I'd definately consider one. I have on a few occassions to be honest, but I'm not sure if you'd get much of one for £1000-1500.

I don't think the engine can take abuse like some Ford lumps, they seem to need good servicing, but they feel pretty willing considering the modest power output.

Handle very well from what I remember of driving one, and feel very solid compared to rivals (VTR etc), trim all feels better quality, as does gearshift and brakes.

Was a shame they didn't fit the 1.7 from the factory, that would have been a neat little VTS rival, but I think they're good little cars.