mk1 Focus (estate?) for a cheap runabout?

[mjb1]

It's about time the missus got her driving sorted out. She had lessons and failed the practical test twice a couple of years ago (silly little mistakes due to nerves). Then she lost confidence/interest and hasn't had another go since. What she really needs is practice and time behind the wheel to build her confidence up.

She's not driving any of my cars, so we are looking for a simple, cheap (which generally means common/plentiful), easy to use and maintain family friendly car. Looking to spend under a grand on buying it, and it needs to be low powered, reliable and economical.

So far I'm thinking mk1 focus (probably estate, not sure the hatch would have a big enough boot), more than likely petrol engined. Is there much preference between the 1.6 and 1.8 petrol engines (the 2l is probably a big OTT)?

Any alternative suggestions? What about an early Fabia 1.4 petrol?

[mjb1]

Put a deposit on a W reg 1.8 Focus estate today. 96k miles, the bodywork is a bit scruffy, but it has 11 months MOT and seems mechanically sound. For £700, I'm happy it'll do the job.