Faults:

Electric Windows stick, but sorted it out with some grease.

Central storage box hinge broke (made of plastic), but repaired myself by using a brass hinge, works fine now.

Dashboard storage box hinge also broke. Unable to repair, will need to find a new one, but I will not bother.

Apart from a few small interior problems, this car is, and so far always has been, in perfect running order.

General Comments:

This car is a hidden gem among "hot hatches". The 111bhp, of the 1.6 16v engine, can really provide a great punch for overtaking and general showing off!

Not to mention, this car boasts an amazing 6500 RPM redline, so you can take this car up to some lovely revs. The engine makes a very loud grunt when driving, at times sounding like a turbo diesel, but in a GOOD way. Top speeds of 120mph have been reached quite easily, but too scared to go any higher!

For a 1.6 litre engine, this car has got some great power under the bonnet.

The interior is acceptable. It's a light Grey interior, slightly plastic (Japanese) and the Mirage trim offers a "nice" fake wood-effect dashboard.

Seats are nice velor and are extremely comfortable, but not much room in the back seats.

Comes with electric windows, electric sunroof (very nice) and loads of extra little features.

Replaced old stereo speakers (4 x 5w speakers!) with some better quality ones, but generally the sound system is quite good.

Plenty of boot space, especially if the seats are put down completely flat, loads of room for luggage etc.

Handling could be slightly better, suspension is a bit too soft. Had to buy some new and better tires to improve handling at higher speeds.

Loud inside cabin when driving at higher speeds, might have to raise voice at other passengers to converse.

In conclusion it's a fantastic car that is definitely fun to drive. Can be very economical, but temptations make the fuel go down quite rapidly :)

Faults:

Rocker cover leaked because someone overtightened one of the nuts, causing permanent deformation. Needed replacement.

Slight speckled surface rust on corner of each door.

General Comments:

Engine sings above 5000rpm.

Poor comfort on long motorway trips, better set up for country lanes.

Steering feels very direct.

If you race this car, fuel economy suffers seriously.

Body panels dent very easily & paint chips easily.