1997 Ford Ka 3 review from UK and Ireland

Earth failure on the rear hatch causing the rear wiper and window heater to fail.

Heater relay pack in the footwell burnt out - probably trodden on by child's size 10 shoes - poorly sited.

Rust in the door frame edges - in the line of fire from road grit thrown up by the front wheels - should be protected by plastic covers.

Rear silencer detached from the exhaust pipe.

Speed sensor for the engine management system failed, causing the car to fail to slow down when your foot is taken off the accelerator - THIS IS A SERIOUS FAULT.

Driver's door lock fell out.

Alloy wheels weld themselves on to the hubs making them almost impossible to remove on the roadside. Can be prevented by using silicone grease on surfaces.

Rear side window fixing studs are rusting.

Body panels very easily dented.

Alloy wheels easily damaged by pot holes.

Unimpressive fuel consumption for a small car with a small engine.

Gutless performance especially when the air-con is turned on - need to turn the air-con off if anything like spritely acceleration is needed.

Lots of style and quite fun to drive, but spoilt by an ancient engine, poor design and crap build quality.