I am interested in the ZX3. My previous 2 cars have been used FORDS. The last one died at only 110,000 miles. Head Gasket Blew as well as a cracked valve seat. Both were purchased used, and I don't know how the previous drivers were to their cars. But even if they were rough, 110,000 doesn't seem like much (by today's standards that is) Anybody having problems with their ZX3's?, or can guide me, please IM or post response.

In my opinion, yes... The Focus is a great deal. It's closest kin is the Honda Civic Hatchback, which comes in just about equal to the Focus ZX3, with about $4000 extra on the price tag, just for base models with no options. The 4-door models go up in price. If you have any doubts... take a look at what the European Focus owners say. It's been out there for more than 2 years now. As a general rule, it might be a good idea to wait a year or so if you're leery about a new, untested model. Personally, I couldn't wait to get my hands on one, and I'm very pleased!

If you are talking about value for the money based on features, options, performance and the like than there is no equal to the ZX3.<br><br>Reliability is of course an entirely different question, how reliable the focus will be remains to be seen. It probably won't be as reliable as a Civic in the long run but my estinmate is that its MUCH lower price tag will more than make up for that.<br><br>Definitely get a 2001 model ZX3, then you have a much better chance of avoiding any "first year" type glitches.