Faults:

Only maintenance parts like brakes (replaced once only).

Timing belt, which was due a change.

Nothing much has actually "gone wrong" with the car at all, it's been running for over 20,000 miles with a crack in the engine casing, so can't fault it at all!

General Comments:

For a 1.3, it is very nippy, and considering it's done 128k, the engine has done very well to still have this power!

It still looks great even now, and looks sporty with its spoiler, the seats are comfortable enough, and the car is very easy to maintain. I have changed lots on the car (for aesthetic purposes only) like new panels, and it is so easy to do!

Probably the best car I will ever own for the cost!

Faults:

The clutch was replaced about 2 years ago.

The winding mechanism on the drivers door failed (common problem).

Sometimes the rear demister doesn't switch on.

General Comments:

The car is pretty basic in equipment; no PAS, ABS or electric windows.

However I paid 750 pounds for this car 5 years ago, and have only had to replace tyres, back box of the exhaust, and the clutch.

I have put 55000 miles on the car in those 5 years, and it has never failed to start. The engine is quite responsive, but can be a bit thirsty sometimes.

Noisy on the motorway, but around town it's great.

Faults:

Oil Filter came loose and was dripping Oil - Fixed simply by tightening.

Drivers side window seal loosened resulting in water getting into window electrics. Had to be replaced.

General Comments:

The car is very quick for the small engine. (84bhp with a 1.3 engine) although it can struggle with some weight. I've had it top out about 118mph on flat road, not sure what downhill would be.

The pace however is wasted by the fact the car has extremely thin wheels and suffers from the extreme ability to wheel spin on almost every quick pull away.

Engine is a tad noisy at higher speeds giving the feeling of "being in a too lower gear".

Car can be very inconsistent on fuel consumption but averages about 41mpg.

Very spacey inside, with ample room for 5.

Very cheap to run and parts aren't that expensive either.

Faults:

Absolutely nothing. I have had to replace two tyres since purchasing this car.

General Comments:

It is a cheap car to run, extremely reliable, and the automatic gearbox handles beautifully.

The only downside is that you have to lock your own doors, and wind your own windows, but saying that, it does make it a more secure car.

Faults:

Both front window regulators (electric) have needed replacing (£50 each), apparently very common on these cars!

Front brakes made squeaking sound when turning - replaced front discs and pads (general wear and tear) - £70.

Slight tappety noise when cold, disappears when warm - according to my mechanic this is due to 'lazy tappets' - will try an engine flush to see if I can solve this.

Gear linkage ever so slightly worn, but still fine to drive.

Aside from this no problems whatsoever always started rain or shine.

General Comments:

Off the mark this car is actually pretty nippy, it loves to rev and actually feels rather sporty (suspension is upgraded from normal Accents so is harder, but means handling is good)

This willingness to rev however means that it is tiring on the motorway on long trips - 70mph sees nearly 4,000 rpm! It can get a little bit thirsty when travelling long distances at high speed solely due to this low gearing, however it is not designed to be a motorway cruiser!

You don't buy one of these for the comfort - it rattles and shakes over bumps - despite this it is hugely fun to drive and you always feel like you are going faster than you actually are!

The car looks good in silver with spoiler with brake light, side skirts and alloy wheels as standard. The sunroof glass panel actually comes out completely - ideal for the summer! (watch out though as the metal surround does tend to rust)

Insurance and general running costs are great - Group 7 insurance for a car with 98bhp is superb and fuel economy overall is good also. Ideal for a younger driver like myself. I am 20 and chose this over the obvious choice of a Saxo VTR as I fancied something a bit different and was pleasantly surprised!