1988 Volkswagen Polo C review from UK and Ireland

Apart from what you would expect to have to repair or replace, IE. Cam belt, air filter there was nothing major when it came to this humble run around.

However after a 2 hour journey along the M3 clocking up to 90 Mph the cars engine did fail and as a result I did have a hole in the piston which meant a new engine.

I have to admit it was probably my fault for pushing this car so much.

When I saw this car it looked cheap and not very cheerful, however once I had got inside and got used to the rather high amounts of blind spots on the car I was soon to realize it was a fun and reliable tool.

For a start the 4-speed gearbox was easy to use and felt solid and rugid.

The engine was fantastic and very keen for a 1.0.

The handling was good, the car balances itself well round corners and you will very rarley get any loss of grip unless you really push it hard.

For a £250-400 car you really can't fault it.

If you are considering to buy one of these and you are sure it's a 'non-smoker' then go for it, you will only be pleasantly surprised.

One thing I must point out is that along with performance the engine does seem to be pretty thirsty for a humble 1 litre.