Faults:

It's heavy on the front tires (replaced a year ago and I would say they've got another year in them before I get nervous) and also on brake pads - although that may be more to do with the thrill of coming to a swift halt than the car's fault.

I broke the steering rod on a gravel road - I suspect this is due to poor maintenance by the previous owner.

The key-less entry and central locking are shot; boot no longer lots. Ah, the French.

General Comments:

This is a really fun car to drive, it's got a heavy clutch, but around town it's peppy, very responsive in tight situations, but also very smooth. It's a dream to park. Get it out on the open road, however - generally above 3000rpm - and it just takes off; the noise from the sport exhaust is exhilarating. The harder you drive it (especially on rutted dirt roads, of which new Zealand has many) the better it drives.

You get a lot of feedback from the road - I rather like this, you feel like you're really driving it, rather than just turning the steering wheel. This does, however, have a tendency to upset passengers with fragile tummies...

I've replaced the standard stereo with a JVC CD unit (original just had a tape deck) and the standard speakers are terrific.

My only real gripe is that it's a little thirsty, especially when it's getting close to a service and a tune.

Faults:

Clutch gave way after just one month - I new it was too much of a bargain and had suspected foul play - previous owner was a mechanics son! However I should have known better. Cost of repair AUD$1200 (about 500 quid).

Niggling problem where STOP warning light comes on together with engine coolant temperature warning light, suspect bitron control unit. Have had it pressure tested, don't seem to be loosing fluids, fans appear to be very temperamental. We will see this afternoon when new Bitron unit is fitted.

The air conditioning fan doesn't operate - the air-con works, but the fan to blow this around the cabin doesn't. Still a solution to be found.

Otherwise have had no real problems - it should be noted though that these faults have happened within the relatively short time I have owned the car (4 months)

General Comments:

I would recommend this car, for bang for bucks if nothing else.

This car can be used to potter around town, fuel efficiency when driven gently is fine. However if you keep it above 4000rpm, it is fun and frisky, corners will become your best friend.

This is not a fast car in a straight line, but is is fun, it handles excellently, the chassis is good, the brakes are reasonable and pull up when you really need them.

The interior is lovely, the bucket seats give great support, the cabin is minimal yet functional, will all the dials you need and none of the ones you don't.

This car is ten years old and French manufactured so you should expect some niggling electronic problems, however generally it is a good runner and great fun to drive.

In summation, buy this car if love roundabouts.