to come by and low cost.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

This is a pretty basic model, but I do like the full S trim level. This model does share the clocks and spoiler of the sportier version. The S trim comes with green clocks (including rev counter), spoiler and sport alloys. It has colour coded bumpers and bump strips.