A great used choice
ALTHOUGH the once state-of-the-art 2003 Nissan Micra is no longer a front-page story, but does remain one of the more attractive superminis around.
With used examples now becoming more widely available, the Micra represents an affordable way to own a modern and attractive supermini.
Prices open at around £2,350 for an 03 1.0-litre E with the 1.2-litre versions tacking another £400 onto that price. Expect to pay around £2,750 for the first of the '03 plate 1.4-litre cars in SE trim. The desirable 1.5-litre diesel models open at £2,525. Insurance for the Micra is very reasonable, starting at Group 2 for the 1.0-litre and 65bhp 1.5 DCi diesel cars and topping out at a very affordable Group 4 for the upper specification 1.4-litre 16v models.
The Micra always was a very reliable car and Nissan claim to have ironed out the recurrent problems of the previous model (seized brake calipers and worn constant velocity joints). Check for parking damage and ensure the car has a full Nissan service history and buy with confidence.
Combi Boiler **5 Year Warranty** Supply and Fitted £960.00
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Combi Boiler fitted for £960.00
Ideal Logic boiler
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Terms:
further costs incur if gas supply needs repiping to gas meter
further costs incur if condensate drain point further then 3 meters from boiler
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Valid until: Sunday, June 30 2013
Replacement parts are not too pricey. A clutch assembly will be around £195 and front brake pads are around £45; it's around £40 for the rear set. An alternator should be close to £250 and a radiator around £175 (approximate values for a 2003 1.4SX)
The driving position is good, although the steering wheel adjusts only for rake and not reach. The dashboard is a little more conventional than the wacky styling may lead you to believe, although the Bakelite-style 'ivory' control switches on the upper spec models are a neat touch, apparently designed to ape traditional Japanese ceramics. The Micra feels a good deal sharper than expected on the road, with an emphasis placed on driver enjoyment. The ride isn't bad for such a small car, although noise insulation isn't a strong point. Still, it's a car that can rapidly paint a big smile across your face and all the engines have something to be said for them, the 1.2-litre unit that most people will choose being capable of getting to 60mph in 13.9 seconds and averaging nearly 48mpg.
Go for a clean-looking Micra with a full service history from a reputable source and you shouldn't go wrong. It's still the perfect no-hassle starter car and runabout.
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