Faults:

Replaced everything on this car except for the fuel pump, engine, and alternator. Heater core froze in the middle of a snow storm. It had a vacuum motor on the air cleaner that would go kaput every 40k. This would cause the carburetor to freeze. Bullet proof drive train.

Original clutch when sold at 168k. Bullet proof carburetor except for freeze issues in winter time. Very easy car to work on. Got me through college.

General Comments:

Reliable, most of the time. Good electronics.

Easy to repair.

Faults:

Well, since the car was modified (in 1991), the only things that have gone wrong were simple adjustments, which had to be made in order for it to run properly, such as re-jetting the carburetor. The worst thing that ever happened was when I replaced the lower ball joint and didn't seat the locking bolt properly. The joint let go when I was slowly pulling out of a gas station. It was an easy fix, though.

General Comments:

The Mk1 (1978-80) Ford Fiesta is a wonderfully engineered car, which is simple to work on. It has a bullet-proof 4 speed transmission and comes stock with an in-line 4 cylinder, all-iron, Formula Ford (Kent) racing engine. All 78-80 Fiestas have this engine! Once you get past the Fiestas problem areas (brakes and engine cooling), you'll have an indestructible and inexpensive little pocket rocket. There are a few companies which are still dedicated to selling Mk1 Fiesta parts. Parts are inexpensive and most are readily available.

Faults:

My fuel pump went bad.

My water pump went bad.

General Comments:

This is the first car I picked out for myself and it runs like a dream. I love my little red Fiesta.

I dont mind spending the money on parts for my car. I will spend whatever I need to keep my car running.