Ford Fiesta 1989
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    1.6 engine, power steering, electric windows and a sunroof and these only go for about a grand these days...

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    If things go wrong find the parts yourself. I had to pay a lot for a window motor from Ford. They can also drink a lot of petrol!

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Handles really well, acceleration could be better in lower gears but it flies between 30-70 mph. Ride is very stiff and bumpy compared to larger Fords but handling is improved.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Struggles to out-accelerate other cars but will catch them in the long run. 90bhp and weighs just under 1000kg so pretty fast!

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Hasn't let me down yet apart from a few cosmetic things eg. window winder, rev counter

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    still looks like a modern car even though it's ten years old. Smooth bumpers look better than those on the XR/RS Models.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Great soft bucket seats and tasteful trim, plus all the electric gizmos and sunroof.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Has an immobilizer but the factory fitted alarm was broken before I bought it. Best off buying an aftermarket alarm.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    None at all, do it yourself with a Haynes manual!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Didn't put enough of the right oil in which made it rattle and used up all the coolant - use Ford recommended oil!

    Other

    Exhaust needed replacing just after I got it.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes