1987 Peugeot 309 GTi review from UK and Ireland
"Grunty French hot-hatch with fantastic chassis"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Gearbox differential leaked oil despite new seals being fitted.
Brake disc exploded with enough force to split brake caliper in two (!)
Play in front lower wishbone caused eccentricity in wheel hub which caused car to wander randomly away from a straight line when driven at speed (a common Peugeot GTi problem).
Supplementary air device failed (car didn't want to idle when cold, then idled at 2000 rpm when warm. Another common GTi fault).
Rear axle sagged, affecting rear toe (yet another common GTi problem!)
General comments?
Poorly built, thin 'tinny' metal, brittle trim.
Fabulous chassis dynamics. Excellent steering feedback and cornering adjustability. Virtually no understeer, and the 309 would lift-off oversteer in corners, but wasn't as 'knife-edge' as a 205 GTi 1.9.
Torquey 1.9 engine with razor-sharp throttle response.
Great road/trackday car.
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  | A perfect run about for those on a low budget |
| My first car! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 8v Injection Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 140000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 155000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan 200SX |
| Date of Entry | 20th December, 2004 |