• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It really is quite an understatement.

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

    Neighbours really love the car - one in particular saying that it's amazing the car starts first time compared to other much newer cars requiring longer start-ups. Friends love to travel in it and love the car as well. We as a family call the car 'Doris' as a nickname.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    I might buy this car again because they are plenty around and are selling for peanuts and the reliability is to a very high standard. However, I would have to purchase one with power steering if any of the models come with it and a five door version would be more practical because it is very awkward for me to get out the back and I'm only 5ft 11.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I think a newer hatchback like the Peugeot 106 or Citroen Saxo are good more modern alternatives.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    October 2006

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    It was given to us after a relative died.

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    2 out of 5 2.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It has quite a lot of engine noise as it 'whistles' along the road. It has a four speed gearbox and when it reaches higher speeds it longs for a fifth gear. It is quite low to the ground and you can certainly feel the bumps from the road hit the car with great force.

    What's it like to park?

    The car is quite small but the turning circle of the car isn't very good at all and without power steering is very challenging to park but will increase the size of the muscles in your arms before long.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Since the car was first purchased by my grandfather nothing was said about anything going wrong. Since we have had the car only an exhaust bracket needed replacing. However, the 16 year old car has only achieved 37,000 miles.

    What's most practical about your car?

    It's a car that is very economical and therefore it is practical for little upkeep. It is also relatively spacious for a hatchback and quite accessible with large doors for the 3-door version.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    I'm afraid the LS model is one of the very basics and probably the left wing mirror counted as an accessory.