Bit of advice needed, budget is a major issue unfortunately, that will govern my decision. I am weighing up the pros and cons between either a MK1 or MK2 Ford Focus, it would most likey be the Zetec as this seems to have plenty of spec for the year, and from what I have read I would probably opt for the 1.6..But should I be considering buying a car this age? Is it false economy if it needs constant repairs etc.,

I see no end of Mk1's on the road which is a good advert to the quality, but my gut feeling is to hold on until I might be able to afford a Mk2, that said they still seem out of my budget. If a car this old is really not an issue and I check F/S/H service stamps etc, then would the ST170 be worth looking at as it seems to have everything- only thing that concerns me is the mpg which if I am on a tight budget it seems daft to buy something that is going to consume fuel like there's no tomorrow!

Cheers.