A RECENT mystery shopping exercise highlighted that Ford main dealers around the country offer some of the best prices on servicing deals.
Even more recently, I noticed some interesting things about Fiesta prices in relation to the quality of the cars. Since 1999, the build quality has been strong. Since 2002 the styling has matched it and there is no debate about the usefulness of Ford's engine units.
So, if you have a budget of anything from £1,200 to £8,500 there is a quality little Fiesta for your budget that can be run for peanuts. Here's my pick of each generation.
Ford Fiesta 1999-2002
A buy on price rather than ability. But a great little car to drive and being a Fiesta it is very cheap to run. These pre-2002 models are now very cheap.
Most economical : 1.8 TD
Best used buy: 1999 1.4 LX has air conditioning and nippy engine.
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 26
Used Car Expert magazine guide price: Year 2000 1.4 petrols with average mileage of 49,000 (about 20,000 less than the equivalent diesels) is yours for £1,700 up. Three doors more expensive than five doors.
Ford Fiesta 2002-2008
The Fiesta has always been good to drive but this model was usefully larger then previous ones. Depreciation is steep which is good for used buyers and there are always plenty to choose from.
Most economical :1.4 TDCI
Best used buy: 1.3 petrol
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 11
Used Car Expert magazine guide price: Year 2005 1.3 Studios or Zetecs can be found for £3,700 with just 36,460 average miles.
Ford Fiesta 2008-present
Economical to buy, run and maintain, but this is also a Fiesta with personality, at last. A striking, modern design that marks this out as a young person's car, while still having broad and popular appeal.
Most economical : 1.4 TDCI
Best used buy: 1.2 petrol
Used Car Expert magazine guide price: Too soon to say.
Used Car Expert magazine guide price: You can buy a new 1.2 Zetec under scrappage, or an ex demo with 3,000 miles from £8,800. Which is nearly £2,000 under list price too.