Does the job nicely (Ford Fiesta LX in general)

Name: ruclick

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Product:	Ford Fiesta LX in general
Date:	21/10/02 (832 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Handling and ride, Easy of driving, Economy

Disadvantages: Poor spec, Rear seat space, Road noise at speed

My model is a 97 P Fiesta LX with the 1.3 petrol engine. It was bought used at 3 1/2 years old with approx. 40000 miles. The car does 60 miles daily commuting daily plus the occasional trip around town.

Reliability and Quality
No issues here - the car has not seen the workshop other than for normal servicing. Starts first time in all weather conditions, even when parked outside. The only small problem was an over-eager cooling system, meaning that the engine never reached full operating temperature (especially noticeable in winter!). Having been quoted in excess of £80 for an investigation, I decided to make a start myself by changing the cooling system thermostat (and no, I am NOT a mechanic!). 10 minutes and less than £10 for a new thermostat, and everything was fine.

Performance
Others may disagree, but I find the 60bhp 1.3 perfectly adequate, even on dual carriageways where the car cruises comfortably at speed. Acceleration is surprisingly good for a car with this size engine, especially in the 0-40 range; beyond that, it needs to be worked a bit harder.

Ease of driving
Thankfully, this is a light car, so the absence of power assisted steering is less of an issue. It only really becomes noticeable when parking - as soon as the car is in motion, it's no problem. Other than that, it's very easy, with a simple, logical interior layout and good alround visibility. The car is predictable in all driving situations and offers suprising levels of cornering ability.

Space
This is a small hatchback, remember, so do not expect miracles. Whilst the driver and front passenger enjoy ample space, things are a bit tight in the back. Since my car is mainly used for commuting, however, this is not a real problem. The boot is surprisingly generous for a car this size, and with the rear seats down you even get some load carrying cability. Don't forget that this is still a small car - families look elsewhe
re.

Comfort
This is back-to-basics motoring, my friend, and don't ask me what the LX model offers over and above the base model. Maybe the sunroof... No aircon, no electric anything. Just basic car. The ride, however, is very agreeable, and paired with comfortable seats makes for good short to medium distance travelling. On longer distances, some may find tyre and wind noise a bit on the harsh side...

Economy and value for money
On my daily commute (which is 50% dual carriage way, 25% town and 25% A-road), the car returns about 48mpg, making for a touring range of about 320 miles. Not too bad... Insurance is nice and low. Servicing is every 10,000 miles and costs about £100.

Summary
Reliable, enjoyable low-budget motoring that is only slightly spoiled by low-spec trim and road noise at higher speeds.

Summary: