I BOUGHT A FORD FOCUS FOR £150

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ธ.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 1.1K

  • @hazelab181
    @hazelab181 2 ปีที่แล้ว +882

    "How spoilt we are in the UK, everybody wants the newest and the latest where anywhere else in the world this car would be on the road for another decade", is the most accurate statement describing our cars in the Philippines.

    • @iainmclaughlan1557
      @iainmclaughlan1557 2 ปีที่แล้ว +47

      My family car is 22 years and 7 months old, I love it. Nissan Primera

    • @bahribesimoglu1305
      @bahribesimoglu1305 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      And Turkey

    • @kb9072
      @kb9072 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      A trouble is the Government is forcing us in the London area to buy newer with ULEZ. I'm sure other Cities will follow suit.

    • @HandsUpforThePanther
      @HandsUpforThePanther 2 ปีที่แล้ว +58

      its such a shame, it really is and it makes me sad that people are scarping a perfectly good car that could last them years. New cars aren't always better.

    • @kb9072
      @kb9072 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      @@HandsUpforThePanther
      It's a tax. Hurts the poorer people harder. The lowest impact to the environment are the cars that are already built.

  • @NGMonocrom
    @NGMonocrom 2 ปีที่แล้ว +66

    As a Ukranian myself, just wanted to say Thank you for helping out. Please know it is very much appreciated. God bless you, Matt!

  • @Mechanikool8
    @Mechanikool8 2 ปีที่แล้ว +103

    When I was saving for a house, my Corsa dropped a valve. Had to pick up something cheap quickly. Bought a 2003 MK1 Focus with 60k miles and it's by far (pound for pound) the best car I've owned and probably the best investment I've made. Fortunately now a home owner and the focus is still going strong 💪🏼

    • @HighPeakAutos
      @HighPeakAutos  2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Congrats on the house

    • @ericgeorge5483
      @ericgeorge5483 2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@HighPeakAutos No, congrats on the Focus!

    • @Stevesixty7
      @Stevesixty7 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I had a 2002 Ghia, it was lovely inside and out. Unfortunately the rust killed it, every mot was worse than the last. Brilliant car to drive though. I have an 11 plate now.

    • @Mechanikool8
      @Mechanikool8 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Stevesixty7 understandable... Looked underneath mine yesterday and every component was golden brown 😂

    • @ericgeorge5483
      @ericgeorge5483 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Stevesixty7 I wish I had kept my 2009 econetic. It was super cheap to run and really nice to drive.

  • @iandonkin6762
    @iandonkin6762 2 ปีที่แล้ว +289

    The original Focus redefined handling dynamics in its class - they were brilliant!

    • @Jabber-ig3iw
      @Jabber-ig3iw 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      I had an ‘03 ST170 and whilst underpowered the handling was immense. Lift off oversteer around roundabouts was huge fun, yes it did turn me into a hooligan. I traded it in for an Alfa 166 with the Busso V6.

    • @greigmackay8465
      @greigmackay8465 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@Jabber-ig3iw a good friend of mine had the rarer st170 estates. He had it from new, and had it for years. Xenon lights, heated seats etc. It was a nice car. The old getrag 5 speed gearbox was an oddity in it as the gearing was so tall. Also the engine only really liked super unleaded. He has since moved onto Octava TSi DSG estates but always makes reference as to how well the st170 handled.

    • @shieldaigbencher
      @shieldaigbencher 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      No they weren’t I had a turbo diesel which the boot had to be kicked past the bumper to close it and the tdi had no traction control so would wheel spin in 5th in the wet. Aweful car.badly built, terrible engine, no boost, no boost, then suddenly loads of boost wheel spin, no grip, no grip. Then, either crash or get lucky. Honestly, I would rather walk. What should you do with a car like that? Find the nearest deepest local river and send it. And don’t look back.

    • @Jabber-ig3iw
      @Jabber-ig3iw 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@shieldaigbencher well don’t buy a car with a tractor engine, that was your mistake, the petrols were fantastic especially the ST170.

    • @shieldaigbencher
      @shieldaigbencher 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Jabber-ig3iw I didn't buy it actually, I was given it as a replacement for my Disco3 which was in for some warranty work. Decent small hatchback though to be fair.

  • @ianfrost3529
    @ianfrost3529 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    My auntie as a 52 plate 5 door hatchback 1.6 ghia which she’s had from new.
    I took for MOT couple months ago the car as only done 40k. The mot tester said it’s the cleanest one he as seen for a long time.
    I forgot how well these mk1 focus drives. great video

  • @tonydolton4544
    @tonydolton4544 2 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    I remember when these first came out and set it apart from the rest, it looked really futuristic and different form the square designs of the time. One of the best cars ever made.

  • @BOD98
    @BOD98 2 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    My first car was a 2004 Ford Focus Edge 3 Door 1.6L Petrol and I absolutely loved it. These are fantastic cars and even today still drive well. Good buy Matt!

  • @jereu6181
    @jereu6181 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    This car is an absolute gem. I'm currently rocking a nearly 30 year old Fiat Uno that on servicing cost €200 for a new mirror, left swing arm, master brake cylinder, master clutch cylinder, slave clutch cylinder, fuel filter, air filter, and oil filter. Absolutely mental that it cost peanuts to bring this old piece of history back to life whilst a mirror on a new car can cost €700+ alone.

    • @davidparsons97
      @davidparsons97 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I bought an '04 Mk1 facelift as my first car and it was reliable throughout the time I owned it. 6 total owners 125,128 miles by time of scrapping. I will admit I thashed it, but the only thing that broke was the clutch slave and the brakes by the end. It was also the vehicle that I was stupid enough to lose my licence in by speeding twice. The only reason it was scrapped was rust, as I was happy enough to keep it whilst I retook my test.

  • @malibayman
    @malibayman 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Here in the Philippines, that car is still going for £2,500 but we don't have anything like an MOT here.

  • @Poorlybobsdad
    @Poorlybobsdad 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    We had a 52 plate Focus for years. It never let us down and only ever needed a service and tyres. I gave it a new bigger than standard battery and it seemed to cheer up and felt good as new again. Great car 👍🏻

  • @scrapyardwarriorvlogging
    @scrapyardwarriorvlogging 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I remember when they were launched in 1998, and going to my local Ford dealer to get a brochure, price list and an interactive CD which was a mini-game of sorts. These are still a brilliant drive and stick to the road like glue. Worth every penny of £150.

  • @gg_vard
    @gg_vard 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a 2000 Focus 1.6 petrol, here in Greece as a first car
    And so happy with it!

  • @ItsDanLatham
    @ItsDanLatham 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I wanted one of these for my first car but couldn’t afford to insure it at the time. Ended up with an Ibiza 1.2 that had a knackered clutch release bearing and that would violently pop out of 5th gear on the motorway. I LOVED it. A first car is always a best friend.

  • @felixlieter1429
    @felixlieter1429 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Had a 2000 reg, 2 door Focus for 12 years. U never forget your first love.

  • @LU4101
    @LU4101 2 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    These old Mk1s are absolutely brilliant cars for the money. They still compete with modern hatchbacks in terms of how well they drive, especially with lots of new ones moving away from independent rear suspension in all but the sporty models to save on costs!

    • @scottykilmer3920
      @scottykilmer3920 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Those Zetec Se engines are very reliable, i have one with 430.000 km on it, and the engine still sounds very clean without any rattles or something.
      i cant say the same for a Golf 4 with only 160.000km on it, those engines are one big crapp.

    • @Bullet-Tooth-Tony-
      @Bullet-Tooth-Tony- 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@scottykilmer3920 Whats a good beginners car to buy, i've just passed my driving test

    • @Solo-vs2vk
      @Solo-vs2vk 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Bullet-Tooth-Tony- buy an Mk1 Ford Focus with the zetec. They’re still pretty cheap in today’s market. Mine has been super reliable, but if anything breaks it’s easy to work on and parts are still readily available. The Mk1 focus’s don’t have transmission problems like the later models do.

    • @Bullet-Tooth-Tony-
      @Bullet-Tooth-Tony- 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Solo-vs2vk Cheers fella

  • @simon1066
    @simon1066 2 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Ford make great cars. The Focus is one of their best, good value, reliable and cheap to own. Very good of you Matt to look for a worthy owner. This one will keep someone and their family mobile 👏👏👏

    • @simon1066
      @simon1066 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jjr1728 Politics in the true sense, have to do with the prosperity, peace and security of the people

    • @gravemind6536
      @gravemind6536 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      They're Daggenham Dustbins

    • @simon1066
      @simon1066 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@gravemind6536 not made in “Daggenham”

    • @gravemind6536
      @gravemind6536 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@simon1066 Still the same shody cars though

    • @Matty12333
      @Matty12333 ปีที่แล้ว

      They are reliable and good to drive yes, and cheap to repair

  • @jamesrobinson9194
    @jamesrobinson9194 2 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    We need more of this content Matt.

  • @SA-zoom1
    @SA-zoom1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    I remember driving a 1 year old Focus 1.6 Zetec hire car and I was shocked. It might not have been quick but it rode better, braked better, handled better and was much more fun than any hot hatch you could think of. I owned a very souped up Mk1 Golf Gti (that I had spent silly money on) at the time and it felt like a broken wheelbarrow after driving a Focus. 😳

    • @Google_Does_Evil_Now
      @Google_Does_Evil_Now 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I think the Golf is overrated. I remember hearing how great they were then I actually got into one and I was so underwhelmed. Even the mirrors were in a silly location set 1/3 along the front door where they had a triangle window joining up with main square window. They were still using 2 windows in the front door! It just looked like the previous decade and cheap and just ordinary. Average, not technically advanced. What was the fuss about?
      I had been in an Astra GTE with velour bucket seats and nice mirrors, and other nice touches, and the Golf just seemed so far behind. The Astra handled so well too.

    • @Matty12333
      @Matty12333 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Google_Does_Evil_NowThe golf is a decent car, but it's not class leading.

  • @stuarthall6631
    @stuarthall6631 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I love this kind of car! We have a 22-year-old Fiesta Mk IV which has gone round the clock nearly three times. It looks dreadful but it keeps going.... and going. No capital tied up; no depreciation; 3rd party insurance... and we don't have to worry about Sharon and Tracey in the supermarket car park!

    • @mudskipper0075
      @mudskipper0075 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Bangernomics rules ….👍cars seem to be old at 5 years now…😳

    • @MarthaMansbridge
      @MarthaMansbridge 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ‘Gone round the clock nearly three times’? So it’s done nearly 3 million miles?

    • @stuarthall6631
      @stuarthall6631 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@MarthaMansbridge Fair comment! I'm showing MY age as well as that of the car! I come from an age of six-digit milometers with physical wheels. I haven't quite landed in the digital age!

  • @dfbiker
    @dfbiker 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I had a MK1 focus and loved every min of driving it. It was amazing. Stuck with Ford focus ever since. Amazing cars 👍

  • @darrenwilson8042
    @darrenwilson8042 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Good on you Matt - hope your Ukrainian customer can use the Focus - I agree practical help is better than just cash

    • @sirrivet9557
      @sirrivet9557 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@toolbox5226 hey selling psychedelics is a perfectly legitimate business and I’m not joking

  • @ric_dk-9520
    @ric_dk-9520 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I drive a 99 Ford Focus... and I love it, and despite it looks like crap, I'm going to keep it as long as I can

  • @focusedford2302
    @focusedford2302 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    In my life, we've had 2 first gen focuses. A 2001 dark red Zetec 1.6 hatchback (pre facelift) and a 2002 black estate 1.8 Zetec (facelift) they were both reliable, the red one just died with age, and the only reason the estate got scrapped was because it was written off in a car park hit and run. Honestly, great cars even today

  • @WalkWithWallace
    @WalkWithWallace 2 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    More cheap runabouts like this please. Love this sort of stuff. 👍🏻

  • @williamegler8771
    @williamegler8771 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I had one of these in the United States.
    It was a wagon in ZTW spec.
    That was as the top of the line model and it had the 2.0L with 130hp.
    The backseat and cargo area was filled up with my two German Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dog.
    I drove to 180k miles until rust in the floor boards finally killed it.

  • @ericgeorge5483
    @ericgeorge5483 2 ปีที่แล้ว +80

    I'm pretty certain that the Mk 1 Focus will achieve classic status because it was such a ground breaking car. I love them. They still look fab and I do still see plenty of really nice examples on the road which is testament to what a really great car they were/are!

    • @mrc7478
      @mrc7478 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think they are pretty easy to maintain and repair as well. Look much better than Escorts too.

    • @ericgeorge5483
      @ericgeorge5483 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@mrc7478 The latere Escorts most definitely; they were awful.

    • @runepedersenDK
      @runepedersenDK 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It's one of the most reliable cars build (reliabilityindex). Quite good passive safety too (for its age). I bought a 14 year old one, and had it for 6 years, almost no trouble (two weelbearings, and an exaustmanifold). I also hope it will get classic status - it deserves it 😉

    • @SargeMimpson
      @SargeMimpson 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Doesn't deserve to be overpriced

    • @ericgeorge5483
      @ericgeorge5483 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@runepedersenDK It HAS TO achieve classic status, the Mk 1 was truly ground breaking and deserving of such status.

  • @CymInUA
    @CymInUA 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I bought a 2001 1.6 petrol Ghia with 140k on the clock for £350 with 10 months MOT about 5 years back, essentially to keep a parking space outside my house (long story). 3 years later I'd put another 40k on it and had to fork out for nothing other than tyres and brakes. When I no longer needed it I gave it away rather than bother trying to sell or scrap it and I hear it's still going strong. One of those cars I never had any doubt would start or stop - never a single issue ever encountered, and drove really well. I almost miss it!

  • @jeanr6948
    @jeanr6948 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love the idea of donating a useable car to a specific known person rather than selling/part exchanging - I have done it a few times - great that you might be able to spread the word/practice!

  • @Ivanho1981
    @Ivanho1981 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I had a 2002 St 170 - absolutely loved that thing, bought it in 2007 for £6k and sold it in 2014 for £600. Gave all £600 to the wife to part fund the purchase of a pram lol. In the end, the rust was starting to take it - back arches, around the boot above the number plate and the sills. It never missed a beat and it was well and truly thrashed. Some wagon.

  • @WyreForestBiker
    @WyreForestBiker 2 ปีที่แล้ว +60

    The Focus Mk2
    was a superb car to drive , handling was brilliant and the 1.8 turbo diesel 115 bhp was a genuinely
    quick A to B machine . It was very well built economical and reliable . Even Clarkson loved them .

    • @zeljkojozinovic3550
      @zeljkojozinovic3550 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Are you sure that it was a 2.0 diesel, i have a 1.8 tdci 115 and have never heard that a 2.0 was in mk1. Atlest not in Europe.

    • @plutonia00
      @plutonia00 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      There was no 2.0 TDCI available in the mk1 Focus, only the Endura-D 1.8 TD and eventually the 1.8 Duratorq TDCI in the facelift mk1. The 2.0 TDCI PSA unit was available in the mk2 Focus....

    • @daavneeq
      @daavneeq 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I currently have a mk2 facelift, 1.8 petrol, want something better, but for now, apart from some rattles from the trim/ dash, can’t fault it for work & back.

    • @WyreForestBiker
      @WyreForestBiker 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@zeljkojozinovic3550 Your right .. it was 2 decades ago and my memory is not the best !

    • @TomFord17
      @TomFord17 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@daavneeq im tempted by a Mk2 Zetec S in a diesel. How bad is the rattling

  • @thatsjustme1990
    @thatsjustme1990 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    It’s crazy to look at that car now and remember when it first came out it was SO modern looking compared to 99% of what was on the road!

  • @TheCommentator353
    @TheCommentator353 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    one of these was my daily for 6 months. crashed it in a hedge after a ballsy corner, reached 100 mph and gapped audi TT's in it. Only young once :)

  • @randellster
    @randellster 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    My first car was a MK1 Focus as well. It was such a fantastic car. Reliable, versatile, fun to drive and rather economical.

  • @OmgItsLeaa
    @OmgItsLeaa 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I bought a volvo s70-2000 for £400 a few weeks ago.
    i can afford something thats at least 10x more expensive but I just love old volvos.
    so much soul and I love the look of them. I love that little car.

  • @leebrown6623
    @leebrown6623 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Absolutely brilliant taking a look at a car from yester year. Always wanted one of those as I thought at the time they were a top notch car 😎 well done to you Matt for your generosity helping the Ukrainian chap out 👏👏👏👏 keep the awesome videos coming

  • @waggledance91
    @waggledance91 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I recently bought a 2005 Vauxhall agila to get me to work and back instead of the 5 series because of the fuel and you know it’s bloody brilliant. Filled it up for 38 quid 4 weeks ago and still got a quarter of a tank of petrol left. I really do this these cheap old cars are the way forward.

  • @bikersparky
    @bikersparky 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Awesome mate, absolutely brilliant you’re giving this to a great cause. Totally agree about these over paid charity directors and not knowing where your donations end up. Drove one of these when they first came out and it felt so much more refined than the mk4 golf of that era and I’m a die hard VW fan.

  • @ewaf88
    @ewaf88 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    In 1999 my new girlfriend put me on her company car insurance. It was a 1.6 Ford Focus Ghia.
    After driving it for the first time I realised that buying a Citroen Xsara the year before was a terrible mistake.
    The Focus was a revelation and the best car I had ever driven - it probably still is.
    .

  • @chrisbarrett5132
    @chrisbarrett5132 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I used to drive one of these, on occasions,for my job. I drove from Manchester to Portsmouth, had an hour's meeting, then drove back, I was surprised to find how it wound up to about 80 , and held that through bends on clear A roads. As I remember it had no ABS, and caught me out on a couple of occcasions with surprise braking slides. Beautiful light steering and great handling for the time though.

  • @rjm64r
    @rjm64r 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Brings back happy memories of my Mk1 1.8 LX..Y827 MBL...I know all my old car reg's...very sad..nice gesture re helping the folk of Ukraine Matt.

  • @martinross5634
    @martinross5634 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Bangers are best in my book. I recently got a 55 zafira for Free with M.O.T it's been trouble free for over a year!

  • @ravss4594
    @ravss4594 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’ve been driving my trustworthy 1997 BMW 328is Manual since new.
    The only thing I’ve had to do besides routine maintenance was a new clutch and a new coolant tank. The car has been extremely reliable as well as being comfortable and quite quick.
    These old cars are golden

  • @matthewlewis143
    @matthewlewis143 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I had a focus as my first car, 8 years ago. Very similar to this one, was half hoping this would be my old one as it ended up Manchester way 😂 literally nothing went wrong with it, was faster than everyone’s Corsa’s and Polo’s at college too. Brilliant cars 👍🏼

    • @Cayres9
      @Cayres9 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I had a 2 litre Focus ghia years back reliable cars but not very fast for a 2 litre engine my little 1.1 Colt goes as quick for a lot less running costs lol

  • @Vegardye
    @Vegardye 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Have owned a 1999 1.6 for 4 years with 60000 km since then with no major trouble, last year I took it for a week long 4300 km long trip from Voss (small norwegian town 100 km from Bergen) to Lofoten and back, not a single problem whatsoever, bulletproof car😊

  • @joegough2207
    @joegough2207 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I had one of these for a year it had done 123k miles no issues at all but then on The MOT was loads of rust..

  • @McElhinney65
    @McElhinney65 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I bought a 2001 VW Golf 1.9SDi on ebay 3 years ago for £265 with a knackered clutch. It was in Devon at the vendor's local garage. Rang the garage, £350 for a new clutch and oil and filter change. Went down on the train, drove it back to Birmingham - 55mpg ! All it has needed since then is regular servicing. I love it. I've got a Legend on the driveway and a Silver Shadow but I spend all my time knocking about in the Golf.

  • @nigewood4945
    @nigewood4945 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My God, my old car Fred! Bought it in Wigan back in 2007 and kept it a couple of years. Did replace the fuel pump which definitely hurt me but I remember it's mid-range acceleration being phenomenal (for a bog standard car) and I always bottled out before it did. The earlier TDDI engines out performed the re-tweaked version TDDI I replaced it with (not TDCI). Loved that car not just my first with aircon but also Ford's brilliantly practical Quick Clear windscreen. That OSF wing was a bit battered even then but even as an older car it felt stylish and the grandad style velour seats very comfortable and practical whether the weather was icy or like an oven. Live long and prosper Fred!

    • @lulzyboy
      @lulzyboy 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Just found this, I too had a 2000 1.8 TDDI in silver that I named Fred! Sadly, I came off the road in a severe ice storm and wrote him off but he served me well. Would happily buy British Fred (aka the one featured in this video) if nobody else will.

  • @KA6ED
    @KA6ED 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My first car was a Focus. Absolutely loved it, my only gripe was the cup holders. The amount of drinks spilled over when turning a tight corner

  • @barrycrump6189
    @barrycrump6189 2 ปีที่แล้ว +68

    This video put a huge smile on my face. I would like to see more banger economics videos sprinkled among the high-end fantasy car porn.

    • @davidlovatt2335
      @davidlovatt2335 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      Me too Barry. I much prefer the banger stories than the high end stuff. Far more interesting in my view.

    • @WalkWithWallace
      @WalkWithWallace 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I totally concur, I'm not that interested in the high end stuff either unless it's from the 80s/90s or early 00s.

  • @anthonywalker7240
    @anthonywalker7240 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It is a matter of being in the right place at the right time to pick up a bargain car sometimes. I like to see what i can get for the cheapest of money, got to be legal ect. And get it home for a good clean. Looks good that focus does.

  • @paulbentley9527
    @paulbentley9527 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great video as always. I’ve had loads of these throw away motors and had a Focus Ghia Diesel similar to this which needed a new wing. Managed to get one on eBay in the right colour, black, for £18 - got him down from £20 😉 The beauty of these cars is the parts are dirt cheap and there are plenty available at scrapyards across the country and they are relatively easy to work on.

  • @jasonborn1978-h1i
    @jasonborn1978-h1i 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Takes me back. Had a 1.6 zetec on a Y plate, 3 door in ink blue. Great car. Swapped it for a 56 plate 1.8 zetec. Wasn't as good as my Y plate. Great video Matt.

  • @davidmarshall5596
    @davidmarshall5596 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    These & the astra around the same era are 2 of the best value for money you can buy ..they will last a lifetime driven only small mileage a year but kept mechanically well..great review I love these old cars 🚗. Keep em coming 👍

    • @michael5089
      @michael5089 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Great comment David👍

  • @stanelder9995
    @stanelder9995 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The MK1 Focus certainly was a sharp car to drive - I remember having one of the first examples when I lived in Germany at the time - excellent handling and driving car by the standards of the day. FWIW I can't get the Raffleshack site to load here in Florida..................?

  • @MrJAGODIC
    @MrJAGODIC 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The reason why old cars are cheap in the UK is because there is no market for such cars to be exported. All because the steering wheel is on the wrong side.

  • @susantonkin287
    @susantonkin287 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a Ford Fiesta it is twenty six years old...Bought it twenty five years ago and still going strong...Family and friends always say when are you going to replace...

    • @shanepatrick641
      @shanepatrick641 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Don’t replace it, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it I say.
      Trouble is with people nowadays is they want to throw everything away. There’s many instances where people have said I should get rid of my 04 fiesta ghia 1.4tdci but I’ve fixing all bits needing replacing and it runs well, fixing it was far cheaper than getting a car on finance. I like to own my cars as well, most people don’t own their cars nowadays.

  • @debbierussell1495
    @debbierussell1495 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Loved my 2000 1.8 Zetec. It was such a leap forward, compared to what I had drove previously.

  • @namesbinge3073
    @namesbinge3073 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My dad has a bad history with smaller car dealers and privates, and he always tells us to just go to the big dealers instead and get a proper looked after cars. And throughout online Autotrader as such has a lot of small dealers spread through across the UK. And I always wish the bargain was bought by me. "It's better to be secured than not secured by big dealers." or "I rather feed the salesman than technicians." he says. Always gets on my nerves.

  • @RussellSmithOmegaW
    @RussellSmithOmegaW 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Used to have these on rental car fleets so I drove a lot of them. Had a 2.0 myself of the pre-facelift and I was amused in the vid as you were giving us all the post-facelift differences because I'd learned to spot them all those years back too! Now one thing I did notice was that the facelift handled even better, just lighter steering, though it could also be that the majority of those I drove were the 1.6 and so wondering if differently configured there too. Very rarely we got in one of the diesels, but even despite my ownership of another, the 1.6 was probably my favourite all-rounder. A nice trip down memory lane for me too!

    • @jamesworsfold5553
      @jamesworsfold5553 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I actually agree the facelift models do handle much better with the steering, I owned a 2000 2.0L estate which I loved dearly until the head gasket went, some 7 years ago and have just sent my 2004 diesel hatchback to the breakers after a blown turbo. The 2004 face did handle better and ride and accelerate much smoother. I will miss my 2004 diesel forever a long time as now I have a MK2 😒

    • @soundseeker63
      @soundseeker63 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      The 1.6 had an all-aluminium Zetec-SE engine, while the 1.8 and 2.0 had the older cast iron block Zetec-E from the mondeo, so the 1.6 was a bit lighter in the nose which is probably why it appeared to steer/turn in a bit sharper.

  • @patrick.771
    @patrick.771 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Back then when I had a Focus I, a friend of mine was driving a Peugeot 206 (same age) and couldn’t believe how good my Focus was to drive compared to her 206.

  • @adamclark6756
    @adamclark6756 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I had a 2004 focus and i loved it. 1.8 TDCI, it never let me down and was really nice to drive too. I bet that Ukrainian would be over the moon to be given that car, i hope it happens.

  • @greigmackay8465
    @greigmackay8465 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Back in 2005 I rented a mk1 focus 2.0 petrol 4 door saloon from avis car rental and picked it up in Washington DC with just 74 miles on the clock from new. Then drove it all across the States and up to Alaska and back down to southern california. 9500 miles in 7 weeks and it was Feb and March so still in the winter months further north and it never missed a beat!! Started first time in - 18 degrees on the Great Alaskan Highway. Heated windscreen came into its own then too. Such a good rental car and it was driven in the way that all good rental cars should be too 😉😂 always had soft spot for the Ford Focus since then 😁

  • @wesleyselkridge2197
    @wesleyselkridge2197 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    You looked happier in that than I've seen you in any other car Matt! Love a dirt cheap runaround.

  • @stuartday1876
    @stuartday1876 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I bought an X plate 1.8 Zetec in Silver when it was 9 months old, absolutely amazing car, it handled so well. At £150 that is cheaper than train tickets when we visit friends up north!

  • @pdtech4524
    @pdtech4524 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    They're good cars the mk1 Focus almost a future classic especially the ST models which you can pick up for next to nothing!
    A good tidy up and you'd make an easy £500 on top of what you paid for that.
    I have a 56 plate mk2 Focus 2.0 estate ghia, paid £550 for it about 5 years ago, never had an issues at all, passed every MOT.
    Looking at current autotrader prices I could easily double my money, I've even seen them for £1500 with more miles than mine!
    The 2.0 duratec is quite rare and sort after, most are 1.8 also being an estate makes it quite a useful work horse and being a ghia model it has all the goodies such as cruise control, auto head lights, auto wipers, reverse sensors and better Sony sound system etc

  • @lvgio
    @lvgio 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    same car my dad has & the one i’m learning in, good little car, easy to park

  • @hbeebe
    @hbeebe 2 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Doesn’t matter what car you have, Range Rover, S Class and all, there’s no better feeling than jumping in a cheap runaround and you can’t go wrong with a Focus, great cars! Perfect solution to the dilemma btw 🇺🇦👍

  • @gizmo6164
    @gizmo6164 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Sitting in my 1999 Vauxhall Corsa called 'Ted' whilst watching your video. I actually do own a pretty new, top of the range sporty model with 16k miles. My daily go to is Ted. Not bothered if I'm judged, not bothered who/what parks next to me at the supermarket, not bothered when my son piles in covered in mud after football. Ted's brilliant! 😊

  • @chrisbarry7836
    @chrisbarry7836 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I had my fiesta since 2005,why change it ? everything still works

    • @shanepatrick641
      @shanepatrick641 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hats off to you sir! I totally agree, If ain’t broke don’t fix it. Sadly many people prefer to throw things away. I don’t get these people that think financing new cars will save them money, they are bonkers 😂

  • @WesD85
    @WesD85 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    My elderly next-door neighbour just gave me her 2003 1.6 auto LX, she owned it from new and only done 50k. I like the simplicity of it, don't get lost in a sea of buttons to press, and there's something enjoyable about driving around in an old car. I've also got the current focus so best of both worlds.

  • @jonmayhew4468
    @jonmayhew4468 2 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    Surely I can't be the only one who thinks this shape of Focus still looks great, even in 2022? I'd take one of these over the new models any day

    • @ashleyclough5917
      @ashleyclough5917 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      We've had a mk1 and currently on a mk2.5, them 1.8 endura diesels are grand

    • @Ali-fl5mb
      @Ali-fl5mb 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I agree, though I do really like the looks of the new Mk4 Focus as well. The mk2 and 3 are a little bit ugly in comparison, but still perfectly viable cars. The Mk1 is absolutely a future classic imo.

    • @paultasker7788
      @paultasker7788 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Definitely. It looked bit weird when new but fresh, bit dated in the 2010s but now looks quite modern again now.

    • @BigGent22
      @BigGent22 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Has aged incredibly well! Looks better than the mk2

  • @gwengo4167
    @gwengo4167 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I had a 2002 1.8TDCi LX and I loved it. They handle really well. One thing you will need to check at that age is for rust around the lower sill where the corner of the rear wheel arch is (remove the side skirts). That’s where mine needed welding. Also check the injectors are ok if it’s a diesel. I think they’re great cars 👍🏻

    • @stuartainsworth3461
      @stuartainsworth3461 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Also rear suspension mounts, rear seat belt mounts.

  • @saddoncarrs6963
    @saddoncarrs6963 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Excellent review, Matt, if a little short. Nice when you do cars within the price range of real people.

  • @richardmclaughlin5298
    @richardmclaughlin5298 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That's why I love your logical thinking you tube chanel. It's the way of the world. Keep up the great work bud

  • @smiff198907
    @smiff198907 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Difference with the UK is the MOT regulations are too strict, when an older car like this starts developing issues it’s easier to scrap than pay to have any issues resolved. Other European countries don’t have this issue hence why you’d find much older cars in the places you mentioned

    • @routmaster38
      @routmaster38 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I started motor trading around 1970 when most cars were rust buckets including RR,audi,merc etc but now I see lovely immaculate cars scrapped because items like fuel injectors cost more that the car is worth.

    • @koolguy9531
      @koolguy9531 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      also with pre 2001 cars you have to either pay £180 or £295( if the engine size is above 1.6l )in road tax depending on engine size, there's no cheaper tax band for old cars with smaller engines so if the tax is more than the car is worth its not really worth keeping.

  • @christhepharmacist
    @christhepharmacist 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I really thought a lot about this video - it’s a fantastic thing you did for Ukraine. I think all of us have been affected by the news of the war. If you friend takes donations or needs a volunteer driver - I’m happy to help. Thanks, chris

  • @jovialgent9963
    @jovialgent9963 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The RS was an absolute beauty back in the day!!

  • @steveberridge4648
    @steveberridge4648 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Bought a mk1 focus in 2019 as a stop gap. My daughter now owns it and loves it. They still drive so well and were from peak era reliable Fords. Far less likely to go wrong than a modern ecoboost Focus.

  • @061music
    @061music 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video Matt, as always. I cannot remember a single video of yours ever getting a thumbs down. It's a testament to the honest nature of your reviews and the humour you add

  • @99ron30
    @99ron30 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Two and a half years ago I sold my mother in laws 3 door 2002 focus Zetec 1.6 Automatic for £115 on ebay. All it really needed was the solenoids in the gearbox sorting as it was staying in the low gears far too long (£80 parts, probably £150-£200 labour). I didn't expect the new owners to use it for any length of time, but it's since had two clean MOTs. I'm so glad it didn't end up getting scrapped, I hate waste of repairable objects.

  • @NilsHedstrom
    @NilsHedstrom 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It's funny how this generation of focus still looks better than the later ones(from like 2008-12). My mum still drives around in a 2004 focus flexi fuel which still runs surprisingly well eventhough she didn't do an oil change for over 3 years or 3000kms on it. Will always be special to me since that was the car I mainly learnt to drive in. Feels much better to drive than many other old "shit" cars. Also got a ford motor under my hood now on my Volvo v60 2014 T4F.

  • @RichieRouge206
    @RichieRouge206 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I had a 99 Focus 1.8 Zetec Climate and it was absolutely brilliant, zingy, quick, very reliable and one of the most engaging driving cars I’ve ever driven. The early/pre facelift models were built in Germany so the steel was better. Really great thing donating it to the Ukraine dude!

  • @tramlad2
    @tramlad2 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Nice thing to do Matt i am sure it will do someone a turn during this terrible war, respect mate

  • @coombsfh
    @coombsfh 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    For a short time, I had a 1.8 zetec. I absolutely drove the wheels off of it and loved every minute.

  • @snbala
    @snbala 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    A big fan of the Mk1 Focus, I am on my third one now and I can’t seem to get away from them. I learnt to drive in one and probably why I have fond memories of it. They are superb to drive and they look great even today, in turn cheap to run and handling to rival more expensive vehicles. It was voted best car of the last 25 years beating Bugatti veyron and mclaren F1, says it all.

  • @theonlywoody2shoes
    @theonlywoody2shoes 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Fully agree with your approach to “charity donations”. There is almost always a small local charity that does great work, in the community where it’s based or half way around the world. People give their time and just need simple donations to make a real difference - and that difference is saving someone’s life, and not an upgrade from a 5 series to 7 on the CEOs drive

  • @amagdenovski
    @amagdenovski 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Appreciate the video, Matt. Keep on producing this type of great content. 🤘

  • @mccarly3258
    @mccarly3258 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I had a 1.6 Zetec in poverty spec but the one thing I remember was the lift off oversteer. The car was great fun as a 18 year old.

  • @nekite1
    @nekite1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The Focus was always a decent car. Good to drive and dependable - what more do you need?

  • @jamieogorman9461
    @jamieogorman9461 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Mine eat wheel bearings, strange.
    I was a ford escort owner but as you said the focus was a vast improvement. I loved mine and when it died it only had 37k on the clock.

  • @athollmcnicoll1028
    @athollmcnicoll1028 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    2 years off being a classic car and still a runner - good old Ford they knew this type was a winner. Good idea Matt , donating cars that can carry supplies to Ukraine and neighbouring countries where vast numbers of fleeing folk are holed up. Bet you could empty half your stock cars if you were that way inclinedf?

  • @MrDziuka
    @MrDziuka ปีที่แล้ว

    You are good man Matt. I am from Poland and I must say that your will to help Ukrainian people brought tears to my eyes. Thank you and all the best.

  • @shaniapearcey
    @shaniapearcey 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Would like to see more of this sort of content 👌

  • @MidLoafCrisis
    @MidLoafCrisis 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    We had to sell our fairly decent cars 8 years ago to help fund our first house.
    I picked up a Ford Focus Mk1 as a budget option to tide us over.
    It's one of the best cars I've ever owned, we kept for years, was sad to see it go.
    Edit: It was James Milner's first car

  • @davidhay9699
    @davidhay9699 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I’m loving the jumper mate…cracking colour…U always look impressively immaculate…I like the cut of your JIB…🤣🤣😂😜

  • @simonpeat2937
    @simonpeat2937 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Takes me back to August 2000, I was 18 and lucky enough to have a brand new 2.0 Zetec 3 door in the same panther black. It had ESP(a crude version of traction control) . The handbrake turn thing was way too easy for my teenage self not to do. It was brilliant and this video reminds me of my youth again.

  • @gordonbarnes8229
    @gordonbarnes8229 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Matt, Another great Video!
    Returned to UK in 2020 after 16 years living and working in France. I lived in a rural area and everyone was driving around in old cars kept on the roads due to a good MOT type system which is thorough run by independent stations who do not do repairs etc so not looking for work, and good local mechanics who have served a full apprenticeship. In large cities you see BMW, Merc, Audi etc but in the countryside it`s mostly old Citroen, Peugeot, & Renault still going strong.

  • @diverbob471
    @diverbob471 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Nice video Matt, my son runs a mk2 focus estate 2002 here in Menorca we have has it in the family for 10 years 240k kilometres passes ITV every year with little or no avisos loves it.

  • @giovanni233
    @giovanni233 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    As someone who owns one of these Mk1 Focus' they are honestly great cars, mine is a 2.0L Zetec model with the automatic its a very well handling car in comparison to its rivals such as the Lancer, Cobalt, Corolla was more plush riding but was not point and shoot in the slightest, the mk1's are for sure the most well rounded cars out there.

  • @Alexander_l322
    @Alexander_l322 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good on you for helping that man help Ukraine in their time of need. Hopefully this little focus can help them too.