Ford Focus Hatchback (1998 - 2004) 1.6 Zetec 5d (01) (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Unpretentious. Just gets on with it without any fuss. Versatile and mild-mannered.

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

Very little comment passed. Obviously jealous.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, yes, yes! Except they stopped making them 12 years ago.

What are you likely to buy next?

I hope to drive this one forever. The Mk3 Focus (or Volvo V40) just isn't as spacious. Probably a Focus Estate.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,500

When did you buy the car?

January 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

Good price for car, but in-house finance was expensive.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

No, but it was available that day, low mileage and i previous owner. Plus I liked it.

What was the dealer like?

Okay. I had used him for years.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent on twisty country roads and comfortable at 70 on the motorway. Sublimely easy to drive. Goes where I want it to. Good ventilation and heating system.

What's it like to park?

Probably fine, but my spatial awareness is the problem. Others appear to park their's easily.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Water hose housing and thermostat needed replace last month, but as car is 12 years old I can't complain. Driver's window broke during freeze, but was probably my fault as tired to use it before thawed (I guess).

What's most practical about your car?

Deceptively useful and large interior space. I can fit 2 standard-size wheelie-bins into it (with the back seats down obviously). Can take 2 dogs (1 medium 1 larger) comfortably. It has more interior space that my sister's Skoda Fabia Estate. Heated windscreen. Easy to service.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Heated windscreen.