Ford Puma (1997 - 2002) 1.7i 16V 3d (2000/V) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I'm at the hot hatch price point but want something with a little more form and sophistication.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Women like it and frequently comment on it. Men are neutral or think it's a more female car.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No - through this car I've discovered I prefer a larger and heavier coupe. I can think of a few people that might buy it off me though!
What are you likely to buy next?
I'm moving to London so may not buy a car for a period of time. After that, maybe a 99-06 Celica, an MX-5 or even a BMW 8 Series if funds allow.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£500
When did you buy the car?
February 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
I take a car expert with me every time I buy a car and he thought it was on the money.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
My old car (1996 Toyota Celica GT) had failed its MoT and I wanted something inexpensive that was still a bit sporty - and not a hatchback.
What was the dealer like?
Young - he'd just bought a diesel which would be more efficient for the miles he drove. I can claim a lot of my mileage on expenses so it doesn't matter to me.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Nippy - "like a toy car" according to my girlfriend. Surprisingly heavy steering and clutch for the size, though, and this makes it less fun to drive in town though it remains very easy to control. On the other hand its small size is an asset in urban areas but not ideal for cruising at motorway high speeds - in high winds it can feel like it will be blown off the road.
What's it like to park?
Easy due to its size - it'll fit in almost anywhere. Watch the poor rear visibility, though.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
When I bought it we spotted a small radiator leak and an intermittent brake light. Apart from that, nothing has gone wrong yet.
What's most practical about your car?
Surprisingly large boot for such a small car. Also easy to park and manoeuvre due to its size.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
It's a pretty standard spec. I do like the retro green glowing dials - makes a change from most cars.
