Peugeot 309 1.6 GL 5d (1986/C) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Cheap to buy, cheap to run, cheap to maintain. Build quality is good, but thin-gauge body panels can be tinny. Not many toys, but it does the job.
Costs
Parts are cheap and lots of pattern parts available from factors. Not too many 309s in breakers yards (they were never particularly popular when new) but many parts shared with 205, of which there are 1,000's! Insurance is inexpensive. Expect 35-40mpg.
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On the road
Driving
Nice, peppy drive - good handling, sweet gearchange and willing engine. Handles better than equivalent Escort, Astra, Maestro or even Golf. Communicative steering and impressive brakes. Good fun overall.
Performance
Lively 1.6 engine is free revving and willing. Gearbox can be clunky, but is nice to use. 90bhp isn't going to win any records, but will break the ton (just) and is far more fun than the pedestrian 1.3.
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Living with it
Reliability
Never had to do anything to it other than service it. Starts on the button every time - the only thing that has ever broken is the tip of the choke lever!
Image
309s have always been underrated - old folks image right from the start (especially in hearing-aid beige and varicose-vein blue), but great chassis, good build and top engines make this a better bet than any of its comtemporaries.
Comfort
Very comfortable seats and driving position. Suspension gives good control and pliant ride. Dash is uninspired and can rattle alarmingly! Thin body panels resonate. Worth spending a bit on sound insulation - makes such a difference and feels more solid.
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Security and Service
Security
Mine's been broken into twice. Why the toerags chucked a brick through the window each time I have no idea, as the doors can be opened with a hair grip! Unlikely to be stolen, but at least fit a steering lock.
Service
Dealers are helpful and parts reasonable. Simple mechanics means easy servicing by any reputable independant or DIY.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
No problems at all, except for exhaust manifold nut vibrating loose. Sounded like dodgy tappets for ages until I tracked it down...! Watch out for the crankcase oil breather and filler pipes sludgeing up.
Other
Don't launch a boat with one - the rear brake drums will rust up solid!
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