Selling your classic car? It's FREE to list your car on Honest John Classics | No thanks

Peugeot 309 GTI v Nissan Note

Since I gave up my company car and got a job minutes from home by bicycle I don't cover many miles during the week but do occaisional longer trips some weekends.

Having noted your reccomendation of the Nissan Note I bought a 56 plate 1.6 manual SVE which has been very reliable apart from an airbag warning light which now needs attention due to the MOT changes.

With a son who drives a 1992 Mini I started wondering what it would be like to run a an older car with less electronic gadgets to go wrong and simpler for the home mechanic like me to work on.

Immediately I am drawn to the 309 GTI having owned a brand new 1.3 XL and later on an older 1.6 SRi. I loved both these cars for various reasons back in the 80's but now wonder how a GTI would shape up to modern life.

I have spotted a very smart original looking example for sale at £1995 and thinking I may be able to knock the price down a bit am tempted to give it a go and sell the Note. Am I deluding myself that this is a good plan?

Asked on 24 June 2012 by Stuart

Answered by Honest John
The 205 and 309 were two of the first cars (after the Citroen BX) designed without rust traps, but their construction is still 'light' so you have to be absolutely certain there is no rust in the structure because it cannot easily be repaired. Valve stem seals of GTIs tended to last only about 60k miles so that's usually the reason for a smoker.
Similar questions
Dear Honest John, I have the opportunity to purchase a fine example of a very low mileage 2002 Jaguar XK8 convertible which has had one private owner from new. It is in excellent condition and has been...
Can you suggest something frivolous for an old geezer to use for pottering around the Sussex lanes when the sun's out? I fancied a W107 Benz but you say it's "too soft a drive to appeal to enthusiasts...
I was wondering what your opinion on buying used Peugeot 205s were - a good buy? Currently looking at a 1993 L reg red turbo diesel model with 99,000 miles and price range £600 - £900.
Related models
Easy to drive and manouevre into small spaces, roomy cabin with plenty of headroom in the back, some clever and practical features inside, economical dCi diesels, well built.
 

Compare classic car insurance quotes and buy online. A friendly service offering access to a range of policies and benefits.

Get a quote