1997 Citroen Saxo VTS 1.6 16v from UK and Ireland

Summary:

If it didn't keep going wrong, it would be brilliant

Faults:

Camshaft seals worn, causing a major oil leak.

Car misfiring constantly; apparently being caused by a faulty coil pack, which is soon to be replaced for 300 quid.

Wheel arch liners came loose on the front arches.

On my previous VTR, and now my VTS, the thrust bearing makes a very loud noise.

General Comments:

Before the misfiring started, the car was kicking out 137bhp with a K&N, de-cat pipe and a full stainless exhaust. It was fun to drive, and would make most boy racers look stupid off the lights. Top end I got 137mph with a bit left, so it ain't too slow for a little hot hatch.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 9th January, 2005

12th Jan 2005, 11:33

Same happened to me.

22nd Mar 2005, 11:04

Err coil packs don't cost £300 you are being ripped off, cost £60 for my car fitted.

30th Mar 2005, 07:09

Yea I would also agree with you, the Saxo was my ideal first car and when I eventually bought one from around my area I couldn't have been happier.. until everything went wrong with it. So far I have paid out for a full new exhaust, brake pads and discs etc and have had to get the hand break tightened twice within the year. When it goes into reverse it jumps back out and just recently I have been getting the indicator 'tick tock' noise for no reason! Think its time for a new car...

15th Mar 2006, 18:59

I agree. I have a VTS 1.6 16v and it is a rocket on wheels if I can stop the misfire. I am about to change the coil pack, can anybody give me some info where might be the best place to go i.e best deal.

20th Mar 2006, 20:07

For coilpacks, try German Swedish trench (GSF), or euro car parts (ECP). They are a lot cheaper here than from cit/pug.

1997 Citroen Saxo SX 1.1 from Greece

Summary:

The ideal car for someone who enjoys driving, but doesn't have a plenty of money to spend

Faults:

Gearbox oil leak, from a seal.

Premature disk wear.

General Comments:

The car is very quick and nippy for a 1.1 litre.

It handles great in the corners.

Very comfortable on long trips.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd September, 2004

1997 Citroen Saxo SX 1.1 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A fashionable head turner

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with this car since I have owned it, except for when another driver hit it. This however caused more damage to the offending car then it did to my Saxo. This has increased my confidence in its safety and durability.

General Comments:

I really like this car because it came with a spoiler that is larger and better looking then those of the Citroen Saxo Furio's. The seats are comfortable and the positioning of the seat to the steering wheel and pedals is great for someone who is short.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th August, 2004

1997 Citroen Saxo VTR 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A pocket rocket in every way

Faults:

Replaced front brake discs as one was cracked.

Sunroof has a small leak.

Alternator needed replacing.

General Comments:

This car, for all its minor faults, is absolutely great.

The performance is very good for an 8v. Lacks a bit though when there are more than two people in the car.

The handling is typical Citroen; fantastic. Mine has been lowered 60mm, which just makes the cornering even better.

With a ram air induction kit and a Powerflow exhaust, the 1.6 gives a great sound, and also gets a performance boost.

Citroen's build quality is a bit iffy, as I had a 1.1 Saxo as my first car, and when it was lowered, the dash seemed to rattle a lot.

The seats are very supportive, but the cushioning seems to compress a lot, leaving you sitting on the metal frame.

Otherwise, this car is a great buy.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd July, 2004

12th Nov 2005, 03:48

I took one of these out for a test drive once.

It's quick enough, but you don't feel any shove in the back under acceleration.

It's a good looking little car, but it feels quite cheap on the inside, lacks a bit in terms of luxuries and the footwell is so cramped it makes driving difficult.

22nd Oct 2006, 14:56

Adding another point to the focus remark. having been in one it certainly feels quicker than it actually is!

23rd Oct 2006, 06:13

The VTR has 2 times, 9.9 for the 97, and 9.2 for the later models.