Simple philosophy with the RS turbo mate, you've got to spend a few quid (especially these days) to get a good one.

As with all CVH cars, check the oil's been changed regularly.

Rust is a big problem around the fuel filler cap, stick your hand under the rear arches to check for rust, under the boot carpet and in the sunroof well (many go here and no many people check!)

Run your hands under the bodykit on the rear arches to check for rot on the sills. Check the gearchange isn't sloppy and cruise at 35 in 5th and put your foot down to check for turbo wear.

The car is easy enough mechanically to sort out, it's just a CVH, but the check the radiator they're getting difficult to source.

The trim in nearly impossible to get a hold of good seats, so check for the normal wear on the bolsters etc.

Rust is the main thing with the Mk3 Fiesta to check, been utterly thorough when checking. Apart from that they're great little cars.