Ford Focus Estate (1998 - 2004) 1.6 CL 5d (10/01) Owner Review

This car was never on my radar when I was looking to buy a (second-hand) family car. Certainly not one 12 years old. However, at only £1000, with just over 33K on the clock, one owner and full service, it was worth a look. I'm not a car-nut but the drive and comfort of the vehicle is excellent. It doesn't matter if I'm stop/starting around town or doing a 4 hour run to the coast; it handles well, accelerates fine, and brakes excellently - as attested to by watching my other half perform a stunning 80-10mph emergency braking - all wheels smoking - exercise, when a drongo pulled out onto the A303 in front of us. Best of all I can fit a 9' foot surf board inside (or a few on the roof) along with assorted bikes and kit for weekends away, the cabin is spacious with good all-round visibility, including in the rear seats (much appreciated by kids - since most modern cars stuff up their views out the windows with 'design-over-function' C and D pillars). The load space is very practical, with simple, fold-flat seat mechanisms, so great for carrying equipment etc.