Nissan Micra (1993 - 2002) 1.3 Si 3d (1998/R) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I don't care what a car says about me.

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

Liked it but were concerned when the brakes started to give out.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No - but only because the 1993-2002 Micra is now rather aged and there are not many examples in good condition on the market. I don't like the shape of the new-model Micra. The problems with brakes on this car were a question of normal wear and tear and poor servicing, not a fault with the car, and the others I have owned or driven were reliable, good cars.

What are you likely to buy next?

Have already bought a second hand Ford Ka.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,200

When did you buy the car?

June 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

No, not at all - driver's side electric window broke down on second day I owned it, and the brakes started giving me problems from about the three month mark onwards. But you have to expect that kind of thing when you buy privately.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I had used or owned three Micras before and liked their handling and reliability.

What was the dealer like?

Dishonest in that he didn't tell me about the window. I can forgive the brakes because I think those were a problem that developed, which he didn't necessarily know about.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent - nippy, responsive steering, and lots of grip for zooming along small country lanes where I live. Like driving a go-kart. Lots of fun, though rather noisy at higher speeds.

What's it like to park?

A cinch.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes - brakes and driver's side electric window. Brakes started binding and it turned out (after much head-scratching and replacement of front discs etc) to have been the calipers needing replacing. This was uneconomical to fix.

What's most practical about your car?

Excellent fuel economy, 1.3 engine gives a bit of nip but also doesn't guzzle petrol.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

None - very basic trim levels. The radio?