Opel Corsa C

   The Opel Corsa C was produced since 2000.

   The entry-level three-cylinder 1.0-liter petrol engine is eager, but rather strained on the motorway. The 1.2- and 1.4-liter petrol engines are pleasantly zingy and flexible, but the rather jerky semi-automatic transmission is best avoided. The 1.3 diesel is willing.

   Light steering makes the Corsa a doddle to park, but it feels numb at speed. There's also lots of body roll in corners, and at low speeds you'll feel every bump in the road. The ride gets better at higher speeds, but it's no match for a Skoda Fabia's.

   Various noises disturb occupants, and wind roar increases as speed builds. Even when cruising, engine noise is too apparent. A fair amount of road noise filters into the cabin, too. That said, the Corsa remains on a par with most of its rivals in this respect. The controls operate cleanly, although the gearchange is a little rubbery.

   Given the mean equipment levels, the Corsa appears pricey, although sizeable discounts are easy to come by. Residual values are modest, but all Corsas are impressively frugal and running costs are low.

   Reliability should not be a particular worry for Corsa owners because Opel mechanicals have a reputation for rugged durability. The interior is solid enough, but not as classy as Opel's newer models, or many of the Corsa's key rivals.

   The Corsa's safety spec is off the pace. Basic versions come with anti-lock brakes and a driver's airbag, but nothing more. More expensive models have twin front airbags, but side and curtain airbags are an option across the range. Although deadlocks aren't fitted to all versions as standard, thieves will find it hard to drive a Corsa away.

   Good rearward visibility makes parking a simple operation, but thick windscreen pillars obscure too much of the road ahead. The driving position is not best suited to taller drivers, while height adjustment for the steering wheel is only an option on most models. Key controls are close to the driver, but the stereo controls are unhelpfully small and fiddly.

   The Corsa's rivals have grown inside and it now feels somewhat cramped in comparison. There's reasonable space up front, but it feels tight when asked to accommodate four adults, due to less impressive head- and legroom in the rear. The boot is a good size and the rear seats split to give more practicality and capacity. However, they cannot be folded completely flat, which hampers attempts to carry large loads.

   Entry-level Expression models are very poorly equipped and far too many basic features are either not available or cost extra. You have to move up the range to gain features that most entry-level rivals have as standard, such as a CD player and remote central locking. Even the pricier models seem scantily provided for compared with their main rivals.

   Production of the Opel Corsa C ended in 2006. It's successor the Corsa D has some design similarities with the Opel Astra and is produced since 2006.

   Advantages: The Corsa C is a sharp looker next to many rivals, and it feels peppy to drive. It gets better the faster it goes, and is capable on motorways. There's a long list of security kit and a big boot.

   Disadvantages: The cabin is rather cramped for four passengers and the trim materials are dour to look at. Standard kit is miserly.

   Verdict: Easy on the pocket, but misses out on space.

   Also consider: Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 206.

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