1995 Fiat Cinquecento Sporting review from UK and Ireland

The rear suspension turret on the drivers side needed welding for the MOT, as it was quite badly corroded.

This caused the spring on this corner to warp, and thus the car didn't sit quite right on the road.

Various electrical problems, ranging from the central locking to the indicators.

Drivers seat has worn terribly, as has the gearknob and steering wheel.

Bought this car as a cheap runabout between VWs. A few mates have owned this type of Fiat and said how much fun they are to drive, and I needed a car for work, so I thought why not.

I was expecting the car to be a bit worn out, as it's a Fiat and they are not generally known for being the best built cars, and the interior certainly proved this! I found the car to be uncomfortable on longer journeys, and the small fuel tank means a few petrol stops on the way.

To drive it's good fun, considering the small engine. Although on the other hand this does mean of course the running costs are minimal, the insurance group being one of the lowest around.

Very good handling, especially as mine was fitted with 14in wheels and much wider tyres.

The gearbox is okay, but occasionally can be temperamental when changing fast or selecting reverse.

The body of the car was in pretty good shape considering the age, the front and rear bumpers were repainted by the previous owner which helped. The paintwork isn't the best however with a couple of spots where it's 'orange peeled'.

For the money you can't really beat one of these, but don't expect it to be free of faults obviously. But for laughter per pound it's a winner!!