Hi, Im thinking about a 1.4 classic as my first car.

Budget of around 3K (new job pays pretty decent )

Anything i really need to watch out for? I know about the door seals being crap.

thnx for any help

I guess it's the 1.4 MPI 8 valve in the classic? if so the engines OK, but not that quick. coolant leaks, usually the seal around the temp sender is common, if elec front windows, both the regulators have gone on the Wife's. rear wash wipe tube comes off inside the tailgate. Other than the leaky rear doors that you mentioned we've not had any other issues in 2 1/2 years. MPI engine has a chain drive for the cam & not a belt. Tick over (idle) can be 'lumpy' but that is normal. MPG is about 39 if driven normally, some people report a poor MPG for this engine.

1.4 classic TDi -not a bad little motor -pretty decent economy( without worrying about MPG -conputer tells me its 50 ish ) ,could be a lot better but I'm the origonal aged boy racer .Only complaint I 'VE HAD ON ORIGONAL (04) equipment was rear hatch opening , and I ve solved that for about £50 ,with provision for remote central locking when I decide to try taking off door panels .

BTW- rear hatch remote control - anyone interested give me a PM.Involves bike cables, plastic trunking and a few odds and sods .

MY 1st Skoda was a 1.4 petrol classic. Thoroughly enjoyed it. A very functional car. Not the fastest, and wont be the most economical. However, they are steady as a rock.

I can vouch for the lumpy idling, very odd at first. But had very few problems. Keep up with the services! Also seems that the air con packing in is a common problem. Mine went a microswitch was needed at about 120 sniffs.

http://briskoda.net/skodas-sale/skoda-fabia-sdi-2001-1700-a/124824/ check this one:

thanks for the help

not really looking for a fast car atm so thats why I'm looking at the Fabia, cheap to buy, run and insure as far as I know