Ford Fiesta

[Trillipse]

I'm after a cheap little car (around �500-�600) and am looking at Fiestas circa 1994/5. Are they, in general, reliable?

[nic3c]

Fiestas are in general reliable, however it is more the age of the car/mileage that will affect it's reliability. Best to look for one with a mileage as low as possible. Also look at the history of the car...how recently it's had it's cam belt changed, if/how recently other parts have been changed, number of owners, etc...all cars of this age are eventually going to have things start going wrong with them.

[Superkev]

I have one and they are reliable. Plus they are cheap for spares. But as the above answer says best look for low mileage, etc. But other than that yep I'd say get one.

[derekpara]

Yes, reliable and cheap to run. Check oil filler cap for yellow 'mayonnaise.' While you're under the bonnet look for rust in the scuttle areas (both sides) up near the bonnet hinges. Not ON the hinges but in the corners of the scuttle area. Rust here will be an MOT failure. Make sure the vehicle has a recent MOT or get it done before purchase. I've had two Fiestas (G & H reg) and both proved to be very good runners - apart from the rust. Good luck !

[spaced]

I would tend to go towards a Fiat Punto 1.1 S or SX (M or N reg - '96-'97). Even though fiesta's are just as reliable as anyother, the Punto is generally a better looking car, internally and externally.