Very few problems, only major expense was MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor blew causing the engine management system to go awry. Not a cheap part -> £150 from the main dealer and not the sort of thing you want from a breakers yard.
Other than that, just servicing. Engine needs a tune and the timing chain probably needs changing again (should be done every 50,000 on this engine).
Loads of low end grunt, gets harsh over 4,500 rpm, still a quick car.
Good levels of equipment and comfort.
Not as good as Pinto engined cars for modifying, but 170bhp is possible for under £1k.
50,000 miles is a little over-conservative for changing the cam chain on this motor, you should start looking at it at around 75k. The chain on this engine will tell you when it needs some attention and will never fail suddenly without warning you first, if you ever hear any whirring or tapping from the front of the engine then it's probably time.
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