Missus just had her 03 1.8 tdci written off. Brilliant car really. Had it 9 years from 6 months old. Brilliant engine and would buy another without hesitation but this time I would buy the sport trim to stiffen up the suspension which is the only thing I didn't like about it.
The only time it cost me big bucks was when the dual mass flywheel went. Same for most or all diesels though. £800 because you might as well have the clutch done while you're in there. Still even that is cheap if you compare to a German motor.
The engine was a 115 Bhp btw. Fast as fook. Used to **** my mate off burning him up in his sporty z rover thingy,
You wouldn't think I was 42!!
So to summarise, you can be a bit sensible, pay cheap tax and insurance and still burn up the little chavs when you want by buying a 115 diesel focus, you won't regret it.
Forgot about the heated front screen as well!!