1989 Peugeot 405 Mi16 review from Australia and New Zealand

- Recently I replaced the exhaust gasket next to the oxygen sensor, as well as the catalytic converter.

- New front disc's and pads at 210,000kms, EFI fuel line replaced, modulator, clutch cable clip, driver's side power window, engine mounts.

A Peugeot Mi16 represents a remarkable balance of comfort and performance.

No one will argue, (no one with much sense) over the value and awesome performance characteristics Japanese built cars possess, or potentially with modifications. Having said this, my stock standard 1989 model Mi16 provides me with a motor that wants to be driven hard, and handles like you had died and gone to heaven.

The interior is loaded with all the creature comforts, power you name it! The option pack includes rear head rests, sun roof, and leather upholstery. One feature of the Power Steering is that at low speeds it is light to handle, when at higher speeds the Power Steering stiffens to give you a more responsive feel of the road. This along with the ABS brakes & suspension set up which includes anti roll characteristics adds to the exhilaration you receive when taking this puppy through tight bends throughout the country side.

The 1.9L pulls you off at the lights adequately, in low rev ranges, but once you take her past 4-4,500rpm, she really hauls!. Keeping her in high rev ranges while down shifting before planting back on the power exiting that tight corner, will have you singing the praises of the Mi16 and the good people at Peugeot, in much the same way as I am now.

The overall comfort can be attributed to the semi-bucket seats with lumbar and head support, there is also a center arm rest that you'll find yourself using.

Needless to say you are reading one happy customers review! Purchasing a car (or any car) with 198,000kms you need to expect some repairs as my car is now 16 years old. The import thing to remember is that it is all relative, I purchased this car for AUD$7,900 when it sold new for about AUD$52,000. If that equates to a slightly higher service bill, then so be it.

The greatest tragedy of all is that the Mi16 is a discontinued series.