How does this car look? Newbie Car buyer.

[iamTakeo]

Hey guys,

I'm looking for an old Ford Ka as my first runaround. Due to my budget its one of the few cars I can afford insurance for, that'll change next year.

Price Range £500-£1000
Ford Ka 1997-2000 1.3L 1300cc

I've found one nearby, linky
96,000 miles [Black]

Edit: Found another, linky
52,000 Miles [Red]

I'm going to bring the most street savvy person I know with me on a viewing when I get the money in. But imagine I'm alone, what kind of things should I look for, or ask during the viewing?

I've sent an enquiry if there is service history with the car.

Also, if I decide its alright for me, what do I do about insurance. Should I set up insurance before I hand over the money and drive off? Can I do that, would I need more details than the Reg plate I take it?

 

[iamTakeo]

I can afford all the insurance band 1 cars, its about £1300 for me (20yr old, 0 years held license, 0 no claims bonus) [had license 4 months]

So, anything with a small engine, I considered a Daewoo Matiz, but realised it was actually a dishwasher.

 

[iamTakeo]

Update, I'm now looking at Ford Fiestas, theres more about, and the ones I've seen have lower miles. Still very cheap budget £500-1000. I've found a few that are MOT'd till Aug 2010, which is ideal as I'm only having it for a year.