Faults:

Cassette player began chewing up cassettes before being replaced at 28,000 miles.

Heater failed at 33,000 miles.

Gear selector cable broke at 36,000 miles.

General Comments:

Had faults with stereo, heater and gearbox.

Otherwise the Escort gave me two years of trouble-free ownership.

I also appreciated its smooth ride, splendid handling, comfortable interior and inexpensive running costs.

A bit on the expensive side to buy, at £3,000 for a two year old medium hatchback.

Held its value well.

Sold for £2,000 when it was four years and had clocked up 40,000 miles.

Faults:

Heater failed at 59,000 miles.

Car became very rattly soon after I bought it.

Driver's door handle fell off at 70,000 miles.

Interior became increasingly damp during final few months of ownership.

General Comments:

Comfortable, reliable, economical and good to drive.

As comfortable as a lounge at Buckingham Palace and would go to the moon and back on a tankful of fuel without breaking down. Handling and performance excellent for a 1.3 engine.

Bought for £1,250 when it was seven years old. Two years later I sold it for £750 and I can honestly say that it was a bargain.