1998 Peugeot 306 GTi-6 2.0 16v

Summary:

Ignore the rest, this car's the best!

Faults:

Nothing so far - everything sounds sweet.

General Comments:

Superb car, an absolute rocket ship...

However...

Build quality is not brilliant - paintwork is a bit 'thin' in places, and one or two wires look badly placed (e.g. the wire from the rain sensor is not located in the recess intended for it, but trapped instead), and there are a few rattles, and some wind noise. It is also impossible to completely switch off the ventilation fan - annoying design feature.

Gearbox is a bit 'notchy', especially when changing down the gears, until it gets warm, but is fine once it is warmed up.

Engine sounds sporty except at low revs ( < 3000 rpm ) where is just sound like any other car.

Valve gear is a bit noisy when the engine is cold, but is virtually silent once the engine is warmed up to temperature - much like any other sporty 16 valve engine.

Overtaking rev is 4500 rpm in any gear - get ready for takeoff, and punch the pedal, and virtually nothing on the road can keep up.

I love mine, despite it's minor niggles - you can't fail to grin from ear to ear when it takes off and pant's over the Metro Kensington in front :-)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th July, 2000

12th Jan 2001, 06:47

It was my review originally - wanted to add to it.

At 59,000 miles the cambelt snapped - result was two weeks in the garage being repaired under warranty (total cost £1440).

Radio reception is rubbish, CD skips over poor road surfaces.

Paint chips incredibly easily.

Despite it all, I still love it to bits.

1st Apr 2003, 13:30

Just bought one last week and I love it to bits. I had a 1600cc 16v Ford Escort before, so my new Pug felt like a rocket ship.

I've got it in the best possible colour...Black!

Annoying features?

Well, the Air Con doesn't blow cold and there's an annoying leak on the passenger side window at speed. Is it just mine, or do they all judder through the steering over 70mph?

I've looked at a few 306's before buying this one. It seems to be common place for the Air Bag sensors to play up resulting in a constant flashing warning light on the dash. I've found that if you adjust the steering column right up, you can't see it flashing anymore!

Well, if you're considering buying one secondhand then be prepared to spend a little time and money on her, and she'll reward you by being a stunning motor that packs plenty of punch.

25th Apr 2006, 06:18

Sure you didn't buy a Diesel by accident???

25th Apr 2006, 11:55

With regards to the last post, do you even know what a GTI-6 engine looks like, because no way is any Saxo faster than a 6!

You probably drove a 306 with a 1.1 engine in it!

And the best colour is Astor! :¬P.

I love mine to bits despite it jumping it's belt and costing me a pants down job, but I'd do it all over again! (if I had to!)

The 6 does have it's PITA characteristics definitely, but what affordable car doesn’t?

9/10.

25th Apr 2006, 12:59

The above comment made me laugh slightly. See you in my mirrors mate.

1998 Peugeot 306 GTI-6 2.0 16V petrol

Summary:

Great hot hatch let down by patchy build quality

Faults:

Nothing as yet but it is all just about hanging in there. The whole feel of the car is that of one about to self-implode. Servicing is not cheap for a hot hatch with dealers unhelpful.

Large wind noise from the passenger side.

General Comments:

Good handling, the best engine with good low down torque and upper end as well. Gearbox is notchy and a bit syrupy. The spare wheel is located under the car and will be stolen if you don't tie it down or put it in the boot.

Overall a great car, if only the build quality was better.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 21st June, 2000

16th Mar 2001, 03:39

Self imploding comments understandable if you are coming from a Corrado, I am about to buy one after a string of VW's I hope I am not making a big mistake.