Peugeot 306 Hatchback (1993 - 2001) 1.6 Meridan 5d (AC) Owner Review

This was a limited edition model at the time it was new and I felt lucky to find it in quite good order with low miles for it´s age. As a driver it´s got more direct steering than a Golf but overall is a soggier handler - I notice the power steering gets heavier the more you turn it. The ride though is great and it handles speed humps and potholes with ease. The clutch is heavier than a more modern car but not difficult. The gearchange is smooth but I have found myself selecting the wrong gear sometimes as it is a bit imprescise. There is good 'poke' from the 1.6 which happily cruises on the motorway at or above the legal limit but I think it is a bit noisy. Inside, the storage areas for bits and pieces are dissappointingly few and rather small - this model doesn´t have a passenger airbag so has the small cubby in front of the passenger. Back seat space is fine for three children or two adults - three adults will find it a bit tight, though there is okay kneeroom and no proper centre tunnel on the floor. They don´t get head restraints in the back with this model. Front seats don´t support as well as a Golf for example but they´re fine for shorter journeys. The boot is on the smaller side, though has useful width and length front to back - if not height with the parcel shelf in place. The sill is a bit high. A split fold rear seat is useful and easy to use. Not particularly big but quite practical. This is a glassy car with excellent 1980s/90s - style all round visibility and compact dimensions - noticeably better than newer cars and easy to park. Problems I have had include some electrical glitches including wipers not functioning correctly and a broken electric window motor. The Idle Control Valve needs to be replaced though the car continues to drive (badly) as it malfunctions. It has also needed a new starter motor. The engine currently burns some oil though this would be normal for a 21-year old car with that sort of mileage. The paintwork has also faded very badly on the roof and bonnet areas, plus any minor panel dents tend to conspire to make the car look a bit scrappy. I think it just might become a classic!