Ford Fiesta For Sale - Used Ford Fiesta

Why buy one?

A used Ford Fiesta is one of the best small cars you can buy, and you won't have to spend much to put one on your drive.

The previous model (02-08) is the one which is around in large numbers on the second-hand market. It's great fun to drive and won't cost much to keep on the road.

The new Ford Fiesta (08-) is a real star, though. Every bit as lively as the old car, but more refined and more spacious, it's the one to go for once it appears on the second-hand market in greater numbers.

Either way there's a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines. Unless you're a high-mileage driver, the petrol models are the ones to go for. They're cheaper to buy and still cover a lot of miles on a gallon.

Why think twice?

There are bigger and more spacious superminis than a second-hand Ford Fiesta, such as the Renault Clio or the Vauxhall Corsa. The new-shape Fiesta is more competitive on space, but still isn't one of the largest superminis for people or luggage.

The old-shape Fiesta was rather drab inside - something else the new model puts right.

How safe?

The previous Ford Fiesta scored four out of five when assessed by crash test experts Euro NCAP in 2002. The new model scored five out of five when tested in 2008.

Curtain airbags and stability control are not standard on most models, so if you want these items check the specification carefully before you buy.

What might go wrong?

A used Ford Fiesta is generally robust and shouldn't give much trouble. The instrument panel has been known to fail on the 02-08 Fiesta but mechanical parts are pretty tough. If attention is needed, parts are cheap. Your local garage should be familiar with the Fiesta so there's no need to pay main dealer prices.

The current car is a little too new to assess its reliability, but it shares many parts with the Mazda 2 which is a good sign.

What do the experts say?

'Low running costs make it a low-risk buy.' Whatcar.com

Anything else I should know?

There's a specialist owners' club at www.fiestaclubgb.co.uk.

If you like the Ford Fiesta but want a more upright seating position, try the Ford Fusion . It's a very similar car under the skin.

Which one should I buy?

• Greenest? Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Econetic
• Fastest? Ford Fiesta 2.0 ST
• Best? Ford Fiesta 1.25i Zetec