I think if its valued at more than £5000 then fully comp is compulsary. Personally I would never go tpft unless I have a banger. The difference in tpft and fc here is probably about another £500 but worth it if you write off the car. Tpft youll get nothing back, fc you will. If youre trying to bring down your quote try someone like elephant, add a second driver (often brings the quote down tonnes), try going for maximum excess and even a 10 month bonus accelerator policy. The best tip I can give you is try the second driver - works on elephant. Try a female, 40+, with no points or accidents for max effect. Knocks £100 off mine (28y/o VTS driver 4 yncb) and knocked £400 off my mates Puma.
As for the original question, Id go 1.4, cheaper petrol, tax, insurance. Theyre not that bad, I used to have a 1.4 8v RT, was a good car.
[Edited by Chris1.4RT on 18 June 2004 at 2:00pm]