I've driven two 1.0 Arosa Ss and can say that the gearbox is categorically cack. It's a bit like stirring paint with a wire coat hanger. Previous car was a 1.4 Arosa Sport; gearbox was better.

Tbh I'd probably go with a Ka. It's bigger, will handle better and go quicker. There's also much more used choice.
 
Iv'e just tested a 1.0 arosa and it was as expected,under powered,very small and a bit cheap and plasticy.I am now thinking about a 1.4 polo(2000-2002 model) or a yaris 1.0 which has a 16v engine and is quite nippy.The reason it has come down to these two is that they are both encap rated 4 and i want my daughter to be as safe as possible
 
The sport and 1.0 have a very nearl identicle gearbox!

THere is nothing wrong with my 1.0 gearbox, i quite like it. I find Kas gears quite notchy TBH.

KAs will rust away within a few years time anyway.

Safety is a big factor when buying a car i agree, especially for your daughter.

One of the reasons i bought my little arosa was because of its safety record!