USED Skoda Octavia Estate (98 - 04)

My car

This car has had so many things go wrong with it. The suspension is appauling and you will be faced with regular bills for replacement of shock absorbers. In addition the engine management system has failed twice, the car has been plagued with water leaks,the paint came of the hatch, one suspension spring cracked under normal useage, the internal body fittings don't join correctly, the anti roll bar failed, it had all four wheel bearings replaced, the spark plug coils failed about six months after I bought it. Need I go on? An old joke asked 'what's the difference between a skoda and a skip?' - a skip doesn't cost £2000+ a year in replacement parts and servicing!

My car

I had to be persuaded to test drive a Skoda by an insistant friend and am I glad he kept on at me! I couldn't believe how well this car drove. And now I've lived with it for three months, it is definately the best value for money car I've ever had. OK, so it's a bit cramped in the back(which has been sorted on the new model)but the ride and refinement are up there with the so called best. Just about to but the wife a Fabia as well!

My car

I have owned one for a couple of years now. It's great if you do not need to put anyone large in the back. Kids are fine and the boot comes in handy for their luggage.

The car goes well even when towing and is comfortable even on a long journey. A no-nonsense private garage does all the servicing. The most expensive service cost £220 for a full service and four brake discs and pads.

It's very cheap and practical, and I would get another Mk1 Octavia.

My car

This car is a joy. It looks good in metallic paint and with alloy wheels but lacks the roof rails which I will be adding.

Inside it is plain but functional with air-con, but few other gadgets. The trip computer is interesting and easy to use, on the stalk. It has the boot-compartment six-disc CD player and the sound system is OK but could be better. The rear speakers are hidden in the boot wall and sound strained.

The drive is good, with quite accurate handling, little body roll and surprisingly decent acceleration even for a 90bhp model. I have driven the 110 which is better, but if you haven't, you won't be disappointed.

The big feature is the economy - unbelievable! It's hard to get less than 50mpg around town, and on motorway/long trips I get around 65mpg. I even managed over 70mpg on one run of about 80 miles. I reckon that the trip computer on mine is about 5% out.

When driven really hard, the vRS throws up engine problems and it's lowered suspension invites body damage. However, every diesel Octavia owner will spout forth about unquestionable reliability and so will I.

It isn't the biggest estate, and rear legroom is smaller than rivals but fine for short journeys and no probs for the kids. I'm looking forward to years of trouble-free motoring from it, but might have to add cruise control and maybe take it up to 115bhp, just to keep my interest.

Avoid this by going for the Elegance, which also has better seats.