1997 Seat Ibiza GTi Cupra Sport 8v review from UK and Ireland

The rear discs have been replaced twice, once under warranty. The front discs weren't replaced until 85,000 miles!

Driver door lock won't work with the key, a peril of using the remote central locking all the time.

Slight corrosion on the alloy wheels.

Side skirt jack point covers are very hard to refit successfully after the first removal.

Wow, what a fabulous car. 100% reliable, bearing in mind I've done 97000 miles now, fast, still looks like new and still has people commenting on it, even after 5 years.

I love everything about it and still glance back after I've locking it, sad I know!

The interior has worn exceptionally well, the orange glow clocks look great at night and the leather wheel, gear and handbrake levers all add to a lovely tactile experience. I have the copper body colour which is certainly the best choice.

Running costs are very low considering it's a GTi. I converted to LPG (liquid petroleum gas) 50,000 miles ago and now pay 35p a litre and still get 30mpg, so I'm getting the cost equivalant of 60mpg!

Insurance is fine, although I am 36 with a full no claims in the north of Scotland!

The biggest saving I can recommend is changing the tyres to 195/50 V15 from the standard size, they fit perfectly and only cost £160 a set of four, a fraction of the standard tyre price.

The only extras I have fitted are a 6 disc cd changer, K&N induction kit and I had the skirts and spoiler painted the body colour which really looks good for such a small outlay.

I usually change cars every 2 or 3 years, but I'm holding on to this one for good I think (and a Celica GT4 purchase is imminent to give me weekend thrills!)

I highly recommend a Cupra Sport, especially when you consider the current second hand prices. Buy one.