Fair comments, but at the end of the day my old mk 1 escort kept going mile after mile, with no attention mechanically bar servicing at 3-4000 mile intervals - I've yet to own a viva that I can say the same for (and I've owned several!) Small Vauxhalls just aren't quite as tough mechanically as equivalent fords of this era - However, they're both great cars to drive and look at, although the ford feels livelier and is more fun round the bends (to my mind!)
I'd definately buy one of either (and quite often do!) when offered one at a reasonable price - But here's the thing - Even 4 door escorts are fetching decent Firenza money - Hence you buy Vauxhall, you get more for your money!
Does anyone here own an FD Victor? I love those things!