A Grand Monday: Ford Focus Millennium

The year 2000 - the start of a brave new world, as the clock ticked over from second to third millennium, thankfully with no unwelcome intervention from our computers going crazy, wiping out markets and triggering nuclear wars.

As the world had failed to go into meltdown as a result of the much-hyped 'Millennium Bug', we could afford to concentrate on things that were a little more trivial. In Ford Motor Company's case, it was to launch a range of celebratory models in a one-off hue called Millennium Yellow. Quite why they chose the bold banana shade for the 1000-per model limited editions of Ka, Focus and Puma is anyone's guess, but they're certainly distinctive.

What's more, because Fords of this era were, sadly, somewhat rust-prone, survival rates are already lean. There are (according to DVLA records) less than 300 of the 1000 or so Focus Millenniums built that are still on the road, for example. And most of those are probably dangling perilously close to the edge in shoestring banger territory. After all, a 17-year old car in the same colour as a Morrisons delivery van isn't really going to have that much pent-up demand to satisfy.

To the initiated, though, the Focus Millennium is an interesting package. Based on the range-topping 2.0 -litre Ghia, the yellow peril is well equipped: black leather, heated seats, a high-end stereo, cruise control, climate control. You name it, it's there.

It's also something of a curio. A special edition that was built in strictly limited numbers (internet wisdom suggests 1007 in total, to allow for Ford's press demonstrators), it will one day attract its own level of 'Ford tax'. For example, a Mk1 Mondeo Si in the even bolder hue of Citrine Yellow is quite a collectable thing these days, and was built in similar numbers.

It's also a great car to drive. If you're looking for a useable family car that will not only do everything you need it to do, but also prove itself to be a thoroughly rewarding drive, you've found it.

This example is about as good as you'll get for an old Focus. 60,000 miles with a full service history, seemingly rot-free and immaculately presented. 

Yes, it's a Mk 1 Focus, and yes, they're still a common (though increasingly less common) sight on our roads. But this is a Ford that deserves to be preserved for future generations, and will very soon be recognised as an era-defining classic, and in this trim level, one of the more unusual and collectable. At £800, it's well worth a look.

• Read our Ford Focus review and buyer's guide
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