1987 Peugeot 309 SRi review from UK and Ireland

Headlights get damaged by stone chips - use stone guard covers.

Replaced suspension strut at 30,000 miles.

Front tyres last for 15,000 miles hard driving. Rears lasted for 76,000 miles.

Brake pipes replaced after 60,000 corrosion.

Hatch struts failed at 30,000.

Camshaft belt changed at 50,000 as a precaution.

Front pads wore out quickly due to a stone trapped in the unit.

Heater fan diode failed at 60,000 miles.

I went to buy a 205 GTi and walked out with this car, it was newer by one year, cheaper and cost less to insure.

After test drive on a back road, I was smitten. Was a bit noisy on a motorway compared to the VW, but with the Pug, I prefered country roads. Best was on a summers day with the windows down.

With the exception of a plug failure it was faultless considering the demanding driving. Servicing was religiously adhered to. Took it out of the service network to a specialist after 50,000. No harm done. Parts prices vary between dealer and specialists - ring around before buying.

Dashboard was tacky. Car began to get ropey at 80,000k. I sold it because I was moving abroad.

Because of its understated looks and superb handling, I could maintain high average speeds without attracting cops, self righteous drivers etc.

Peugeots are not built like they used to, would buy a VAG product or something German next time around.