Iain Dooley checks out Ford’s diminutive, cheeky SportKa.

Ford’s ground-breaking Ka compact city car was launched as long ago as 1996 – and the sportier variant would not arrive for another seven years.

The Ka’s basic equipment contrasted with its above average ability to entertain drivers. 2004 saw the launch of a mildly tweaked and more powerful SportKa.

Exterior styling and performance were both subtly enhanced over the regular model.

Engines

The name is something of a giveaway; with this version of Ford’s city car you get the more powerful 1.6-litre petrol unit to play with.

Willing and able, if a little vocal when pushed hard, the SportKa is capable of holding its own on demanding B-roads as well as momentum-sapping motorway inclines.

Exterior

A familiar sight on our roads for over a decade, the basic Ka shape is evident from whichever angle you view the car from.

Simple yet effective, the SportKa cuts a fashionable dash even now. In three-door only form it has aged well and just looks right – not something you can say about many other super-small city cars.

Interior

Despite its minimalist cabin you never feel cheated when travelling inside the SportKa.

And it may be a small car but there’s plenty of room up front and a surprising amount of space in the rear – even for adults.

Further back and the car’s boot is a good size for something that was pitched at the urban motorist.

The cabin can be a little harsh on motorway runs due to engine noise.

Driving

The basic Ka surprised many with its ability to entertain. The SportKa takes the experience up a notch or two.

The combination of the peppy 1.6-litre petrol motor, direct steering, supple ride and good driving position all conspire to make you question whether something bigger, more powerful and more expensive really would be a step up.

Ownership

Like any small Ford the SportKa is unlikely to put a strain on your wallet. Running costs should be modest – the car is surprisingly economical when driven sensibly – while regular servicing and insurance shouldn’t prove expensive even by small car standards.

What To Look For

Being a slightly sporty car, make sure you check for the classic signs of abuse: worn tyres, kerbed wheels, sloppy gearchange and clutch action, soft brakes and a lumpy ride.

Also ensure the engine is in good health and cast a eye over the paperwork for any suspicious gaps in the service history.

SECOND GLANCE:

Reasons to Buy:

Affordable, stylish, entertaining to drive.

Reasons to Beware:

Basic cabin design, can prove a little harsh on long motorway journeys, not that many about.

Pick of the Range:

SportKa 1.6 SE

What to Pay:

2003 03 £3,115

2003 53 £3,265

2004 04 £3,625

2004 54 £3,790

2005 05 £4,270

2005 55 £4,460

2006 06 £4,935

* Figures relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition