I've now driven two pretty much identical Fabia 1.9TDis each on an 02 plate. Both vibrated along to the engine rpm through the clutch and gearstick when pressure is applied.

Is this normal? I did query my regular mechanic who was initially concerned until I found the same thing on this second (now mine) car; he said it has to be a Skoda thing given the mileage of 40k. My Pug had no such vibration.

The vibration can only be felt with pressure applied to the clutch or gearstick and only through them (not the bodywork) nor can you exactly hear it. It can be felt stationary and moving, although simply rest your foot on the clutch and it cannot be felt (you have to apply enough pressure to feel resistance).

Hoping my new purchase doesn't have a repair bill looming already...

I've had it in the three fabias that I've owned also, so 5/5 isn't a bad score...

Every diesel I have ever driven has done this to some extent. Some are worse than others. The PD isn't a very well refined engine either and suffers from this more than others, it's not the worst but it is a bit rough