Ford Ka Mk1 (PR)

When the Mk1 Ford Ka launched in 1996, it was a revelation for the UK city car market. Based on the Mk3 Fiesta platform, its distinctive "New Edge" styling combined with wheels pushed to the absolute corners gave it go-kart-like handling that rivalled the classic Mini. Today, it is rapidly transitioning from a cheap runabout into a modern classic, sought after for its communicative steering and characterful, albeit basic, driving experience. Mechanically, the Mk1 Ka is generally incredibly robust, particularly the later (post-2002) 1.3-litre Duratec (RoCam) engines, which are chain-driven and far more refined than the ancient Endura-E units found in early models. The gearboxes are similarly tough, though they can develop a whine if fluid changes have been neglected. Parts are astonishingly cheap, making it a favorite for DIY mechanics and an ideal, low-cost first car. However, the ultimate killer for the Mk1 Ka is rust. Ford's rust-proofing during this era was notoriously poor, and the Ka suffered terribly. Corrosion typically ravages the fuel filler cap area, sills, floorpan, and rear subframe mounts. Buying one today requires extreme caution and a rigorous inspection of its MOT history; a clean, rust-free example is increasingly rare and worth preserving, but a rotten one can quickly become an uneconomical repair project.