The 1 litre is a decent car to drive. You don't get the fun factor of the 1.4 but you rarely find it lacking. There's still a strong feeling that you're driving a quality vehicle. It's absolutely fine as a day to day car, plus an excellent touring car. If you want fun, then get the 1.4. I certainly don't regret buying mine but I do think that the 1.4 is possibly better value.
As for mpg, just over 50 (computer) after 7,500 miles.