Ford Puma

FOR: Sharp drive, practical, cheapest to buy AGAINST: Rust problems, gutless 1.4 engine

MANY disregard the Ford Puma as merely a Fiesta with a pretty body, but it’s far more than that. Those in the know hail it as one of the best-value driver’s cars around, with an entertaining and agile chassis, plus decent performance – provided you avoid the underpowered 1.4-litre engine and go for the 1.7.

It doesn’t feel as racy as the MR2, and lacks the MX-5’S fun factor, but we found a tidy 2001 example with 61,000 miles on the clock for just £995.

THE Puma’s cabin isn’t the most special place to sit, with the layout and switchgear borrowed from the Fiesta. But it’s the only car here with a pair of rear seats, and the 241-litre boot is the biggest of the trio.

OVER the near-20 years it’s been on sale, the Ford has proven fairly reliable. Watch for engines with low oil levels, although the biggest Puma killer is rust – particularly in the sills and wheelarches.