Focus ST170

[Scott Clissold]

Hi guys, thinking of getting the Mrs a 5 door ST170 and was wondering if anyone had any experience in owning one? Has to be a 5 door unfortunately, due to a 13 month old baby and another one on the way next May. The wife just can't manage with the Mini anymore. I've not had any experience with the focus before. Are they practical enough in 5 door guise with 2 kids? Also how much crap will we be able to get in the boot? Thanks in advance

[Ben Purnell]

I think they're great cars, plenty of leg room in the back for adults so the kids will be more than fine, at the time I had one my kids were 12 and 9. Its got a decent size boot as well, although depending on the pram/pushchair you have it might take up a lot of the room.

I couldn't tell you anything about common problems on them as mine had only done 23k from new before an old lady decided to veer across her side of the road into me and writing the car off. I'd certainly have one again, but just can't find one as good as the one I had

[Cochyn]

Good cars all round, cheap enough to buy and insure, none are 170 bhp really but have enough poke to keep you entertained (but I doubt that's what's really needed). Plenty of creature comforts, rust wise isn't really a problem as such. But with a Focus that hasn't really been looked after, you should expect a bit of rust on the arch lips, under the wing mirrors and suspension components that normally wear and cause knocks only are the usual drop links and bushes. But once renewed, shouldn't have any problems. Here's some random links for you that should help get an idea of what to expect...

http://www.fastfordmag.co.uk/2007/12...y_focus_st170/

http://www.fordst170.co.uk/

[Simon T]

you do have to rev them hard to get any performance, and they are thirsty (although as an owner Ben can comment more on that).

Any misfire or issues reving over 4k will be coils, crack sensor/cam sensor and adjustable timing problems.

[Ben Purnell]

you're right Simon, they are a little thirsty if you're heavy with the right foot, but can return fairly good economy if gentle. The wife used ours and never really noticed the added expense in fuel as she doesn't do many miles

[AJC]

I'd go for a Mondeo ST instead myself

[Simon T]

I'll probably get slated here with this being a ford forum, but we had a vectra SRi when our kids were young. Main thing was that the boot was fookin' massive, and the inside was indestructible. parts are mucho cheap, it did low 30's mpg - and it was cheap to buy. I only sold it as an A4 came up for sale at the right price.

We now have an 02 BMW 235 tourer, that is proving to be a great all rounder too, probably the best car I've owned.

[Scott Clissold]

Thanks for the advice guys. I'll post up some pics if/when we get one