Yes the diesel uses a lot of complicated technology. The 1.6 petrol seems the best option- the 1.4 is underpowered- as it can do 115 mph and return 42 mpg, about the same as I get with the Almera, although this is a much better car.

I do find modern diesels to have become more complex but the consensus is a petrol Focus is an economical and good car. Also, is it true the timing belt lasts for 100,000 miles?

I suspect that Glenn senior remembered Fords from the 50s and 60s which were pigs to start, hot or cold, and were built down to a price - often known as Dagenham dustbins.

They got a lot more reliable in the 70s, and then Richard Parry-Jones came in and designed Fords that were also great to drive.

Not good value new as (simply because there are lots around) they lose value fast, but if you're buying secondhand a Ford should be on every shortlist.

He had a 1978 Escort 1.3 L which he found heavy on petrol, difficult to start and basic and overpriced for the money. However, this was 30 years ago and life has moved on. The last 10 years have seen massive advances in design, engine refinement and reliability at Ford. I know Which used to class them as poor in reliability surveys in the nineties, but now mark Fords as good.

What are tempting are a brace of 08 plate Fiestas on sale at Arnold Clarks for six grand. I'm not that bothered about downsizing as I've done this before and the main interest for me would be the cars would still have a year left on their warranty, won't need an MOT for twelve months and usually come with a service- all bill savers.