Avoid the 1.4, it's underpowered.

1600 Petrol is the best for a performance/econony compromise.

It's a DIY friendly car, so there isn't nothing you can't do yourself, you do want one thats had a cambelt change though.

Diesel is ok, but your only going to see savings if you do big miles, otherwise no, they have longer service intervals than petrols.

LX like all other models is fairly basic, although it's still not bad, decent CD player, most have heated screen and decent alloy wheels, they are actually the same extra cost option on the range topping model!

Ford confused things with the Zetec trim level, let it be clear ALL trim levels have the same Zetec engine, the 'Zetec model' is a 'sporty' trim level and has sports suspension, different wheels and front fog lights and seats.

Ghia is top of the range and has full electric windows etc.

I woulden't really be to worried about 50k millage threshold, so long as I say the cambelt has been changed and it's been looked after you will have no problems!

Being they are so popular you should be spoilt for choice really with Ebay, forecourts etc.

Martin