1996 Ford Escort Cabaret review from UK and Ireland
"Nippy bargain let down by niggling faults"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Driver's seat sagging and uncomfortable.
Brakes squeal even when the brakes are not applied. This sound disappears when the brakes are applied. By coincidence the brakes are also INCREDIBLY spongy.
Car pulls to the left under hard braking.
Speedo wobbles around the 30-40 mark.
Boot leak.
Rusting driver's side rear wheel arch cost 140 pounds to repair.
General comments?
Good performance from 1600cc 16v Zetec Engine, although very little low-down torque. Engine rough above 3500rpm and slow to rev.
Lovely gearbox compared to my last car. Changes are smooth, easy and positive, except getting it into reverse, which can be a pain unless the car is doing under 1000 revs.
Comfort in general is good apart from limited rear space and unsupportive driver's seat. Great driving position though.
An ergonomic masterpiece, all control are at hand, but the stereo is too close to the gear lever.
Firm, comfortable ride even with low-profile tyres. Handles like a go kart, the steering is super responsive, but far too vague for any real fun.
Loads of wind and road noise at 80mph on the motorway, stick to 70 and turn up the radio.
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| A lot of car for your money |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Zetec Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 71000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 74000 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall Astra |
| Date of Entry | 11th July, 2004 |