Buying a SEAT Leon Cupra - what should I look out for?

I currently have a Mk 1 2001 Seat Leon TDi, which I've had for 4 years and while I'm really pleased with it, it's time to get something a bit newer and with a petrol engine (as I'm doing less than 12,000 miles a year)

I'm a massive fan of the Mk1 Leon and I have been looking at a couple of 2004/2005 Cupras and Cupra Rs (with the standard Cupra being harder to find for a later model year) in the £4000 price bracket

I've read your review on the standard car but would you recommend the R over the standard car? Or does the additional power, bigger wheels and larger brakes make them less reliable? If so is there anything I need to be aware of in particular?

Asked on 4 September 2013 by alanboot

Answered by Honest John
The Cupra R has bigger brakes, which the car really needs, but these necessitate bigger wheels with lower profile tyres which destroy the ride,
Similar questions
As I have just retired, what practical new or used hatchback (budget £10,000 -£11,000 would you recommend that would be as much fun to drive as my long loved MX-5 from four years ago?
Great website and I love reading your advice every week. Having spent far too much on a house extension, I can no longer buy the 981 Cayman I desire. I wonder what your thoughts are for fast manual...
I am looking to buy a hot hatch for under £20,000 used that must match four criteria: More than 200bhp, Traction control can be fully disengaged (car will be taken to trackdays), a towbar can be fitted...
Related models
Stylish design. Excellent road manners. Roomy and well-equipped cabin. An easy car to live with and enjoy. Superb value. FR models are the best.