400 sdi 2,0 5dr

Tough old ugly workhorse, economical and quick

Bought as a cheap old commuter to be driven on rough narrow country lanes, mileage was high, have now added 5000 more miles: diesel engine is a gem, quick responsive and economical, steering exceedingly vague coupled with the worse steering-lock of any car I've ever driven, road holding mediocre with excessive body roll; body has corrosion around windscreen and around hatchback door hinges but is solid otherwise; well appointed inside with useful all electric windows and mirrors, driver's seat adjustable 4 ways but is still unconfortable for me, annoying lights and wipers switches have twisting action, roof and door linings now have aging fabric peeling off; overall the car feels very solid and quite well built, better than the rather flimsy Rover 200 of the same age, probably due to the 400 being based on a Honda model, unfortunately its design is quite ugly, it looks just like a blob really. Ideal car for what I need though, I don't have to worry about potholes, mud and scratching it against hedges and I get 50 miles to the gallon with careful driving, it's spacious enough to carry 4 people and has a big enough boot for large items. When it comes to replacing it, I will consider the newer 45 as it has improved steering, cheaper roadtax, etc, but for me only the diesel engined model is worth considering.

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