My first car, a 2000 Ford Fiesta 1.2 Zetec:
Bought in early 2010, since sold early last year - was really worn-out, previous owner had driven it hard - very bad wear and tear, especially along the chassis - very rusty. The brakes barely worked and the rear doors would rarely lock-up.
Ultimately it wasn't going to last very long, but lasted long enough to learn to drive in. I wanted to keep it, to fix it up when I had more money, but the time I did come into more cash, I bought this much better, cleaner, newer, faster and a lot more comfortable 2003 Fiesta 1.3 Finesse:
Unlike the last one, I have had no problems at all with this car (I bought it early in May). This one is incredibly nippy and good on fuel. Also has an excellent sound system, for a factory-fitted one that is. Heating controls are very reliable on cold mornings, too. I maintain and clean it regularly but haven't removed anything from it or added anything - I'd rather buy an actual "sports car" than to try and turn this into one, like so many of my friends attempt to do with theirs!
I'm considering keeping this one even when I can afford a newer (or knowing me, an older) car, just as long as I can find the space for it!