Forget Ferrari, the Ford Fiesta is the firm favourite amongst under 25s according to our new survey. Whilst we're sure that many young people would prefer to be driving something with a bit more oomph, commonsense and short pockets dictate that the feisty Fiesta is a more practical and affordable choice. But it was only just ahead of the Vauxhall Corsa in the poll of 18-21 year-olds and not far ahead of the famous Ford Escort as far as 22-25 year-olds were concerned.

And there was even further disagreement when it came to the car in 3rd place. The 18 and under age group went for the Renault Clio, the 18-21's opted for the Fiat Punto, and the 22-25's chose the VW Golf. The poll looked at all the insurance quotations that the company returned in the first four months of 2005 for drivers under the ages of 25 and this illustrated the fact that the majority of the top ten most quoted for cars, were small hatchbacks from the major manufacturers. This reflects the potentially higher premiums that young and inexperienced drivers have to pay for insurance on more adventurous cars.

Most popular make of car amongst young drivers (Feb-April 2005)

Even though quotes take a range of factors into account when finding the best value cover for young drivers, the gap between the premium on a Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsa and something sportier is still too wide for most pockets.

"We do our utmost to get young drivers the best deal on insurance and use our unique relationships with a number of insurers to find new driver discounts and other incentives that can cut the cost of premiums in the early years," says director, Steve McPherson.

"And we also look carefully at any penalty points they may have collected and the reasons behind them, as some insurers will not penalise drivers for points awarded for non road-safety offences.

"Our customers can also benefit from our 'Renewals Club', which offers a range of discounts on car equipment, driving courses and experience days; so at least they can drive high performance cars on a circuit if not the road. It's not like having your own fast car, but it can be the next best thing, and costs a fraction of the price.

"So although young drivers may not yet own the car of their dreams, they can be sure that whatever they drive, by calling us on 0800 330 8219, or by getting a quote online, they will be paying some of the lowest rates available and getting access to some exciting extras," he adds.