Citroën Saxo (1996 - 2003) 1.6i 16V VTS 3d (99) (2000/W) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Probably completely the wrong thing. Percieved as being a chavs car and can draw the wrong type of attention. Its a very understated car and has quite a few times left people red in the face.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Family like the look of it but my mum hates the thing, she would literally rather walk than get in it. Friends like it, the power and handling surprised most of them.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I wouldn't buy another saxo, this is my third and would probably be put off buying another French car due to the shocking build quality. If I could go back in time though I would still buy it.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not quite sure yet. Probably something stupidly quick from Japan, although i have been looking at VAG cars recently. Would love a Supra twin turbo or 350Z.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,500

When did you buy the car?

April 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

At the time I thought i got a fantastic deal but after 2 months of ownership not so sure. Didn't have service history but had only done 55k miles.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Had two VTR's before and loved driving those. Loads of fun and power from such a small, light car.

What was the dealer like?

Ok, seemed quite honest but think he may have known that there was quite a large underlying problem and wanted to get rid of it.

What's it like to drive?

Fantastic to drive when its working properly. So much power in such a small car, get it to 4000 rpm and it gives you a real kick up the backside all the way to 7000 rpm. Handles brilliantly but beware of the back end, I've nearly lost it a couple of times on roundabouts. Be sure to buy a good set of premium tyres, they make all the difference.

What's it like to park?

Couldn't be easier, small with all round good visibilty.

Have you had any problems with the car?

In 2 months of ownership I've spent in the region of £1k on repairs and maintenance. That sounds worse than it is though. I had 2 new michelin pilots fitted to the front, could have bought cheaper but like quality tyres. Had cambelt changed as a precaution at £200. Clutch release bearing was wearing and making a noise so booked it in to have a new clutch kit fitted, 3 days before though gearbox decided to give up the ghost. Just got car back after paying £600 for a recon box and clutch kit fitted. Beware if buying a VTS watch the gearbox, they are notoriously bad on these.

What's most practical about your car?

So much pull from a 1.6 16v. Makes VTR's look like a cart-horse. May cost alot to run, insure and maintain for such a small car, but the ability to put a big smile on my face is priceless.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Not really alot to choose from. Electric windows and mirrors as standard. Factory fitted alarm system but its way over sensitive, its got a mind of its own sometimes. Small enough to park it anywhere.