Citroën Saxo (1996 - 2003) 1.1i East Coast 3d (1999/S) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I am a young driver who wants something a little bit different.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Boy racer, chav car. It's funny.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No - because I am no longer a 'new driver' and thus want something a little bigger and more powerful, but if I was a new driver again I wouldn't hesitate to buy another Saxo.

What are you likely to buy next?

Either a Saxo VTR - similar car just slightly newer and far faster, or an MG ZR. Ultimately though I want something like a Civic R or Focus RS eventually.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£550

When did you buy the car?

March 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

I would say I didn't get a good or bad deal - it was reasonable. The price was about right considering it was a well maintained car and generally clean - but had high mileage.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was cheap, clean, looked like a bit of fun and was a little quirky/had character (the vibrant interior colours).

What was the dealer like?

The guy was great. Very friendly, did not hesitate to answer any questions I had, told me the history of the car.

What's it like to drive?

Surprisingly nippy. It pulls well up to about 35 mph and then you start to feel the lack of power. Can comfortably cruise the M27 at 70. Engine is quite loud - which you'll either like or not. Short ratios mean you do spend quite a lot of your time in 4th or 5th. I was actually quite surprised how spacious it was in the front. I am 6'10' so can struggle fitting in to pretty much anything. Whilst Saxos are not the most roomy thing on earth, I can fit in and putting back the interior cover of the sunroof gives you that crucial extra inch and a half of space. Pedals are VERY close together though which can be a problem if you have big feet. I am a size 13 though and do just about manage.

What's it like to park?

10.5/10 - SUCH a small car, you can park it anywhere!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Short of the odd bulb going, the car has been ridiculously reliable. The interior fan broke back in December 2013 which was a pretty big and expensive job but is quite literally the only thing that has let down on me.

What's most practical about your car?

It is fuel efficient. I'll put 50 quid in and provided I drive sensibly it'll almost last me the whole month. A fair amount of boot space, too.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The interior is just brilliant - blue and yellow seats with yellow trim, gearknob and gauges and multicoloured seatbelts just gives the car a whole lot of character!