1988 Ford Fiesta Ghia review from UK and Ireland

Chassis rails rotted.

Both sills rotted.

Boot floor rotted.

Brake master cylinder leak.

Rear wheel cylinder burst.

Exhaust fell off.

Throttle cable snapped.

I bought this Fiesta as a 1.1 for £700 in February 2000 after I blew the engine on my first Fiesta.

It was in very good condition for its age and had a very low mileage of only 53000, although I have pushed it up to 90000 in just under 2 years.

Seeing as I have done a lot of miles in such a relatively short time, the car has never really let me down majorly, just minor bits and bobs here and there which I fixed myself.

The one downfall was the corrosion, which seems to be a problem for all Fiestas, and in the same spots. Mine has now been welded (by myself) in every mark 2 rot spot.

I decided to replace the 1.1 4-speed lump for a 1.3 5-speed from an Escort I picked up for £20, as all my driving is on dual carriageways and motorways, but I am only 19 so wanted to keep insurance costs low.

The car is extremely comfortable on any type of journey and the velour trim is very hard wearing. I often do 150 mile trips in this car and it doesn't bat an eyelid and I never get uncomfortable.