Cheap Citroën C6 Project 9: The straw that breaks the camel's back?

[@gerardnieborg]

I had the same dilemma with my Volvo S80, loved driving that monster. It got a massive oil leak, I put it to the side and bought a Xantia 1A as a temp car. Eventually decided that the Xantia was fine too and sold the S80. Way cheaper in fuel, tax and insurance.

[@comcarclub]

Every time I see a video on the C6, something has gone wrong with it. And I still want one more than ever. That old pic of you next to the Saxo is brilliant.

[@UPnDOWN]

It's not that bad, to be fair. The content would be pretty boring if I just kept filming nothing going wrong 😃

[@Matu007]

I have daily driven a C6 for 5 years now. I'd say that this car is like any other, when it has been taken care of, it will not have shitloads of problems like his C6. I'm having the yearly service next week and haven't had to take the car to repair anything that went bad in this year. Biggest thing my car has undergone was undercarriage overhaul few years back, because rubber does not last forever in the joints

[@pierrechristian6767]

Me too, but they're as scarce as hens teeth here in Australia.

[@daj021]

Think again!

[@johnboy384]

The designed obsolescence of these plastic components on modern cars,... saves the manufacturers money while costing the consumer as the longevity of the parts is less than they would be if they were made from sturdier materials. Cool Saxo hoon throwback pic too mate. =)

[@jn904]

Had a similar situation like you, and the solution to my issues was one of the most cherished Clio Mk1 1,4 examples I could find - a bit scruffy on the outside (cheap!), but very well kept velour interiour and mechanically almost pristine. It does an easy 40mpg in spirited, not painfully restrained city driving, does an easy 50 on a run, and is surprisingly comfy for a family of four. I just threw 6x14 steel wheels and an old OMP rallye steering wheel, and de-catted it, and it is a nice rorty and sweet-steering piece of kit, too, when needed. Surprisingly easy to work on and DIY maintain, too (and I don't have a garage or anywhere near the facilities that you have). They are very reliable, if the right example is chosen.

[@cme2cau]

I'm in Australia. That difference in road tax! Wow! Here it's on weight and capacity. The price of diesel here is about 10% more than petrol. When the difference was more like 30% it was cheaper to drive my 1.8 petrol Corolla (8.5l/100km, 33 mpg) than my 2.0HDI C5 (7l/100km, 40mpg) I calculate the economy so these are my real world figures.

[@whitevanman8703]

23:55 I believe you need what is called a "rugged" phone, I have had a Cat(erpiller) and have just ordered an Oukitel WP23. The charge ports have a rubber cover. Being in the building trade I find these phones very useful, I can leave it lying around in my carpentry workshop, pick it out of a pile of sawdust no problem. Essential for people in dirty rough trades.

[@micheltebraake7915]

Hearing your story, the C6 will be replaced by a C1, hopefully they also come with a velor interior. A few years ago I also had to get rid of my Ford Sierra on LPG because of too high costs (become unemployed) here in the Netherlands.

[@chrispenn715]

I love the C6 and was tempted by one when they were new - but I think your videos have cured me. Sadly, this is why they will probably become extinct. Still - at least you can say you had one! 🙂

[@Mike_Ockiner]

Same here. I've always wanted a C6 but the road tax cost combined with the constant need for maintenance puts me off. Such a shame.

[@johnhealy2001]

Yes can buy similar pipes on eBay 5the

[@UPnDOWN]

It's actually been pretty good, I'm only documenting the problems.

[@chrispenn715]

@@UPnDOWN yes but you also have the skills and facilities to fix it. Nightmare for a pleb like me 😂

[@Matu007]

I have daily driven a C6 for 5 years now, this car has just been awfully taken care of in its previous life. I haven't had one problem with my C6 that he has had with this 750£ one. Yes, they might pop-up in future, but not all together and every old car has issues.

[@chrisoncars4879]

2.7 C6s are currently £630 a year to tax, certainly not cheap! And they're awful on fuel around town, I agree. And repairs tend to be pretty heafty ... They're a labour of love, for sure, but I love the C6. Certainly a lot of sense in having a modern small petrol car for the daily grind, I have one, among other things. Choices are pretty limited for really cheap tax and 3 pot petrols, C1 trio really. But they tend to be reliably tough, easy to get parts and they're great fun to drive for short distances. Not especially comfy, though. Interestingly, my C6 was manufactured in Feb 2007 and registered in March 2007, yours was manufactured 2 months later but registered 18 months later. Those 'GJ' cars certainly show the sales problem the C6 had.

[@UPnDOWN]

One day I'll find out which field the GJ cars sat around and waited in!

[@bobbyblue1953]

I had a C6, it nearly bankrupted me, these days I run a 71 reg Focus 1.0 litre eco boost mhev, I get 55mpg on a motorway run and high thirties/low forties around town, I love it, there's your three cylinder engine as well

[@chrisperyagh]

I'm grateful for the relative simplicity of the V6 XM compared to this! One time I kept getting a low coolant warning even when the coolant level was fine. I knew Harris's over Nutbourne way had a scrapped XM right by their main office and shot over there in the chance it still has the coolant sensor. I got there just as they were closing the gates that evening to pilfer the coolant sensor from it and gave them a tenner for their trouble. That V6 XM was plagued with hydraulic leaks nearly every other week - the low pressure pipes weren't a problem for me to replace if i could be arsed to, but most of the time it ended up parked over Meakins in Chi after hours for them to find the following morning. As much as I like the C6 as it was the last of the big Citroens (within reason), I think I'll give the idea of owning one a big miss, although won't pass up the opportunity to drive one if given a chance.

[@Teribus13]

I know they don't have velour, but my last car was a 2011 mark 3 KIA Rio 1.1CRDi. They're really not bad cars and plenty cheap to run. £0 annual tax. It was giving me real world 57MPG - I do about 50% motorway miles, the rest being A-road and town. I found motorway speeds actually hurt the MPG from the little 1.1 diesel, so if you're only doing town and A-road you might even do better than 57. The 1.1 is a 3-cylinder engine so it's actually quite thrummy for a diesel. The later mk3 Rio 1.1 diesels can be had with climate control, cruise control, sat nav, reversing camera, and other goodies. I always found mine to be comfortable enough. It would sit all day at 70MPH if you wanted to. Boot space is a little bit lacking, but you've got the S-Max for that. So, yeah, there's my shout. Mark 3 KIA Rio 1.1 diesel.

[@andrewgurney6019]

That car is seriously good looking.

[@UPnDOWN]

It is, isn't it?

[@johnathanpearson3203]

@@UPnDOWN I got a Getz Diesel it's great. Good to drive and I get 50mpg. 👍

[@alanbellwood3902]

I love running my P38 Range Rover as a Daily. 4.6 V8 returning 18mpg average 24 Extra Urban. My Go to when skint has always been either a Mercedes C class or a BMW 3 or 5 series. Velour, reliable engines especially straight 6's lots of breakers so lots of cheap parts comfortable. And cheap to buy. Also loved my S70 178k miles 1 previous owner cost me 800 quid 5 Cylinder noise went OK sounded like a Subaru easy to work on and 28 MPG Combined.

[@UPnDOWN]

None of those sound particularly cheap to run, though!

[@alanbellwood3902]

@@UPnDOWN I look at the overall picture with the V8 unleaded is cheaper than diesel, No EGR and parts are easy to buy and fit. With the Merc No EGR even on the Diesel a good car can be had for 1200 and a runner from 700, again parts are plentiful tried and tested engines and no silly computers or electronics to cause issues. With the Volvo MPG is in par with the Merc bomb proof mechanicals lots of spares rust not normally an issue and decent MPG around Town. Compared to my neighbours Audi which clogs EGR, DPF or throws emissions faults because of local use, or Mini which again has emissions issues, us hard to work on plus has a higher purchase price my running costs including servicing tax and insurance are 1200 per year.

[@AllThingsAlex]

Totally get where your coming from Rich. Ive just bought myself an old R reg 106 Diesel (non turbo). Should easily return 50+ pg on a run and being french its comfortable too!.

[@thisiszaphod]

Sorry to hear your pain. First Generation Smart ForFour? My wife had one for many years - trouble-free comfy cheap motoring and fun. Sold on by her - when she had a midlife crisis - for a Mini Convertible.

[@UPnDOWN]

It's a Mitsubishi Colt underneath, I believe.

[@pauladams5673]

I have two Peugeot 308 1.2 3 cylinder 130 and they're brilliant. Best car on the Swedish Moose test. Cast iron cylinder liners so has longevity.

[@RedHunter500]

Heart vs Head. I love my Rover 75 V6 Auto but every time I drive my wife's Yaris 1.4 I am amazed at how its almost as good at what the Rover is good at and soo much better at what it is good at (47 mpg everywhere, ease of use,, ease of maintenance). I'll cling to the V6 as long as I can but feel its days are numbered since I scarvely commute these days. So, in a twist, I have bought a Morris Minor as my daily driver! £0 tax, 35 mpg, ridiculously easy to work on, good spares availability, will hold its value and is a lovely little thing to drive. My other choice would be an MGF - cheap as chips, reliable and a hoot to drive (I've had two) but I now live surrounded by speed bumps and, while they are comfortable on a decent roads, round here they are purgatory.

[@UPnDOWN]

My BX mk1 will be £0 tax next year!

[@nickhaag7803]

I'd agree about the Morris Minor, one of the few old cars that can realistically be used as a daily. As you say, a doddle to work on, silly cheap bits and can be upgraded easily if required. Just keep on top of the rust.

[@martinenstrom8206]

I would name it seasick Steve. Interesting car, but you are right. You’re not using it for what it’s for. Maybe drive a small electric. Cheap to run, zero tax. No plastic for daily cooking. My wife recently got a Honda e. It’s pretty neat.

[@zarkodevalle1842]

Peugeot 406 is comfortable, has a velour interior, and a great 2.0 HDi engine. Other engines available, if you do not want a diesel. And should be cheap to run.

[@jugostran]

I second this. You could also go with a Xantia.

[@UPnDOWN]

They are, good call. I have a remap for that engine on my laptop too!

[@walkern]

Could the coolant splatter just be flinging off belts n stuff from where it dribbled during pipe swap?

[@UPnDOWN]

I like your optimism.

[@MattBrownbill]

I thought that. You can try the fluorescent dye test, once it has dried off, to spot the tricky leaks.

[@manfredschmalbach9023]

@@UPnDOWN 😅😂🤣 I can assess the C6 ain't Your first Citroën from that remark, and not the second either ...

[@porsche356a]

Just bought a 2013 Fiat Panda Twinair 875cc 2 cylinder turbo to replace our 2006 Peugeot 407 SV 3.0 v6 here in Sydney, Aus. The Peugeot is lovely and has only done 99,000kms, very like your C6, but we only do short runs, and its a guzzler! The Panda is really quite fun to drive, economical, and we can get 5 in it for short journeys. See Hubnuts review of one. Worth considering.

[@kevinoconnor7684]

Great report on the C6 lovely sound.. Think you need a C2 Diesel.. I drove one for a month.. garage replacement such a hoot and soooo good on ⛽️.. didn't want to give it back..

[@UPnDOWN]

I don't want one of those engines, to be fair. They can be quite troublesome.

[@kevinoconnor7684]

@@UPnDOWN yes you have a point there, the bloody things are in everything..

[@leedickenson6791]

I love my C6 but I feel your pain. Mine is currently waiting on some parts to pass it's MOT at some astronomical prices. I think it will bancrupt me before I give up on it.

[@roberttaylor7462]

Sorry to see this issue, the values will be suppressed for another few years or so. When I had the C6 as a daily it never went on journeys of under 10 miles and no urban driving unless I had to carry something, as the fuel consumption made it uneconomic to use. The average true fuel economy around 35mpg or 38+ on the trip. This was 'poor' and I put such low figure down to having a missing engine undertray. The solution is not to use this as a daily get an econobox for those journeys - a basic 1.0/1.1 Saxo or 106 would do the job and decent economy.

[@UPnDOWN]

Mine's missing the undertray, too. Took it off when I got it to repair it (fractured in the usual place) and still haven't put it back on!

[@malcolmherbert5127]

I’ve owned an Audi A2, it was fabulous, I’d have another at the drop of a hat if I was in the market for another car. Try one, don’t listen to anyone else’s opinions, and especially when they make absurd comments about the single wiper making the car rock when it’s working. The main thing I’d consider next time is to get one with 16” wheels as opposed to 17”. They are a hard riding car naturally because they’re so light bodied, but having low profile tyres only accentuates the ride. Mine was the 1.4 SE petrol version, the 3 cylinder diesels are only about £35 a year tax I believe.

[@40swhistleryates60]

Bought a 2012 black Aygo Ice 4 door, 5 speed manual in June this year with 39000 gen miles on the clock. My first time ever owning a 3 pot and its great fuel economy. After a few calcuations, it looks like i am achieving 50 + mpg "extra urban..?" and I do thrash it a bit. A nippy little thing round town. Zero road tax, cheap insurance, super easy to work on/service.... what's not to like..?.. Ok I admit it is a bit noisy inside at higher speeds, not the best looking, but its a resonably comfortable drive and especially with fuel prices the way they are at the moment, in my eyes, its a no brainer.. Just done a full engine bay service on it, oil, filters, plugs, belt etc all done for under £45. This one has aircon and as the model implies "Ice", it really does blow out very cold air.. 😊

[@UPnDOWN]

They make a LOT of sense.

[@jn904]

@@UPnDOWN An Aygo retrofitted with Twingo Ph1 Velour seats sounds nice.

[@arkeys74]

Well, the 1.0 litre in the original PSA/Toyota triplets is basically a Daihatsu engine. I almost find them entertaining to drive because the engine sounds so buzzy 😃

[@nickmoore2301]

I know fuel prices are pretty awful right now, I can't run my Rover 25 1.4 on E10, I have to use E5 momentum fuel that costs 8p more per litre, will I sell the car because of this, no. Keep the C6 and just get a small run about, 107, Aygo, C1, a phase 2 clio dci on a 2003 plate is only £30 a year to tax, no DPF and does 70 + MPG, I owned one and it was a fantastic little car. Keep the C6 as a high days and holidays car. All the effort you have put into keeping it going, would be a shame to see it go, sorn it over winter, enjoy it in summer 👍😁 keep up the great videos ☺️

[@UPnDOWN]

Why do you have to use E5 in a Rover 25? Surely they're E10-proof? The Saxo is and that's probably older. I probably wouldn't sell the C6 (not an easy car to sell anyway), just park it up like you say. It is a car that doesn't like sitting around, though.

[@Ratty_Rex]

..... if you buy a horse that'll do the same speed, more fuel efficient.... and feed multiple families of four (care of Findes Lasagne) at end of life. 🤣 Great video, can't wait for the live stream. 😱

[@UPnDOWN]

The green option!

[@oojimmyflip]

@@UPnDOWN dont forget all the sustenance for the veggie patch to😂

[@anthonyockelford1667]

Toyota Yaris there's a reason why every take away has one!

[@alancoomes2797]

Hi, I run a 64 plate Megane Sports Tourer 1.5 dci 110 53 mpg to and from work, more on a run even with a roof box ! £20 a year tax (and its an Auto !)

[@kimmohietala5359]

C4 Cactus 1.2 is a three cylinder. Ours is a five speed manual and have done over 100 000 km with no problems. They are very light and I reckon handle quite nice. Riding little higher than your normal hatch back that is great for our bumpy driveway. We took her to a 1000 km trip to Sydney a few years back and that was a comfy journey as well. Heater controls with the touchscreen are bit of a pain but no other complaints.

[@UPnDOWN]

Couldn't be dealing with a touchscreen in a car. Hate them!

[@tigermoth3194]

C3 Picasso 1.6 HDI?......£30 Tax, 40MPG around town and 50 on a run, 5 Doors, back seats drop flat, nice soft suspension, albeit a bit weird looking. I bought one 12 months ago and we (the family) use it as a spare vehicle, a van for skip runs, moving (small) furniture, etc. We had to buy a new washing machine last month and it fit perfectly in the C3, which saved us £20 on store delivery costs 👍 My 17yr old daughter is currently learning to drive in it too and loves it because outward visibility is spot on. You'll just need to find an enthusiastic Citroen Specialist in your area for servicing 😉

[@UPnDOWN]

I just don't want one of those engines in my life, to be honest! Could do without the aggro. I think it needs to be petrol.

[@edwilliams4581]

I will maybe/probably end up with a C6 as a weekend fun/long run car, but an XM is probably next, so your "waffle" is very educational to me. As others suggest, the C4 coupe might be a good option worth considering? 3 cylinders? We ran an early petrol 1.2 Cactus for a few years, bloody gutless thing but sounded good. The C Crosser with the 2.2 Hdi engine is a solid bus and I get 400 miles per tank. We bit the bullet and bought a 2013 Peugeot 3008 hybrid 4 recently - gets well over 600 miles on the same size tank (50l or thereabouts per fill). That'll teach you about hybrids to generate more KZbin content - haha! :-)

[@556johny556]

As someone who has an XM, I can tell you that it couldn’t be any more different from the C6. If you stick with the 2 liter petrol or 2.1 diesel there is plenty of room to reach everything. Those cars are primitive compared to even the lowest spec C6 that they sold in France. Now if you were to get into the V6 XM, (whether that be 12v or 24v) there you’ll be sure to have a bit more similarity with the C6 in terms of oddness, complexity, and lack of room. Not to mention the V6 versions have diravi steering. Either way, the XM is truly a magical thing to own (at least pre facelift I’d say), but just be careful to not pick out one that has even a single electrical issue. If someone is selling one and says some minor electric things are not up to snuff (handbrake warning light operative only sometimes, etc) it could potentially signify bigger problems to come. After all, the electrics were the biggest issue on these.

[@aaaabababa]

@@556johny556 from personal experience of owning an XM i can safely say that the Electrical issues aren't too terrible to fix, about 90% of the ones i ahve encountered up to now were switches that had tbe cleaned and regreased or the odd sensor here and there while a Brake light warning when turning the indicator on and the taillight being very dimm was a bad grounding cable.

[@morkelork4730]

My advice: a later model Peugeot 205/309! I've been using it as my hoby/kind of classic car for the last 3+ years, and it is lovely. Velours seats (especially the brown XS ones), a supple saxo-like ride, plenty of space, and it will do about 18ish km/litre. Further, they are not awfully rusty cars. Only problem I have with mine is a badly installed head gasket, that will need to be replaced. Then again, it hasn't needed much attention while I had it, and I've done ~10.000kms a year

[@UPnDOWN]

They probably ride better than the Saxo, to be fair.

[@ciaranwebb6871]

Must say all of that is why I went with a C5 - the 2.2 will do mid 30s around town and is only 200 quid odd to tax. Parts are also a lot easier to get at being a straight 4 transverse and in a large ish engine bay. The c6 does look fab though. Maybe a 2.2 C6

[@UPnDOWN]

C5 definitely more sensible than a C6, yes, but the C6 feels special.

[@Angry-Lynx]

2.0 diesel is the most reliable engine

[@Zadster]

Its amazing how many people don't realise you can rotate caps/nuts/bolts anticlockwise first and avoid cross-threading. Top tip that. SORN the C6 until summer holidays, and get a Berlingo, HubNut stylee? 5 seat (with kids anyway) economical, biggish, easy parts etc. Love the 3-pot Fiestas, but they aren't really 5 seaters. Berlingos aren't luxobarges, but decent space and MPG. Good for snotting around in, kids to school, shopping etc. I almost feel dirty for saying so, but BMW MINI?

[@UPnDOWN]

My wife likes BMW Minis! I don't, though...

[@hoddy121john]

U would assume I that I had not been to the dealer to buy a part, because I'm apparently still walking unaided, 😄👍classic, pity about the car road tax, just as bad in Ireland,actually worse. Great video. 👍

[@chrisbury4635]

Spraying coolant could possibly be what pissed out over the belts when you did the pipe and the bit of smoke might be from a crack in one of those EGR metal pipes ? Those Renault Twingo 0.9 tce's are good fun to drive but they warm up your shopping (Rear engine) if that's too expensive maybe look for an early Suzuki Swift 3 pot, might even have a velour interior ? 😁

[@Lou-f]

Definitely keep it for extra curricular activities, and a Saxo for the 18mph stuff 👌🏻👌🏻👍 Exposure fail, audio win!!

[@UPnDOWN]

I didn't realise how well the little mic had picked up the Spit until I played it back.

[@sannmarc]

keep it, park it, enjoy it for when you have the time. I am bashing my head for dropping th bx's and c5 I had. get a little run about for a to b work. I you hav the hart for it, get a bx as runnabout..... it is dirt cheap, and will make you smile, and you do have the xperience to kep them going.

[@angusnz7910]

I 100% feel your pain towards the end of the video…should your fussy car be your every day car, but you still love it to bits, but no longer makes sense. My thoughts exactly with my Ro80.

[@keithmatthews1673]

We are living in difficult times. Ordinary people are being hit by the effects of Covid, Putin and maybe Brexit and we are trapped in a storm of spiraling costs. The government have been caning motorists even before the latest trouble and the cumilative effect is now financial misery. My only suggestion for a car would be a diesel that comes in at 30 quid a year road tax so probably pre 2017. A 2016 car would be ULEZ compliant so that might be the sweet spot. I run a 2012 VW Golf Plus 1.6TDi with 30 quid tax. You may get timing belt, DPF and EGR issues but you can deal with them. Bad times!

[@UPnDOWN]

You're right, though my car would have had a £1k budget purchase budget too, though!

[@paulgee6111]

For economy a Citroen AX is hard to beat, visas have some interesting engine options also. Peugeot 104 is economical and fun to drive.

[@UPnDOWN]

Very old, though. Not much good for daily use in 2022.

[@paulgee6111]

@@UPnDOWN True unless you can find a good low mileage example that's been cared for. AX is hard to beat for fuel economy though!

[@paulgee6111]

I've always fancied a Peugeot 306, not sure how economical they are though.

[@jimcrichton8028]

Suzuki swift 1.2 2015 model. fine if only 1person in it. sips fuel, comfy and always works. I love mine, keep my classic cars for sunny summer days

[@UPnDOWN]

I do like those Swifts.

[@robinvanags912]

I've had my 2003 Volkswagen Polo 1.2 (with 3-cylinder engine) for 16 years as my only car. 'Polo Number Five', has been as sound and solid as the four that went before - tax perhaps high for the size of engine, IMHO. But if you want 'big-car' solidity and driving qualities in a compact, economical package.....

[@grabham59]

I too was coming to recommend a type 9n Polo. I've had 3 of them. Downsides - suspension bushes - I've had to replace them on all 3. God knows what VW are making them out of. Pluses, not a Ford so nowhere near the rust issues, definite hoonability, plus with the seats down - the useable load space is remarkable for such a relatively small car. The 1.4 is actually 1390cc - so comes in under that tax bracket....

[@UPnDOWN]

Switch to poly bushes (from a decent brand). Modern rubber is awful, and poly doesn't negatively affect the ride like people make out.

[@fulminatorc6]

You can fit a low level coolant sensor and activate the warning from Diagbox, there is tutorial to it. We have it installed on ours.. Only issue that the sensor has to be either from Aliexpress or SH. And the sensors were not the most reliable ones, but at least it's there :D Also it would be important to change ALL the coolant pipes, as if one breaks due to old age, pretty much the others will break, for the same reason. While this is logical, for some reason it didn't occured to me, until somebody pointed out. Some break because they are plastic(durawhatever) and others are metal and rust... Until I can pay for it, I am not giving up on mine :D

[@UPnDOWN]

Yeah, I've got a new bottle and a used OE sensor from a C5, just haven't done it yet because I'm still flushing the cooling system before it goes waterless. As for the pipes, I agree, but that starts getting costly.

[@fredgien]

I have driven mine in the Netherlands since 2014 and i have spend thousends of euro’s on her…..but i truly love the C6! And i will keep her as long as i can….

[@fulminatorc6]

@@UPnDOWN you don't have a C6 because it's cheap, easy or reliable ☺️ you have one, because you are officially crazy. And since you have an SM too, you are more than a normal official crazy 😂 like crazy on steroids

[@michaelheimbrand5424]

As much as I love my DS, XM, BX´s, and hate all new rubbish, I got a Volvo 240 eight years ago. It´s brilliant. And it´s a 1990 so it gets really good mileage. I can relate to your situation. Maybe give an old 240 a try? If not totally destroyed they are actually pretty nice to drive. I´m still the biggest LHM junkie ever, but the 240 is a friend for life. It lets my brain relax. It kinda has my back. Just a thought...

[@UPnDOWN]

Nothing going to be frugal though? Probably not much better than the C6, if it all? Tax would be cheaper, but not hugely cheap (unless it was over 40yrs old!)

[@michaelheimbrand5424]

@@UPnDOWN Aha, so it´s 40 years in the UK... It´s 30 in Sweden. My 1990 Volvo 245 doesn´t pay tax and I´m doing 7.5L/100Km. Rust-wise, Volvo were really bad before 1989-90. And a 40yo Volvo will not be frugal at all. They need the B230F engine with LH 2.4 Jetronic and a manual gearbox to be good. I think that engine came in 1989. I still think it´s worth looking at. It´s always nice to know something good and simple got your back when all the other cars is wanting your attention. It has (kinda) worked as a way for me to stay sane.

[@smhorse]

I took the CX out on her Sunday run to the stables and, as I floated along, I counted myself lucky I don’t have a C6. For all the annoying and occasionally expensive problems that the CX is capable of, there aren't loads of electronic circuits or plastic parts in critical areas that could lead to a FTP. Instead there's miles of small bore pipes containing very high pressure.... Cheap, interesting 3-cylinder? How about a Wartburg 353?

[@UPnDOWN]

To be fair, the electrics in the C6 have been fine! It's been solid when called upon (the fact it did the trip to France and back with that broken pipe surely deserves respect, as well as having the coolant run so low the heater stopped blowing hot...and yet it survives, unharmed!

[@adrianbrennan443]

I have had my C6 2.2 for nearly ten years recently failed its MOT with leaking hydraulic pipe on nearside strut. New pipe from Citroen will take 6 to 8 weeks for delivery and cost to supply and fit £821.00 it also needs tax £330.00 and service. I have decide to take it off the road for now and use my Dacia Duster 1.2 turbo petrol for the winter. I understand your situation.

[@dortkommendieclowns1474]

Get one made 😉

[@jamesleeharris]

Great video as always. I was in a similar dilemma years ago. It can be a challenging desicion choosing whether to jump ship or not. How about a xantia estate? Just happens there's one near me that need to be recommissioned. Keep it up rich looking forward to the live stream.

[@UPnDOWN]

Can't be dealing with another project tbf.

[@jamesleeharris]

@@UPnDOWN fair point, I've seen a guy on KZbin who bought a £4k sm from America. Now that guy has a project in his hands. Keep it up rich , love your work bud.

[@HubNut]

Diesel sucks. Buy a Ford AU Fairmont instead.

[@UPnDOWN]

And convert it to diesel?

[@Biggles]

You protest, but you need a Citroen C1! I know the 107 and Aygo are the same, but you need the one with the Citroen badge. Buy one cheap with a broken clutch. Parts are peanuts, they are easy to work on. Just don't buy a rotten one and seal up all the bits where they let rain in. Some of them have velour-ish seats to boot. Seriously one of these will save you so much cash!

[@UPnDOWN]

I'd want the Toyota-badged one, as it is more a Toyota than a Cit or Pug. They also look the best of the three IMO.

[@jugostran]

Just get one of the later BXs with a velour interior. I use one (albeit with a tweed interior) as a daily. It's a 16 TRS from '89. Not sure what the costs are like in the UK, but I pay chips for insurance and tax, the parts can be sourced from a junkyard and it sips fuel. Quite a decent comfortable daily driver.

[@UPnDOWN]

I've got two BXs already, they're a bit old for daily use, for me.

[@jugostran]

@@UPnDOWN I can understand. They are definitely showing their age in some aspects. I know some had AC, but those are quite rare (and usually use the older freon making refills tricky). Also, mine is a bit...how should I say...well loved. By that I mean that nobody serviced the damn thing properly for the better part of 20 years. Currently the idle is too low, somethings up with the HP pump and I think it may be running rich (there is lots of liquid coming out of the tailpipe and the fuel usage can be erratic). However, even with all its faults, it is still an excellent car and we love it very much :D And, good luck finding a decent daily driver!

[@alangroves5616]

You haven’t stated any preferences so what about one of the Suzuki swift variants, as allegedly a good car to drive and very likely to be reliable and cheap to run. Could also be placed in the “not your normal run of the mill” town car?

[@UPnDOWN]

I do like them.

[@steveelkins52]

It's lovely, SORN it for the winter, you will probably always regret selling it (unless someone sees the vid and makes an offer..)

[@74HC04]

At the risk of teaching my grandmother to suck eggs, I am a bit of a C107GO obsessesive, so if you do go down this route, the following apply (based on MK1, 1KR-FE petrol only, since they are the ones I know best): - Clutches, rainwater leaks, gummed up oil control rings, piston slap (usually only an annoyance) and weeping/leaking water pumps are your main concerns. - The Phase 1 cars are the nicest to drive in my opinion, but are 'only' EURO 4 complaint. - Phase 2 and Phase 3 are EURO 5A, the latter being free VED, as opposed to £20 a year, last time I checked. I believe the main difference is in the mapping. Not related but I also believe the later 1KR-FE got oil spray jets under the pistons. - I've driven plenty but have only owned a phase 1 and a phase 2 car. Personally, I didn't get on with the phase 3 as it felt "flat spotted" at various points in the range (had one as a courtesy car for a couple of months whilst my phase 1 was in for body work and didn't like it). I know you're not particularly interested in owning one, buy if you go down this route, I'd be happy to advise further :-). Again, grandmother, eggs, I am not a mechanic, etc etc. :-D

[@74HC04]

@@dizzy2020 Yes, I find the seats cause me back pain after any journey longer than 1.5 hours and the suspension tends to bottom out with adults in the rear seats. The ride's fine for me (althought a little on the firm side and potholes make me cringe) and I suppose the road noise can be excessive on a long journey. There was a time when you could pick one up new for £6,000 so I suppose you get what you pay for, but that switch, a bit of wire and a connector always did seem a bit of a step too far! It also seems a bit silly to have to pay more for the 60/40 split rear seat but the C107GO isn't unique in this trait. E.g. the Picanto '1' trim has a one-piece bench too, IIRC. Take it for what it is, cheap and cheerful, warm the engine through and rev the nuts off of it and it'll give you a grin or two. e.g. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJ-mnZyDa797d7c

[@74HC04]

I intend to teach my wife to drive in our K11 Micra. The C1's clutch is a bit 'fussy' for a learner, or that's my excuse (high bite, and stuff-all torque off the line). Truth is, my C1 is now a 'garage queen', sheltering from the rain and salt in the garage, waiting for sunny days to come! :-D

[@UPnDOWN]

Thanks for the info!

[@Angry-Lynx]

The fact that u have driving c6 for that money is insane! With that u lost any right to complain about it 😊😂

[@nocibomber]

Hi there, just watched this video where at the end you mentioned that you liked the idea of a 3 cylinder. Just a sugestion but I have just swapped my old Renault 5 for a 2001 Suzuki Swift. It's comfy and rides okay and is very cheap to run. Reliable but then mine's done less that 10k miles, maybe not the best for making "fixing" videos? Anyway, just an idea. Keep up the good work, oh and I'll subscribe so it doesn't take 5 months to see your filmage.

[@UPnDOWN]

I quite like those Swifts actually.

[@grayfool]

Every car is a compromise. When my wife retired and stopped doing the stupid amount of mileage she drove when working we considered getting rid of the LS400. We bought it for it's comfort and ease of driving and she was paid expenses whe it was used for work. We thought of many things to replace it but, in the end, decided to stick with it as we both loved it, it didn't cost much 'cause we weren't doing the miles any more and we didn't owe any money on it. And what do you replace such a bloody good car with anyway? I know that doesn't help you one little bit, just saying, I feel your pain.

[@chrispenn715]

Smart roadster? Suzuki Cappuccino if you dont like tea 🙂

[@ashliehiggins]

Try 3 pot DS3, you can get it with Alcantara which is sort of velour like. but a bit too new.

[@UPnDOWN]

Yeah, bit new for me. I'm talking budget motoring!

[@Thanos.m]

I had a late Rover 45 connoisseur TDi cheap tax it was very comfortable had all the basics like auto climate and heated seats etc and it did 55mpg in town over 60 on a run and never gave me any grief but its definitely not as majestic as a C6

[@UPnDOWN]

They're actually good cars, though. I sold Rovers (briefly - it ended badly, maybe I'll cover it the 24hr live stream) and the 45 2.0TD Connoisseur was one of the cars I remember being much better than I thought it would be.

[@carlmichael5592]

I would have thought you couldn't go wrong with a 2001 - 2005 Clio, plenty around, fairly cheap, not too complex and most importantly comfortable with velour interior (the Privilege spec anyway).

[@ferventheat]

Cracking cars, I loved my dci, but not the sunroof leaks.

[@Toby_the_Glen]

Clio sunroof have always leaked. Even since mk1?

[@johnolszowy8663]

K11 micra bro

[@thedeadstig123]

Best 3 cylinder car I owned was a late model Subaru Justy and a Perodua For under 2k you could get a really nice one of either or if you fancy a slightly sporty but cheap to run car look at the Perodua Myvi sport

[@squeakers27]

C6 not having a coolent level sensor surprises me. I get pestered with a flashing stop light, beeping, low coolent message and light from my 206 each time I park it half on the kerb opposite my house because the coolent level is at an angle the car doesn't like until you get off the kerb and drive off and it goes away.

[@UPnDOWN]

I was going to do a video about it, but they did, originally. PSA stopped fitting them because coolant was seeping up through the sensor through capillary action and along the wiring! It would get to the ECU and ruin it, as well as throwing up numerous false low-level coolant warnings. They can be retrofitted, at least.

[@GlamStacheessnostalgialounge]

Shame about the C6 but it is what it is. The prices for everything is ridiculous nowdays. Funny thing is how my father is just obsessed with running costs and bought a 1.5 Turbo Diesel Opel Crossland last year, brand new. And right now it's MORE expensive to run than my old raggedy 306 with the TU3, Gets me about 45 MPG on average. I'd recommend you an old base model Peugeot, either 205, 106, 309 or 306. Got velour interiors, comfortable, cheap to run and fun to bomb around in (Admittedly not a 1.4 litre 306, it's painfully slow)

[@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain]

I had the same issue with my Rover 75 alongside other problems was the price of diesel and road tax it was costing me far too much to run was looking at £100 a tank for derv and the repairs were costing too much as well. I went to Sheffield and filled up before heading to Edinburgh thinking £50 for half a tank... Nope not even half a tank. So its nice to have the Cactus 42mpg say £75 a month for fuel and £20 quid a year tax, ok it's only 82bhp 1.2 but I love it Hubnut ethos Power less is more. Plus I also like the Poverty spec of the Cactus no rev counter, 3 cylinder engine note, steel wheels (I have alloys for the summer) Ever considered a mark 1 Fabia vRS?? Prob as much fun as the Saxo and the tuning options are endless, I had one and was kicking out 170bhp! And was still getting something like 56mpg!

[@UPnDOWN]

I don't mind the Fabia VRS, though doesn't especially jump out at me.

[@jamesmiller6977]

Buy yourself a 3 cylinder 998cc Kia Picanto as a commuter car for yourself. I bought a 2011, 40,000 mile, specimen for £3,999 as my retirement car, and it's fantastic, both to drive and work on mechanically. The Hyundai i10 is basically the same car with a different body.

[@NerdInMotion23]

I have a C4 Coupe VTS 2.0 16V petrol and it's just as mental as a C6 but will return 35 mpg with no problem as it's so light.

[@UPnDOWN]

I had a VTS 180 before the C6 (covered in the first C6 video) and I can assure you, it's not close to a C6 in terms of mentalness! Wouldn't say 1320kg is all that light either, in fairness. Don't get me wrong, I really liked it, but it was what it was...a Peugeot 307 in a pretty dress with a slightly underpowered engine (though the engine itself was pretty good)

[@NerdInMotion23]

@@UPnDOWN Ok I admit it's not as mental as a C6 but it isn't a Golf and it doesn't weigh as much. The guy I bought my C4 off had an absolutely mint C6 and loves it. I think it's a cool car. Could you not mothball it and run a funny crap box for a while. (Honda Jazz🤣🤣)

[@MrLekatt]

I also absolutely love the C6 but just can't afford to run it. I'm now on my second C4 1.6 Hdi Coupé Mark 1, which I also like very much. It's a good looking car and still turn some heads, guess they remember the Loeb era. To my knowledge there is only one concern - the injectors or rather the studs holding them down, they tend to leak engine oil.. yes, engine oil, not diesel. It seeps up through the threads (in the head), presumably because of crankcase pressure. There are a few good ways to stop it from leaking but the injectors have to come out and the studs should be replaced as well as the copper washer/seal for the injectors. Once done they will last another 150000 miles at least. Otherwise it's a cheap (to buy) and reliable car in my opinion. Easy upgradeable to 130 hp...

[@jeremytaylor4458]

C4 Coupe looks a bit like a C6 that’s shrunk in the wash. I enjoyed mine (1.6 HDI)

[@MrLekatt]

Revealing lines, absolutely and with the same Cd as the Porsche 911...

[@MrManBuzz]

I've always admired the C4 by Loeb. The normal C4 I was meh about but something about the red and white wheels really suited it.

[@MrLekatt]

@@MrManBuzz I completely agree, a great combination complimenting the style of the body. I had to settle for 'Rouge Lucifer Nacre', but I'm happy with that ;)

[@UPnDOWN]

I had a VTS 180 Coupe before I got the C6. Quite liked it.

[@paultaylor9652]

Peugeot 3 cylinder drum like anything, I've just got rid of my 308 it was that bad at cold and at slow speeds, it was very efficient though for a 1.2 turbo I use to get 60 mpg on the motorway.

[@UPnDOWN]

I like drums.

[@peterriggall8409]

These are many of the reasons why so many C6s have bit the dust I guess. Sad but understand it should go. 😕 Diesel more expensive ATM in Australia too. Why? It’s madness. Maybe an Xantia….if you can find a good one. Cheap as chips.

[@UPnDOWN]

I can find two Xantias, though neither are sensible dailies! Not cheap enough to run, either.

[@torresalex]

Citroen C3s (2nd and 3rd gens, 1st gens are ugly) are really good. 1.2 pure tech (avoid the 1. 2vti) is a great 3 cylinder that can be really economical.

[@hestjensen3876]

Here in Denmark the annual road tax, or green tax as we call it, is 1.500 pound sterling with the 2.7 diesel. I didnt see a C6 for a very long time. I always liked Citroen and my first car was a rusty CX 2400 Pallas in, more or less, the same color as Clements original color. The new boxy Citroens are not real Citroens to me so today I drive a 2020 Volvo V60. The Volvo is "only" 500 pounds in annual tax. Cheers from Denmark.

[@fonziebulldog5786]

Maybe thats why newer Citroens dont brake down any longer that the old ones did.😄

[@hestjensen3876]

@@fonziebulldog5786 I do not agree. I have had 2 CX, 1 BX, 1 Xsara, 2 Grand Picasso, 1 C5 and 1 C5 III. The Xara was the most unreliable even if I bought it from new, the 2 Grand Picasso had technical issues every second month, gearbox failures etc. The most reliable was the CX GTI and the BX. Minimum maintenance but extremely stabile during the years. Cheers.

[@fonziebulldog5786]

@@hestjensen3876 Well, when the fuel prices took of to the roof over a year ago i sold a troublesome Volvo XC 90 T filled with electronic problems and bought a Citroen C4 second generation and it just runs and runs without any faults. I will probably get another Citroen after this one for sure. Take care. 👍

[@mikpiece469]

I had the same but still a different problem ( and know nothing about UK tax) but I had a 530d which I loved - but I got a job 160km away from my home. The km was great im the BM but the value of it decreased so fast + repairs so I also had to think another way. I ended up with an older Saab. Value already zero, tax pretty decent.. never any problems and it run great for what it was. i would suggest a saab (which is cheap) or a Toyota (which is boring) but it from a dealer and give the C6 in exchange... (You have now tried to have it)

[@UPnDOWN]

I don't really buy cars from dealers often, and I've never actually traded a car in before!

[@stewartmcnaughton3395]

You're a jinx, you are. I watched this video a couple of days ago and yesterday my degassing pipe - the other of the two that lead to the expansion tank blew. Exactly the same problem. Old, brittle plastic end connection that snapped at its weakest point, where the o-ring resides, which is the point where the plastic is thinnest. I'll be replacing all of these types of fittings/pipes/hoses shortly. My C6 is begging to resemble Triggers broom.

[@UPnDOWN]

I expect mine will fail soon, too.

[@MrManBuzz]

How about a Renaultsport Twingo? I had one for 18 months and loved it for what it was. Engine was very happy to rev and give everything it had all day long, and it handled like not much else I've driven (it's setup from factory to have some liftoff oversteer if you want it, roundabouts were a lot of fun) And if you drove it sensibly, 40MPG was achievable without doing any drastic. Or if the Twingo RS is too expensive/thirsty, you could get the Twingo GT with a 1.2 Turbo. Or how about a Citroën C2 VTS? I don't think I've heard your opinion on the C2s. Maybe there's a reason for that 😅

[@UPnDOWN]

I'm not *mad* on the C2, purely because the Saxo is so, so much better to drive. Don't dislike them as such, but can never get excited about them. They feel VERY cheap inside, too. Quite like the Twingos.

[@MrManBuzz]

@@UPnDOWN The Twingo RS is a great little shout if I do say so myself. I bought a mint 2012 one for £3250 5 years ago, brought it back to Ireland, must've been only one of a handful in the country because they weren't officially sold here. Unless they're out of budget, I'd really recommend one. If you do get one, buy one with the cup package though.

[@MattBrownbill]

I use a magnetic charging plug on my phone, so it stays in the socket all the time, and the lead just attaches to the plug when charging. The only problem is steel shavings when grinding get attracted to it!

[@UPnDOWN]

That would be a huge problem for me!

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

Try an A2 TDi. I did, I liked it and I went from a 3 cylinder UP! Gti to a 3 cylinder A2 in a smooth, beneficial transition (ride and quality wise).

[@UPnDOWN]

So go for something much harder riding before an A2, and the A2 will seem good? But I'm going from a C6! lol

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

@@UPnDOWN Yes, the ride was terrible on the UP! The A2 wasn't great either initially. I have moved from the standard SE 16" wheels to 15" Audi pepperpots and it's fine now.

[@markbessey9991]

You could always try tempt hubnut Ian with buying the c6 from you 🤣

[@UPnDOWN]

Ha! I don't think it would last long with Ian!

[@drummondscar3264]

I'd a C6, bought it at 2 years old and 18000 miles, from a Citroen dealer, for £16000. I got rid of it at 70000 miles, and it's still going- last MOT was a few days ago, at 135000. And the MOT history shows a pass each time, with no advisories. Not bad for a 14 year old car.....

[@UPnDOWN]

They're nowhere near as bad as people make out, just expensive to run (as would be a 6-cyl BMW, Merc or Audi of equivilent size/mass etc)

[@jackscott8931]

Cheap to run, comfortable, velour...... Ford Fiesta Mk4 Ghia?

[@jmurray01]

I was just thinking that. My mother had a P-reg one with the 1.25 Zetec engine from 2008 until 2014 when the welding bill for the MOT was no longer deemed to be viable. It did get welded by the next owner and MOTd once then promptly written off 😢 Not sure what the purpose of my story was, other than to say they are indeed great little cars and with velour upholstery and a fake walnut dash you don't feel hard done by. But finding one that isn't totally rotten wouldn't be easy.

[@UPnDOWN]

It's a good shout. I'd prefer the mk5 facelift, though. Mk4's a horrible-looking thing.

[@Jookboxhero]

I have the poverty spec mk 4.5 ( facelift) fiesta flight 1.3 as my commuter car, no velour sadly. Amazing reliability and handling. Family bus Xsara picasso 1.6 16v Petrol (velour). Sills fully sorted, Recommend both cars although both are plodder, ie not very quick either of them.

[@markritchie3584]

Vauxhall astras use the same connectors with the same failure point but at a much greater expense.

[@Ian-ij4of]

I've got a 2.7td Exclusive, I wonder if your water pump is on its way out, as you know its driven from the serpentine belt. New quality OE spec is 50 quid plus 12 quid for the belt if uou need it...personally I'd keep your C6...

[@DeGlennen]

I would consider a Peugeot 205 / 309 / 106 / 306 / Citroen AX / Citroen C2 or a lower engine Saxo. I my Focus mk3 were to die, I'd daily my old 205 1.1 (which I own as hobby classic)

[@markallison5899]

Try driving a VW Up/ Skoda Citigo . Great three cylinder with good ride. I get 53 mpg round town.

[@UPnDOWN]

I've heard good things about them.

[@sfjoos]

What is the easiest way to refit a original coolant level sensor? Is the wiring already prepared and how does the BSI manage it?

[@UPnDOWN]

You have to add the wiring and activate it in the BSI.

[@oojimmyflip]

have you considered looking into mobile broadband ? i bought a Huawei mobile router and an omni directional external aerial after a lot of youtube research and Im getting unlimited broadband no throttling with a 3 network sim at £18 a month download speeds 70 to 90 mbps and upload speeds of 15 to 20 mpbs and some unlocked mobile routers can have a phone attached at no extra cost for calls to landlines. the beauty of it is you are not locked into any contract you can simply change your sim card for another network any time you please. If you add a cheap Tenda Mesh system you can expand your wireless almost anywhere on your property with no blind spots.

[@RustyRoseAdventures]

You need a VW Lupo! 🤣 3 cylinder diesel👍

[@oojimmyflip]

sounds like you need to find a 2.0 litre Citroen Xantia dirt cheap to run especially a diesel one reasonably comfortable easy to park older suspension technology easy to make suspension pipes for unlike the LDS system other than that the engines go and go they are virtually bomb proof. my 1998 2.0 litre diesel estate was 18 years old when I let it go it had 301k on the clock and for the last 7 years of its life it ran on recycled old veg oil. only 90 BHP but it went like a steam train.

[@robtminnican]

Me and my partner got rid of her financed car because it was alot of money to sit there and do nothing because of lockdown and her working from home, then a mate wanted rid of a 1.2 polo so that he could get house renovations done cos it was in the way he only wanted £150 for it few bits for the mot had a cheap runaround mrs loves it cos of its character, parts are cheap and its easy to fix, and keeps passing mots ha, sometimes the best cars are the cheaper ones

[@michaelwright2986]

I don't know what the UK market is like, but here in NZ the early Nissan Leafs are about NZD6000 up (GBP3000) Only about 50 miles range, but for the usage that is bad for the C6, that range is just fine, and for use for commuting you could charge it during the day. I have a little Note with the same electric motor, and it encourages me to be very immature, in a quiet way, at traffic lights. I bet the "tax" is low, too. You might be able to keep the C6 as a pet, and for the odd long trip? Plus, you could write it down to getting in on the new tech. At some point, someone's going to want to put a Tesla motor in a TVR (or, more usefully, an old Iveco). Also, do you have to pay that much for a phone? I tend to buy phones outright, second-hand, on the local auction site; there's always a few people who HAVE to change their phone every year or two, so there are good ones around. And the local big mobile company has a cut rate pre-pay deal which suits me fine for ~GBP10 a month, though I don't use the phone much, so it cost more for a business user. It's branded differently, and they're obviously selling off cheap the capacity they can't sell at full price, so it's very no frills--but they also get higher customer satisfaction ratings than the full price company. Telecoms are prime examples of the way a modern company treats its customers as prey, so there's a certain satisfaction in minimising my contact with them.

[@UPnDOWN]

Probably worth a bit more over here, though I haven't looked. I'm happy with ICE but I need to be more sensible about daily costs. And yes, that usage isn't doing the C6 any favours. As for the phone, brand new you're talking £500+ for something average. Years of having a semi-decent phone (I don't go crazy) regards camera etc. mean if you go backwards in tech to a 2nd hand handset or whatever, it irks me when it's just that little bit duller on the screen, and takes that little bit longer to do stuff, and the battery life goes off a cliff. I don't mind making the phone one of my higher-cost expenses as I use it a lot. I spend much more on cars I never drive!

[@michaelwright2986]

@@UPnDOWN I'm not trying to persuade you, of course (wouldn't work, anyway), but just so you know that you can get out from under the Telecoms Monsters at least a little bit: I had a quick squiz on eBay and in the UK Galaxy S21s are going for about GBP500. Never had a Samsung myself, but they're not average: that's the trick about buying your own phone, getting a 2 year old flagship. In case you hadn't found this out yet, you do have to be careful buying stuff second-hand, but some of those handsets will be in better condition than anything that's been in a workshop for a month. Same will go for the really good phones that are a bit less, shall we say "premium", when new. Anyhow, I hope you come to a resolution about the C6, but for a daily commuter I must say it only seems a little more practical than a Rolls Royce. Now there's a thought.

[@TheSoupdragon1968]

Just an idea, fix the DS get it converted to LPG... Cheep to run no tax or mot. The best suspension ever comfortable seats from long term memory as in 45 years..... It's not something you see on every corner.... Oh I have an A2, 1.4 TDI 75 hp. Very practical, it's narrow but ok. Yes you can get 4 people in it... The boot is actually quite big. It's more than fast enough.... Has amazing air conditioning, they need good tyres as they weigh so little it's hard to stop .. yes I did have a little knock because of lack of grip. My Saab 93 diesel convertible would of stopped no issues.... The only thing with the A2 it has a very small fuel tank..... Yes it's economic 45 mpg + but I swear it has a ten ltr paint tub for a fuel tank ....

[@UPnDOWN]

The costs to convert it, though...? Like the sound of the A2 TDI.

[@mannine99]

life is about choices, C6 has its price, C1 is cheaper to run than C6, bicycle is cheaper to run than C1

[@hazzalandy]

It's like Discovery 3s. I love em, but half the problems you're likely to have are body off jobs, and they cost their value a month to run. Still, I am actively looking for one...

[@steveboatronics]

Did you order from Jim, at Yeoman’s? 😬 Very helpful chap! Btw: been there, done that, with those pipes… 🤪 I hope you’ve also replaced the ‘stat housing! If not, it’s waiting to bite you in the arse. I have a spare one if you want it, along with some other cooling system parts.

[@UPnDOWN]

I gave up with them quite a long time ago. Service side were OK, though. It's had a stat housing in the past, but I'm not sure if it's leaking again. One of my jobs is to find out.

[@steveboatronics]

@@UPnDOWN: In the middle of the vee there’s just the ‘stat housing (coolant output tank!) and the diesel fuel heat-exchanger that are cooling system related. Could be a failing O-ring or, of course, a weeping hose where it attaches to one of the spigots; but IME it’s always been the former: the housing starting to split open. Be verrrry careful in there, with the fuel return pipes that attach to each injector; and the swirl valves’ rubber tubes that attach to tiny plastic spigots. They all get very brittle and can break off so easily… 😳

[@TheBMW1200gsa]

Mark 5 Ford Fiesta 1.4 tdci in Ghia trim hits all your criteria. The Ghia has velour seats, £30 per year tax and upto 70to the gallon.

[@UPnDOWN]

That's the mk6, isn't it? Mk5 had the 1.8TDdi engine (I had one years ago, briefly).