Peugeot 306 Cabriolet 2.0 Hardtop 2d (97) (1997/P) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
You are always going to pay more for a cabriolet, but is on-par with cost of Golf cabriolets which are less sophisticated in many areas.
Costs
Pure running costs (exc. problem fixing) is good. Peugeot's servicing pricing is competitive, parts costs seem to be OK (although specific cabriolet parts are pricey due to low volume). Petrol usage isn't bad considering engine's power.
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On the road
Driving
One of the best handling cars I've owned. Steering is still razor-sharp, even after 90k miles. Gearbox can be a tiny bit sluggish before warm-up, but brakes are very good (ABS).
Performance
(2.0 16v engine type) Considering this is a touring-style cabriolet, it is surpisingly swift. 3rd gear overtaking is fantastic and very smooth. Stops very cleanly.
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Living with it
Reliability
Bits that were made and designed in France seem ok (have to remember car has done 90k miles). Essential mechanicals seem strong. Bits done in Italy (by Pininfirina) are questionable. Especially roof hydraulic hoses and windscreen sealstrip.
Image
Has to be one of the most beautiful cars ever penned.
Comfort
Driver and passenger very good (some scuttle shake - but this IS a cabriolet!). Rear passengers surprisingly good, but a bit squashed at shoulder height.
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Security and Service
Security
Seems very good. R/C/L and factory-fitted, reliable alarm/immobiliser. Factor wheel locking nuts. Spare tyre security (hangs under car as per all 306s).
Service
Dealers seem OK, but Peugeot UK are so far very poor to respond to quality of roof hydraulic hoses (all 8 failed) and windscreen seal strip (terrible material quality).
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
Hydraulic hoses for roof mechanism failed (bad quality). Windscreen seal (problem on virtually all 306 cabriolets I've seen). Manufacturer R/C stereo terrible (sound and reception quality) but easy and cheap to replace. Wiper motor noise.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes