1989 Peugeot 205 XS from UK and Ireland - Comments

After one week of owning the vehicle the starter motor stopped working.

This was not a problem as I replaced it myself at a cost of £25.

I then put the car through its mot which it failed. (Rusty brake pipes & side lights not working).

I did the work myself, the cost was only £25!! (this is very good considering the car has done 136 000 miles!!)

It ten passed the mot, however, emissions were not too good and oil was being burnt & leaking into the coolant.

This was rectified by purchasing a head set (gaskets, valve stem oil seals etc)

Most of the work I had to do was because the previous owner neglected the car.

This car is ridiculously quick for its engine size and handles like it is on rails!

It's a wolf in sheep's clothing!

The bodywork is immaculate with no rust (after 15 yrs).

The seats have started to wear, but taking in to account the mileage, this is to be expected.

The car is an insurance loophole for first time drivers wanting a fast car.

0-60 in just over 9 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph.

I am the writer of the above. Two years on, I have owned 7 more of these cars.

Some faults I have found to be very common are;

Starter motor,

drive-shaft,

brake pipes,

Alternator,

Head gasket,

gear selector rods are a HUGE weakness- look out for these popping off (you will know, as 1'st and 2'nd gear won't be selectable).

All in all, I have found these car's fun to drive. They are however, aging and becoming more troublesome than previously.

I have had to do a lot of work on these cars, and hate them to bit's. They are money pits, but when they work (rarely), they are great fun.

If you are looking to buy one, look for evidence of careful ownership.

I have broken three of these cars in the last 3 months, as they have not been economically viable to repair.

Last week I replaced the starter motor, battery, thermostat, radiator and whole exhaust system on my 205 xs. The following day, the drive-shaft snapped.

Today, I have replaced this. Now the gearbox has gone. I think this will be my last 205- I've had enough!!!

Only buy if you are an enthusiast, as break downs are inevitable.

Honda, here I come. (I know longer have the enthusiasm I had for these at aged 17- reviewed above).