The Mondeo was everywhere during the Nineties - it was a massive seller for Ford in the UK and worldwide. The mid-sized family car segment saw battles for fleet sales between the Ford, Vauxhall's Vectra and the Peugeot 405.
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Ford tended to win, laying the foundations for the 'Mondeo-man' stereotype. An update in 1996 shot it back to the top of the sales charts, sporting more efficient, refined engines and a much sleeker look. A season in the hands of ex-Formula 1 champion Nigel Mansell on the British touring car circuit helped its image, too.
Mondeos always represented good value (Ford threw in plenty of standard equipment) and they're very easy to drive and live with. They aren't that roomy, and the pre-2000 diesel engines are a little uncouth but these are the only drawbacks. Of course the dull image endures, but the Mondeo was always at or near the top of its class not only in sales terms but as a best-buy, combining rewarding driving characteristics, practicality and economy.
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After another overhaul in 2000 the Mondeo became MORE aesthetically pleasing and even better to drive with a massive range of engines, from an underpowered 1.6i to a 2.5-litre V6. Today the Mondeo remains a decent used buy. There are no less than 21 models to choose from (16 petrols and 5 diesels), parts are cheap and prices are low. Recent Zetec versions are the best and, whilst you'll still get what you pay for, there are plenty on the market so be picky with service history and hunt for low-mileage examples.
Tiscali verdict: 8/10: Spacious, comfortable, well-equipped and good to drive
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