1999 Peugeot 106 Zest 2 review from UK and Ireland

Nothing.

After the continuous problems I had with my old 306, I said that I would never buy another Peugeot. However, this car was such a bargain considering the low mileage and immaculate condition that there was no way I could turn it down.

I am pleased to say that this car has proved to be very mechanically sound, and the running costs don't get much cheaper.

The Zest 2 is only a base model, and the standard equipment is very basic. I am disappointed at the lack of power steering, as most rivals seem to have it as standard on models of this age. The omission of a rev counter and temperature gauge on the dashboard is also woeful. Another bugbear is that there is no light in the boot or glovebox, and you really cannot see what's in them in the dark!

It did however, come equipped with a CD player, a good alarm/immobiliser and body coloured bumpers, which make the car look much better. I also fitted central locking for added convenience- a 2 door kit costs about £40.

As for performance I certainly can't complain for a 1.1. It is without a doubt the most sprightly small-engined car I have ever driven. It accelerates quickly, but gets very noisy at motorway speeds, but it's ideal for runs around town. Average fuel economy is 35-40mpg.

It's very pleasing to drive with a smooth ride, but the lack of power steering makes it hard work at times, as does the notorious Peugeot clunky gearshift. Body roll in corners is a bit excessive sometimes, and you have to grab the wheel with both hands to stop yourself from falling into your passenger!

The outdated cable clutch is a bit too heavy, and the pedals too close together fro people with size 12's, so it loses points on comfort, although the seats are supportive and won't give you back ache like some others do.

The quality of the engineering is fairly satisfying. The exterior is well built, and very resistance to corrosion. I've never seen a rusty 106. Fit and finish of the interior is mediocre, and it hasn't really changed much since the 106 was launched in 1991.

Reading this review, it probably looks like I have a lot of criticism for this car. I should state that I bought this car as a 'stop gap' that would be tidy, reliable and cheap to run, and in this sense it really delivers!