The windshield washer pump stopped functioning within a year of purchase.
The air conditioner went out and had to be recharged. The fan that pumps the air works only on high.
The front brake pads, rotors, and calipers wore out.
The exhaust system (muffler, resonator pipe) had to be replaced at 60,000 miles.
The car gets great gas mileage, even in the city. And it's perfect for city driving as you can park it anywhere!
On longer trips, its only drawback is the lack of cruise control. I've moved across the country several times with a lot of stuff packed in the car (it runs a little slower then, but is still fine).
The ride is a little bumpy, especially for passengers in the back seat. The engine noise inside can be substantial (it is sometimes hard to hear music).
The interior is much roomier than you'd expect. And the back seat folds down so more can be stored in the trunk.
You say the engine is noisey, try using a synthetic or synthetic-blend oil. I have a three-cylinder Metro and doing that quieted it well. I use Mobil 5W/30 synthetic-blend.
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