USED Daihatsu Sirion Hatchback (98 - 05)

My car

I'm learning to drive in this car and I really like it. Previously I was learning in a new Astra which I didn't like. Compared to that, the Sirion is great. It's really comfy, has loads of room and looks smart too. It's a bit noisy when you go fast but aside from that it's a really nice, sensible car. But apparently if it breaks, it's quite expensive to fix because the parts are from Japan (I think).

My car

I had a Rally 2 version for 2 years,the 1.3 twin cam variable valve engine was superb,it gave 108bhp (130bhp power to weight)reved to 7500,put it in 3rd at 50mph for safe overtaking and it gave 45mpg week in week out.I had to let it go in the end because the ride was a bit too hard (but I am Knocking on a bit now)due to upgraded suspesion.If you want some fun try and find one, I never saw another Rally 2 when I had mine.

My car

I bought the car about two weeks ago, the version I have is 1.3 AT 5dr 102hp. This is one of the best superminis on the market.

The feel behind the wheel is incredible, you can't help but push the gas pedal down all the way just to hear the 102hp engine revving. The only time you will not enjoy riding this car is if you are making a sharp turn, which will tighten the already tight suspension and go over an obstacle like a little bump on the road which causes the rear suspension to make a disturbing noise.

I can't believe how this mag gave the performance 3/5, I think this is the strongest of the superminis. From the outside, this is a very pretty-looking car, I'm thinking of purchasing the alloy wheels soon. Inside, the car is very simple and practical.

There are four gloveboxes, two in front of the passenger seat as usual, one is in the middle(above where you have radio and AC), the other one is right under the wheel which I use all the time. It took me 1 week to recognize the last one ;)

Overall I give it 4/5 I was even surprised when I found out the sony CD player was able to play MP3s. This is a must-have supermini.

My car

Driving the car is a real hoot. Sideways at 60mph and the car's four wheel drive ensures you slide sideways with no over or understeer.

It's very sure footed even on motorways, braking is firm and progressive.

The seats are very comfy and firm, and are very sporty in nature.

It seems to return about 45mpg on a motorway.

Twim-cam makes it behave like a turbo, with all the fun higher up the revs (all the way to 7,500+), but happy to pootle if you are feeling that way.

Air-con and folding electric mirros a definite plus in town.

Alloys look smart.

The car is noisy going past 70mph, but does not lose oomph, (but then you shouldn' be going past 70mph).

Interior kit is standard Daihatsu stuff, black (but I like it black).

Like other reviews I have read, the stereo is a real pain to learn what it all does, but it down sound nice.

Servicing is cheap and nothing goes wrong, but have been warned if something does go wrong it is likely to cost a packet

I'm not sure that it is worth almost £12,000 new, but depreciation can bring prices right down after two years, and then it is exceptionally good value for money.

Pleasure points per penny is very high compared with a similar car with a much larger engine. If someone stole it or smashed it, I would buy another one.