Citroën AX 1.4 GT 5d (1989/F) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Great fun in a small package - ideal for a first buy.
Costs
Most parts very cheap, although radiator and gearbox not!
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On the road
Driving
Very quick from a standing start (can beat Golf GTIs up to about 50/60mph), but poor cornering due to inconcievably high ride, which is why so many are rallied or hill-climbed.
Performance
See above.
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Living with it
Reliability
Had mine for 4 years and never once broke down. Easy to work on the engines too - it's not all crammed in like today's 'superminis'.
Image
If you can get a decent looker with the non-fading GT kit on that's in good nick, it still draws looks. The paint on mine was fantastic - no rust on a car that was 11 years old.
Comfort
Seats are a bit uncomfortable on long journeys, but then it's more of a town car.
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Security and Service
Security
Locks aren't bad, but I still added an immobiliser to mine.
Service
Good if you can find a dealer with some enthusiasm, but DO NOT buy parts from Citreon. What most people don't realise is that the 205 and the AX shared the same engines so they can also share parts.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Clutch (after 80k miles), gearbox, brakes (front discs don't like being driven hard) and head gasket.
Other
Bigger tyres (14"s at least) - definitely worth extra grip, but don't go too wide or you get arch grind.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes