June 2003

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How time flies. It's nearly three years since Ford's second-generation Mondeo arrived to an overwhelmingly enthusiastic reception from both press and public. The car was based on a brand new platform and quickly established class-leading standards for driving dynamics, while offering excellent levels of standard equipment. All models were fitted with ABS, six airbags, air-conditioning and a CD player.
Thanks to taut handling and accurate, well weighted controls, the Mondeo is great to drive, although some people find the ride slightly too firm on cars wearing the optional 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels. The entry-level 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines are the most popular, both having decent performance and good economy. A 2.5 V6 was also available from launch, but it is thirsty and not much faster than the 2.0-litre version. The early 2.0 Di diesel model - which was later rebadged TDDi - is unrefined by class standards, although Ford moved things on later with the excellent TDCi.
With tens of thousands of early examples being taken out of the fleet market, the Mondeo is becoming a serious presence in second-hand circles - and prices have already fallen well below ΂£10,000 for early versions. The car's reputation for durability and sparkling on-road behaviour should help to make it a used favourite.
Checklist
* All 2.0 Di diesels should have had an ECU calibration update during routine servicing to improve running and tractability. Make sure this has been done.
* Early TDCi models can suffer from poor starting and some owners report their vehicles cutting out unexpectedly. However, the problem seems to have been cured in later cars.
* On some hatchbacks, washer fluid can leak from the rear wiper mechanism, soaking the boot carpets.
* The larger 18-inch alloys are susceptible to kerb damage or 'flat spots', caused by driving too fast over speedhumps or through potholes.
* Early Mondeos were recalled for the replacement of an airbag module. This work should already have been done, but it is worth checking.
Glass's View
the Mondeo is a very popular choice for fleet or rental firms, according to trade bible Glass's Guide, so there's no shortage of second-hand models. As a used buy, it makes a lot of sense because most of the depreciation takes place during the first six months of the car's life. Prices tend to be more volatile than in other sectors because of a general over-supply of this type of vehicle in the market.
Life With A Mondeo...
Steve James hasn't regretted a single moment of his six months with a nearly new Mondeo TDCi. "We have family in Spain and drive down there regularly," he told us. "The Mondeo fits the bill perfectly. It's got a huge boot and cruises well, while I usually get 48 to 50mpg out of it."
The 45-year-old sales manager from Dover, Kent, previously drove a Land Rover Freelander, but says he grew tired of its thirst and poor motorway performance. He bought his 10-month-old 51-reg Ghia hatch from Ford Direct for ΂£12,900 last October. "I haggled hard and feel I got a bargain," he said, "although I'm conscious that I'll suffer from quite a lot of depreciation over the next few years."
Steve likes the TDCi's performance and dynamic prowess. "The roadholding is excellent - the car begs to be driven quite hard," he enthused. "The suspension is firm and it can feel a little bit clumpy at low speeds, but once you get on the motorway it's no problem at all." Would he buy another one? "Quite possibly," he said. "I'd definitely stick to the TDCi - I don't think I'll ever go back to petrol."

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