IDENTITY
Never a number one for joyriders or ringers ( it would take far too much effort to fake an ST220 to be worthwhile), the sporty Mondeo nevertheless needs a history check if only to ensure there’s no outstanding finance. Similarly, it’s wise to make sure you’re not buying a repaired accident write- off that’s on the register, with appropriately lower value. You’ll also want to ensure the car you’re buying is the spec you’re looking for. Original ST220s ( until June 2003) were fitted with a five-cog MTX75 gearbox, whereas the facelifted version gained a six-speed MMT6. Six-speed cars also feature the updated fascia layout rather than piano-black trim, and generally boasted more kit (cruise control, auto wipers and lights, multi-position electric seat adjustment etc) and a better ECU.
Remember that although all ST220s are pricey to run ( keen drivers average mpg figures in the low 20s), cars registered after March 2006 are in a higher road tax bracket, emptying your pockets substantially more each year.
Finally, if you see a car with a noisy engine, unrefined ride/handling, cloth trim and single exhaust pipe, it’s not an ST220 – it’s an ST TDCi. There’s no such thing as an ST220 diesel!