SHOULD You REALLY Buy A CITROEN AMI? My 5000 Mile/8000KM Review, 18 Months On.

[@michal_pasek]

I have my Ami since two weeks, 1000km made and it makes so much fun to drive! Even as a Tesla owner 😅

[@MeandMonAmi]

Brilliant what fun to have both!

[@michal_pasek]

Tesla for the Family with kids, Ami just for one big kid 😂 But my wife steals my ami in the mornings and drives it to her job instead of taking her petrol car. For daily commute Ami is just perfect, especially in the city.

[@MeandMonAmi]

@@michal_pasek Yup and for narrow mountain villages;

[@billmoore7137]

If you get kicks from driving at 30mph then you need to give your head a shake ffs

[@Dwainpipe21]

​@@billmoore7137If you get your kicks from driving your conventional car at less than 30 around town then you need to give your head a wobble .

[@avidviewer1]

I honestly think this is one of the best car reviews I've ever seen (and I watch plenty of them). Also, you guys are absolutely terrific! It's great that Elton's given you so much pleasure but, believe me, sharing your adventures with such generosity has brought so much joy into my life, and I'll never be able to thank you enough 😀🤣🥰

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks I’m so glad you are enjoying and that you’ve taken the time to comment.

[@alunhoskins4513]

I’m ‘considering’ one - if it eventually gets here in rural, hilly Ireland, well my bit anyway - to replace my 1970 FIAT 500. 499cc of air-cooled, slow entertainment. A local, fun runaround. My main car being a Citroën C3 Aircross. I had an original, tatty Ami estate back in Sussex in 1978…. Loved it! Love your video’s too. (I'm nearly 66 now - 'speed' days gone. :-)

[@MeandMonAmi]

I think you’d have fun but as I say in the video you have to go in eyes wide open, which it sounds like you would. So nice to hear from you and that you are enjoying the channel.

[@AliWade1971]

Great review. Elton has brought a lot of us joy. Without him this channel would be very different, and I wouldn’t have a t-shirt, bag, mug and key rings 😀. I think I will own an Ami one day. My Smart EQ ForTwo suits me better right now - I have to drive longer distances in our very rural area, and often on fast roads. I was lucky enough to drive the first Ami in the UK, and it reminded me of when I first had a Smart in 2001. Everyone was smiling and waving, and I just laughed the whole time 😂

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks for all your support Ali its much appreciated.

[@J500ANT]

Best thing about your Ami is that it's introduced you to us, and I've really enjoyed this window on your lives and your lovely locale. You should be paid by the local tourist board 😊

[@jjbiggmann5576]

WELL SAID....THEY ARE GREAT.

[@MeandMonAmi]

That’s so nice to hear.

[@MeandMonAmi]

We should but we ain’t!

[@LifeinLancashire]

Wow......the 18 months have certainly flown by. A great review 👍. Years ago back in the 80s, we were skint with 2 young children. We needed a car to replace our clapped out one, and decided to buy a Lada. As you probably know, the Lada was a cheap car and it's design totally ridiculed, but like the Ami, it served it's purpose in transporting us around. Any mode of transport has pros and cons, so as you stated, best to do your research before purchasing.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Doesn’t time fly…

[@Rob1964b]

Great video Tim. Good to know Elton still going strong + It's been driven mostly with two people + dog in it. + luggage + several action cams attached. - So not just a flimsy little plastic car that's gonna fall apart after 5 minutes.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Ours has proven remarkably resilient (so far!

[@nickwebb9290]

That really was a superb review Tim covering all areas of ownership and importantly being brutally honest. You have both been good ambassadors for the Citroen Ami and probably helped to sell a few too 😉 I would say you’ve become quite attached to your little Elton

[@MeandMonAmi]

I think we have!

[@The_Great_Roberto]

Love your review, I have found everything you say on this to be true in my case as well. I have had mine since the 5th of January, done nearly 2000 miles, and have enjoyed every minute of the snow, ice, rain and sunshine. It takes all the boxes I required, and put a smile on everybody’s face!! Also rainX anti fog on the inside windows works very well. Keep up the good work!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Robert. Yup rain x helps but I’ve never quite totally solved it

[@AndrewKNI]

Congratulations guys. 5,000 miles of experiences, fun and entertainment. Great value for money too. Roll on the next 5,000 miles 🙂

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Andrew

[@HenkModderman]

Well that is quite clear, you are really very satisfied with your Citroën AMI just like I am with my Opel Rocks Electric. I haven't had it as long as you, but I'm very pleased with it! It has become a really nice review, thank you!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Henk glad you are liking

[@prieten49]

That was a positive review. Keep the good times rolling...

[@NormanF62]

Good review! Not for everyone but for those who can accept its limitations and the intended purpose of the Ami, it might just bring joy and light to your life.

[@700yearsonearth]

what a clean comment, absolutely agree 100%

[@MeandMonAmi]

Absolutely.

[@simonevans8979]

Would it be better to take - and pass- a test? That's the question I would like an answer to... A huge number of vehicles then enter the equation, with none of the limitations.

[@MeandMonAmi]

@@simonevans8979 Possibly but I’d have never got round to it whereas now I could probably pass

[@darenkent6987]

Another midweek video ❤ I’ve had my Ami Tonic for 4 weeks and have covered 150 miles and just love it. Your right it’s the most looked at vehicle and I think we will see many more. Great videos 👍👍❤️

[@MeandMonAmi]

So glad you love it. We love ours and went filming to a pretty remote village of 950 inhabitants today and saw two others there!

[@RenanGarciaBorges]

this was by far the best review that I saw about this car, thank you it really helped me

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks very much, Did you buy?

[@alannorman6166]

A very balanced view on a vehicle which was designed as an affordable mode of transport and is of course not a car as we know having owned an old 2 cv many years ago cheap to run and paid peanuts for it do get a bit peeved when I see some of the silly comments on build quality it is what it is

[@MeandMonAmi]

Exactly I’ve always felt the 2cv and the ami are related

[@OldCarsNewVan]

I think if you live in France without a driving licence it makes perfect sense. In the UK, where you need a car licence - less compelling.

[@BikingChap]

I think it depends on what you want to use it for. Strictly around the 30mph towns / cities it makes perfect sense.

[@OldCarsNewVan]

I know what you’re saying - I just think it’s party piece is to allow French non licence holders to drive it. Here in the UK, standard car licence which is a real shame.

[@BikingChap]

@@OldCarsNewVan sure, fair point, wouldn’t it be amazing if we could get kids in these from say 16 instead of mopeds? 👍

[@MeandMonAmi]

I think it is a shame you need a full licence in UK

[@BikingChap]

@@MeandMonAmi absolutely but I can’t see it changing anytime soon in the U.K. the Daily Mail would go mad! Kids in cars! Argh!

[@danielrichards8472]

To stop the windows steaming up rub shaving cream into the glass then wipe it off it sounds crazy but it works!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Helps, but sadly doesn’t prevent totally. Similarly Rain X etc

[@andynightingale7335]

That was really interesting Tim. I do wonder how an Ami would cope with hilly Sheffield in the freezing winter. Like you say, don't expect it to be supercar and enjoy it for what it is. You certainly can't complain at those running costs! Anyway, love the channel and so glad I discovered you a few months ago, hope to see lots more content chaps. 🐶

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Andy. It would go up them but slowly and you might need a coat. Glad you are enjoying.

[@jonross545]

Oh for Sheffield in the snow!Can’t say I miss it!!!! Greeting from a Brit Yorkshire immigrant living in Charente Maritime,South West France.👍🍷🇫🇷🇪🇺

[@andynightingale7335]

@Jon Ross sounds wonderful, Jon.

[@jonross545]

@@andynightingale7335 highly recommend if anyone is able to make the move

[@andynightingale7335]

@Jon Ross if I bring my tent, yorkshire puddings and some Henderson's Relish is that a deal then? 😆

[@jackoneil3933]

Thanks Time for the thoughtful and thorough recap, much appreciated, I for those with only time enough for the 'full-meal' review, your summary from 18:00 seems to cover the last 18 months quite well. At 9:00 and in regards to extension cables, at 220v and about 2000 watts of charge, you are only going to need about 9amps of current, so a 50ft (15m), #14 wire gauge extension cord should only lose about 3volts and 30watts energy. I'd probably suggest using at least #14 (smaller numbers are larger wire) and not #16 or #18 extension cable. In regards to the Hell's Angels and Quentin Crisp's take, the Hell's Angels used to have their national reunion at a Rodeo in 'Angels Camp' California my father used to help produce and MC, and along with several of his cowboy buddies ended up picking a fight with Sonny Barger, the most infamous "Big Daddy" of the Hell's Angels and the leaders of the gang. 'The Angels' got the worst of the thumping and and spent a night in jail, while the cowboys were heroes in the eyes of the police and locals. But the next day after bailing out of Jail Sunny and his leaders, after the Rodeo came back to the rodeo and offered a hand of friendship, and my father and other cowboys honorary life-time memberships in the Hell's Angels. My father accepted the offer and apologized sucker-punching Sunny, to which Sunny replied "I'm a lover not a fighter". Over the years Sunny and my father became friends and, from what I recall of the Hell's Angels of the time, they were more a society of rebels and misfits with a sense justice, than thuggish criminals, and I enjoyed your brief homage.

[@alantsneddon]

Lovely honest review. I ditched my ICE car 2 years ago and bought an e-bike. My daily work commute is 4 miles each way on mostly cycle lanes. Even in winter in Scotland, I’ve managed just fine. Some decent waterproof and warm clothing and it’s no problem. For longer trips, I take the bike on the train. If I ever needed a car, and so far I haven’t, I can just hire one. I have two large panniers on the rear rack that easily fits 2 big shopping bags for the weekly grocery shop. It is definitely possible to live without a large car, it just depends on your personal circumstances. No road tax, no high fuel costs, no expensive annual servicing and replacing parts, no expensive insurance, and yes you can save plenty of money.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Yup I’ve had e bikes twenty years and still ride one. They are massive here

[@laurenceellis8311]

Fabulous overview, and I've been a week looking through videos here in Ireland...what I can say after talking to the main agent here in Ennis, the amount of interest and anticipation surrounding this vehicle is unprecedented, the agents are taking names for test drives of the first Ami into the county...I'm hooked on the concept and execution and the cargo possibilities are making it a bit of a no brainer for me and my work commitments...

[@kennethjackson7574]

First impression: It’s built for looks, and I bet you get some!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Oh yes

[@ddanny3108]

Excellent and fun channel but very professionally made. More please :-)

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Danny and glad you appreciate the work

[@Jaxs2]

Great advice, Tim .. i have owned a Smart 450 for 17 years now from new ... and i wanted to go electric.. but a new Smart E is ridiculous money .. So the Ami fits the bill ...just as you say people like Barrie C and others on KZbin have put me off and being in the UK driver's ain't to courteous to say the least even in the Smart i get pushed around a lot by other road users ... So im still in two minds ... You have seriously made me feel better about the Ami so fingers crossed 🤞.. take care as always 🙏 thanks 👍

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks. It is what it is and if you are unlucky (as with any purchase) you can end up with problems but the fact we saw two others in a village of 900 here whilst filming Sundays video speaks volumes about how well they are selling and running here

[@pastortindall]

Ours is due to arrive in August. We're looking forward to it. We are in our 80s and just potter around our suburb. I've so enjoyed the journey with you guys.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks very much and I really hope you enjoy your Ami!

[@parkview113]

Tim. you no speak with forked tongue - agree 100%

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Bill

[@frigbychilwether]

Hi, nice balanced review. A benefit I have is that you having an Ami brought me to the channel initially and I've spent many happy hours watching, including pre Elton content.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks very much. I know the algorithm would prefer it if we just talked car the whole time or riviera the whole time but I think people can have more than one interest at once!

[@lucius574]

Ami has a magic that i cannot explain… I own a Tesla which also shares that kind of magic. I believe both these cars have found a balance between joy, practicallity, and mainly putting the driver at the center of attention. I finally decided and bought an Ami buggy just a month ago, because of your videos. The buggy is excellent for southern countries like Spain, Italy, Greece (my location) and etc.. Because of the lack of doors, there is no need for air conditioning, so it is like riding a motorcycle. Winter is not too cold, so you just dress in a warmer jacket, and you are fine. Keep doing these videos and spreading this magic to everyone👍

[@MeandMonAmi]

How fantastic. We’d love a buggy but we’ve nowhere to store it

[@genx156]

That Magic you can't explain - it's called getting ripped off for a pile of PLASTIC dear 🤣🤣

[@M4T1J4P0]

Thank you very much for this. I have been debating whether to get the Ami for a while. This helps a lot in the decision-making process.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks. Our two year review coming soon!

[@davidmarshall5596]

Mister Me and Mister Boo and Elton! Can't believe how time has elapsed, but it has,& if anyone is fit to give an update on Ami ownership it's you Tim! Bloody hell its been to the moon & back 😅😅🎉 seriously though i think you hit the nail on the head...people need to realise it is NOT a car as such, but people being people expect a lot out of nothing!!!!!!!!! The Ami is fine for certain conditions fact! The okd saying ' A man must know hos limitations' also goes for owning an ami too! Really enjoying watching your adventures on the channel & youvhavw a great blend of humour & fun & everything that makes the channel 'work' 😊😊 stay well & obviously stay charged 🎉

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks David and for again taking the time to comment. I love thé Ami but it isn’t for everyone

[@philbrown9398]

A very balanced realistic review of a great little car. Very helpful to those of us thinking of buying one.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Phil

[@lookoutleo]

Great review :) I charge my leaf on 2.2kw cable all the time with a home made 30m extension . It's very heavy duty and it doesn't even get warm so it's fine to use extension , just make sure it's good quality :)

[@MeandMonAmi]

I think that’s the lesson I guess people worry about the fact the ami cable then remains heavily coiled up inside the body

[@Park2King]

@@MeandMonAmi Precisely my first thought: the Ami cable being coiled up in the vehicle while charging on an extension cord. Most heavy draw appliances caution the user to completely unroll the electrical cord to help dissipate any heat build-up between the mains and the appliance because cords do heat up, sometimes with disastrous effect. No way to know if this is the case with an Ami charging cord all rolled up unless you can borrow a FLIR thermal temperature gun and check the heat rise while the cord is coiled in the car and the vehicle is fully charging.

[@e.nord5999]

Ive visited the Château de Chambord, designed by Leonardo da Vinci. They once jammed some holes in the bottom of the staircase which is à piece of art. They found that it was too cold and didn t understand all this air circulation between two walls. But after a while, humidity settled into the walls. So they removed the insulation and it came back to normal. All that air circulation was designed to dry up condensation. So this to say that you shouldn t try to jam these holes in the car for they help keep the steam lower than with the holes stuck . There are some very useful anti steam cloth that help fighting the steam to settle in.

[@MeandMonAmi]

I’m not sure these holes are about that though. But I do take your point!

[@e.nord5999]

@@MeandMonAmi not sure too. But cool air coming in has 2 effects. Avoids steam. Makes the temperature seem higher . Dry air seems warmer than humid air. That s why the weather reports tell you about the feeling temperature. It goes with the air humidity . Lots of humidity seems colder in winter, and hotter in summer

[@onbedoeldekut1515]

Ooh to the err, to the M-iss-us! I haven't been flashed in decades!

[@nickyjames8550]

I always enjoy your videos and will continue to watch them because you always put a great big smile on my face , however the Citroen garage near me talked me out of buying one😅😅😅

[@MeandMonAmi]

We went to a mountain village filming yesterday. Population 900. Three there including us..

[@NZKaupoi]

I can’t believe you only traveled 8,000 km in 18 month’s! Glad you’re happy with your Elton 🎉

[@MeandMonAmi]

Me neither

[@thomasbjurstrom6480]

Awesome reviens! Thank you very much!

[@MeandMonAmi]

My pleasure!

[@mauriceelliott5902]

Thanks for the great, honest and down to brass tacks review. Really glad you have enjoyed your year with the Ami. Looking forward to seeing future journeys and vistas. Maybe Citroen will give you a free Mark 2 Ami, if and when that might happen, for all you review work. Thanks again. Maurice from Malvern Uk.y

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Maurice. I wish…!

[@petrolhead28]

Great review. In 2025 these will pay uk road tax like all evs. I can pick up a bimmer forr under 2k, the gorgeous e39, which leaves 6k for fuel and repairs.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks

[@backwoodsbungalow9674]

The E39 was acknowledged as the best car when it was new and is good value for money now. 👍 Future value might well increase.😎 I wonder if ULEZ rules will be ramped up until conventional cars are unable to enter urban areas. 😱

[@petrolhead28]

@@backwoodsbungalow9674 you and me both mate.

[@anthonytube]

Really enjoy your videos! Sadly mine had leaking issues from start and some other problems. Today after a few months a replacement arrived and it was even worse. Flimsy, poorly aligned, hump in the floor and even the badge on back was falling off. Real shame as love driving the Ami, I just want a good one! Hopefully will be third time lucky! Best wishes Ant

[@davebaker4620]

Great - what camera do you use as the video quality is amazing 🤔

[@MeandMonAmi]

This was just shot on an iPhone 13 Pro Max in 4k

[@rayro999]

An honest review of the Ami. Pros and Cons and FUN.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Ray

[@raisagorbachov]

That certainly seems to be built reasonably well. If they'd make one that'd maintain 55mph, it'd probably sell well in the USA. Heck, if there was an affordable car that did 55 and would do 80 miles and charge off 120v in 8 hours or less, I'd be interested.

[@hermitgreenn]

Wait until you see the welds on the frame, holy smokes i've seen golf carts that are better put together...

[@raisagorbachov]

@@hermitgreenn Bad welds are nothing new. There are more bad welds around than you'd imagine.

[@svetlanakorunoska6206]

Great informative videos! 👏👏They’ve inspired me to get an ami! One question though if you don’t mind me asking, what insurance have you got for it? I’m struggling to find one as all the insurers still ask for a drivers license!

[@MeandMonAmi]

In France?

[@svetlanakorunoska6206]

@@MeandMonAmi Yes!

[@vikingsystem]

great in depth review and milestone for Elton, I guess this little car (quad) is very suitable for urban environment and minor open road trips, low running costs and amazing value for money. these midweek videos are truly wonderful, thanks Tim.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks very much. He’s going strong!

[@willgarrod9907]

That is the most balanced review I’ve seen on the Ami. Well done but we want to see more of Twiggy please🥰

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks. Twiggy features heavily Sunday!

[@WowIndescribable]

One subject not addressed: Safety (actual and perceived)

[@krollpeter]

Most of the things you mentioned would be actually easily upgradable / improvable, but what we should absolutely never expect is style like a Bentley. This is the right thing for cheap and easy transport around town. It is the right thing for elderly people, for students and for everyone who prefer going longer distances by using public transport. You made that very clear. Fair and knowledgable assessment!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks. I love thé simplicity and don’t resent doing the little upgrades given how inexpensive it was to buy compared to other EV’s

[@e-trippingwithadamgebbett8024]

Totally fair review. Great quadracycle not a Rangerover replacement. Although better built than a Fiat panda....🥴

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks

[@ChrisJohnson-pd4hh]

I have a Panda (2015). Build quality is fine.....

[@e-trippingwithadamgebbett8024]

@@ChrisJohnson-pd4hh fair point. I had a 2009 one and was totally mechanically fine. But things did fall off at times. Still loved it though.

[@leneanderthalien]

For the top window, i use a mirror film, is much more efficient to reduce T° than the simple curtain...

[@MeandMonAmi]

Does it block light though? important for our filming…

[@MeandMonAmi]

That’s what we need!

[@KentBuchla]

Cool channel and quadracycle! Please balance your audio so that the interstitial music isn’t so much louder than your voice. It’s jolting.

[@cujoyyc4453]

I'd love to get one, though they're not available in Canada. I suspect they wouldn't fare well during a Canadian prairie winter when temperatures drop to -25ºC and lower … and that's before calculating the windchill.

[@MeandMonAmi]

No may be tricky!

[@AC_Milan1899]

Brilliant car. Well done Citroen, we need more of this leftfield approach.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Absolutely!

[@JimTheCorsa]

Great honest review. I really the little Ami, got to sit in one at FullyChargedLive however it just wouldn’t suit my lifestyle or usage case unfortunately. Love your channel and humour, it’s a little bit of escapism watching your adventures around the French Riviera

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks James. It has to work for you otherwise..

[@robertzeeland]

Big thumbs up for this interesting review! Best, Rob

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Rob

[@dsmhiggins67]

Great review. To me the ami makes perfect sense for commuting into work; into the city and doing the local shopping trip. I’m glad Citroen created this

[@MeandMonAmi]

Indeed and for going up a few mountains!

[@reinekewf7987]

i have the opel rocks e and year tire issue has it as well but they dont want to fix it. they claim this is no issue for driving stability and the wear if the tires wont matter because the tires are cheap. there is driving stability issue with that if it is wet the car hops left to right on a straight road if you drive over manholes and hydrants. also the steering geometry is also not right, on bumpy corners the steering angle the inner and outer tire changes massively some times i have the feeling the car floats like a boot and it is wet this is a safety concern. the problem here is the suspension is not adjustable and even it is the car is to narrow for standard alignment systems. i drove mine to a aixam dealer and they where shocked how poorly this thing is made. they found i had a broken suspension arm in the rear. this box welded thing where your wheelbase is connected to. a first they won work on an said i should go to opel and let it repair it for free because it is a safety concern made from factory. i told them i was by opel and they cant fine any issues so i drove it to you. they called opel and after 3h or so they called me back and said they will repair this and try to fix all the other issues i had and opel pays for under warranty. now my rocks e drives straight but they had to do some work to get it right it took 3 weeks to fix this. they had some welding to do in order to make it right. i know the ami/rocks e are cheap but build quality is in some places dangerous especial on places they shouldn't. they looked up the battery and charger system but there was no issue at all. this structure is solid and well made and the electronics and wiring are good quality. they told me the charger is capable of 14A (3000W) continuously but set to 8A (1800w) i thoght about to change it but i have at home only 8A and 10A breakers so i dont want is to change because they also said me this is a basic passive top leveling charger without inbound power control so no adaptive power draw. if you set it on 8A it draws 8A if you set ist on 14 it will draw 14A it does not test if your circuit can handle this. it is like a normal battery charger like for your phone or your 12v car battery. funny thing the 12v battery gets charged from a DC to DC converter that is directly connected to battery leads after the safety contractor thats activated if you charge or your ignition is on and this is able of 500w so a 12v cigarette lighter connector would be possible. maybe PSA thought about this option and scraped it in the end. i have now a better understanding how everything works and why those limits are where they are. I have no doubt that this thing won't last 15 years or more on the first battery, but as for the frame, I don't know. I think the electronics will survive longer than the frame. Some areas are not well coated and are already rusting.

[@peterredman235]

A very articulate and well thought out review

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Peter

[@tarassu]

Ir and UV filter tints on all glass surfaces. Not dark but..like violet color frm outside.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Yes I think we will go down that route certainly on the roof

[@kerbsidemotors9249]

First chinese diesel night heater conversion? Want a MK1 as newer ones seem poor build quality

[@bobchannell3553]

When I was in Colorado, I was scared to go fast down the mountains. The locals would honk and give me the finger and whip around me. I wonder if this guy took his tiny little car up and down any mountains with the locals honking. I'd love to drive a little car like that, but not with the big rude SUV's you'll see on our roads.

[@MeandMonAmi]

There’s about fifty videos on the channel where I do just that. Check em out!

[@nomnomnom-ch9xh]

im 18 and considering getting this as my first car. Torn between either this or an m2 competition; with this i could buy it upfront but with the m2 ill have to pay credit

[@MeandMonAmi]

Where are you based as I think that makes a difference

[@michaelthomas3646]

as a trained mechanic, and years of experience, I think you will find that when the ani is loaded the outside of the wheel at the top is angled in a way that lifts the outside of the wheel off the road surface, it is a common fault with trail (swing) arm suspension, is as the arm goes up, the worse the angle of the wheel. two ways to counter act this both require firming up the suspension so not really advisable on the ami, is because firming up the suspension means a harder ride. and that is to either replacing the springs for harder coils, or getting spacers put onto the suspension coils. my advice would just be to replace the tires every few thousand miles, as long as not every 7000 miles.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thank Michael. There is a widely reported issue with the Ami which dealers address by putting a spacer on the rear axle I think. Ours isn’t too bad but I’ve seen someone with totally worn out tires after 7000km which seems on the low side for tire longevity?

[@michaelthomas3646]

@@MeandMonAmi yeah it is short mileage, the true suspension on luxury cars is the best option which is like an active letter C, which is 6 or 8 pivot points per wheel (as some cars only need a single bar for suspension, 8 pivot points is more ideal though, and 4 bars connected to each wheel), but if you go for the ami or cheap car, then it only has a single pivot point, which is then only allowing the wheel to compress into the body at that point as the wheel axle isn't able to move, then it allows the camber to be worse the more weight in the car. which when you got soft suspension coils then the ride is smoother than say a solid axle between both rear wheels, but also worsens the wear on the rear wheels due to the single pivot point.

[@michaelthomas3646]

@@MeandMonAmi it is kind of like for example using your arm, with your upper arm level at starting point with your forearm pointing straight up, the single pivot point is your shoulder, your elbow stays in the same static position, that is how the ami or any cheap car suspension works. so as you can then see the more you lift your upper arm, the more angle with your forearm. and the more weight put into the car, the lower the backend sits to the road, and that is why weight is more important to the camber of the rear wheels. and the lack of firm suspension, or rock solid axle the worse the side effects of the camber.

[@michaelthomas3646]

@@MeandMonAmi another way to counter act the suspension problem is if you know the camber angle of the wheel when both you and your friend are in the car, nearly all garages would refuse to change the camber angle because of the wheel arches being too close to the rear wheels, which when the suspension is fully compressed could cause the wheels to hit the arches. whereas with the single pivot point it allows the wheel to just about clear the arches. but even if they did adjust the camber, it would introduce another problem of outside tire wear when only yourself in the car. so totally swings and round-abouts, and no true way out of it apart from a solid axle, or totally active suspension, which on an ami would be impossible for the last option.

[@michaelthomas3646]

@@MeandMonAmi but mostly boils down to the fact that if the shock abosorber was connected to the bottom of the wheel, and the wishbone was connected to the top of the wheel, then the wheel would be able to adjust closer to correctly having 2 pivot points, but then would add the extra complication of either a higher ride height, or needing the extra room inside the car for the wishbone to clear the bottom of the car. but car manufacturers want to go with the cheaper option of having the shock above the wishbone, a static bracket for the wheel, and only the wishbone as the only moving part, as less work in design, manfacturing, and also material costs.

[@uweinhamburg]

Sounded like a very balanced review. 8.000km already??? I feel like i have been with you for at least 4.000 of them 🤣 and my driving experience with you and mon ami has been great! I cannot remember that you ever mentioned tax or insurance for the ami - isn't that a part of the running cost as well? For many, many more kilometers to come - all the best!

[@KKRRAAYY]

depends on where you live I think. Belgium: no roadtax, cheap insurance (same as a small motorcycle). So about total cost is going to be about maintenance and how long the battery lasts.

[@MeandMonAmi]

True. Road tax very minimal here. Insurance about 70£ a month for both of us which is higher because we don't have licences.

[@mjack1935]

i got mine yesterday and it is all your fault! thank you for testing everything out !

[@MeandMonAmi]

Absolutely 100% agree

[@ianworley8169]

I hate that journos always call these 'city cars'. As your reviews have proved, they're equally suited to low mileage rural or semi-rural use. My mountain home in Portugal is 13km from the nearest shop and 25km to the nearest city. We do 600-800km per month in our Hyundai i20 and an Ami would cover 95% of my daily mileage. Saving up for one right now.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Exactly providing you can get there and back it’s an incredibly low cost and fun mode of transport (a bit hot in a heatwave though..)

[@mr_glasgow84]

A fair and honest review 👏🏼

[@liamcohen8626]

Really intrigued about the Ami

[@MeandMonAmi]

We love ours but they ain’t for everyone

[@YourMajestyTheKing]

Driving the MINI SE watching this. Mine is bought around same time as yours. Of course mine is an actual car and has Air conditioning, etc. but done way more than 5000 miles. Too bad that i can't keep it when i get the Porsche Cross Turismo

[@fdk7014]

Never heard about this one before but it looks awesome! I need a go-to-work car and this would suit me just fine. It even has way more range than I really need!

[@MeandMonAmi]

It’s a lot of fun and super economical but has to work for your sitauction

[@danielcooper6120]

How about tinting the glass a bit instead of the shade still see out clearly and bring the temperature down and when parked cover the car with a cheap outside cover seconds to take off and seconds to put on that will keep the car an awful lot cooler

[@MeandMonAmi]

I dont fancy the tinting even though I suspect it would help a bit.

[@zenzen9131]

Excellent and honest review Tim :)

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks

[@Toad8701]

hI THERE I HAVE BEEN FOLLWING your videos which are great , l am thinking of buying one in the UK , it comes with a 2 pin plus socket do you or can you plug it in to your home electric socket , because l am thinking if you can with an uk 13amp adaptor i could get over the charging problem

[@MeandMonAmi]

Yes Citroen say you need a special adaptor but most people just use a good quality adaptor from two pin to three pin

[@Toad8701]

Thank you for getting back to me, i do like the look of the fiat but they are that much dearer and of course they are not on the market as yet, thanks again

[@jonross545]

Hiya from Charente Maritime.Must be ok cos you have been running it for how long?

[@MeandMonAmi]

18 Months

[@iwant2helptraining]

Bravo guys, thank you so much for all your efforts

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks

[@technics6215]

I wonder what the total cost of ownership for something like this is over its entire designed service life, and what the manufacturer's expected lifespan actually is.

[@willyabraham6576]

yes,the "ami" looks great and i would be eager to buy one, but it seems to be impossible to get one in switzerland. i find it is really a shame ,that i can not get one in swiss after this vehicule is by now nearly 3 years in production.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Yes a great shame.

[@grahamherbert3612]

When 'novelty', meets ludicrous and very dangerous. I'd suggest that Tim profiles up perfectly as a typical Ami owner. I'd expect to pay no more than 4k for this vehicle.

[@jinscardetail7025]

I really need help! Do I buy a normal Citroën Ami or the Citroën Ami Buggy??? I live in the Netherlands and don’t know what to choose…

[@HygienistDentist]

That's silly that the Regen doesn't start until it drops down that much. But v cool car. Wish we had one over here in the states

[@MeandMonAmi]

It’s there to protect that battery from over charge..

[@thorbjrnhellehaven5766]

Seeing the 3D print to plug the "ventilation", I got an idea about making some device for the charging stations missing a door.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Ha. I’m on it! Trouble is not sure they are all identical but I guess the trio switch might be..

[@thorbjrnhellehaven5766]

@@MeandMonAmi worst case. You have to make a few different. I guess it might be an iteration process anyway, and maybe some "fail" will work on a different station.

[@Filipe1020]

Hey Tim, Fiat has just unveiled the Topolino which is their version of the Ami, what is your opinion on it?

[@MeandMonAmi]

Looks cute. I like the ropes on the buggy version (very old school Fiat 500!)

[@iantobanter9546]

Hanging on to my zero road tax 60mpg Alto for as long as poss.

[@williebobs3830]

The average mileage in the uk is 10,000 Miles pa. 5,000 km = 3,000 Miles.

[@petrolhead28]

It's the same as all cars depending on season. Now they've been around a couple of years I'm seriously tempted, having almost been an early adopter and paying the pre release deposit. Obviously the cost new in rip off brittain was stupid for such a vehicle.

[@BTKCuk]

Great balanced review! For me, this is the future of electric cars; not huge heavy SUVs. One question: how would one perform in climbing a steep hill with 2 people and a full weekly shop on board?

[@MeandMonAmi]

Check out some of our other videos john I think we’ve covered this quite few times in different ways

[@guth21776]

Its the modern day 2cv, Quirky, Fun, odd looking and cheap to buy and run as was the 2cv. And like the 2cv its not a limo or a drivers car but it will do a job.

[@MeandMonAmi]

Absolutely

[@marcuspaul0815]

No it isn‘t. As a student I had a 2 CV, and we used it to get from Northern Germany to Southern France quite a few times for our holidays. Try that with this thing.

[@Vector_Ze]

I wish I had the option. I don't believe there's any way this vehicle will ever be sold in the USA.

[@MeandMonAmi]

That’s a shame

[@ScottBakernewthinking]

Great review. Will it ever come to America? Also, what will new versions be like? Will they have solar windows or Perovskite coatings to trickle charge the car, possibly enough so it never needs external charging? Will they fix the steam/AC issues?

[@MeandMonAmi]

I don’t think the steam issue is entirely soluble without a new air con system which may not be really in keeping with the concept but who knows?

[@IslaSprollie]

Brilliant review, as usual

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks

[@paulwheeldon3487]

A brilliant presentation!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Paul

[@AntonioAlmeidaSimoesSilva]

Hello! I have been following your videos which I think are fantastic. I own an Ami that has 5000km on it. Currently when driving I hear a noking behind the left wheel, more when the road is uneven. In Portugal, the roads with granite stone parallels make it very noisy in the interior. OK! But the noise is very unpleasant. Any ideas to solve this problem? Thank you so much.

[@peterp5099]

„Is this the best car I can get for that money?“ - „no, that would be the Dacia Sandero.“ - „Ah, ok.“ Is there anything IMPORTANT to add regarding the decision if to buy that car or not?

[@SalyBlack]

I have subscribed to your channel right now for one reason only . You said you have never been able to drive before this car is battery run , needs no license in uk . I’m 60 years old at 17 they would not allow me to take a test because I couldn’t see the number plate at 20 meters , even tho I wore glasses from the age of 9years . ALL MY LIFE IVE WANTED TO DRIVE , , HAD MY EYES CHECKED REGULARLY , ALWAYS SAME REPLY YOU CAN SEE THE SIZE IN LETTERS AS AREON A NUMBER PLATE ,,, BUT CANT DO IT OUTSIDE , what made you get one please because now I’m very excited to test drive and buy . Please Please reply . Great video now I will check the rest of them . Thanks

[@SkinPeeleR]

5000 miles. That's 4800 more then i expected.

[@dasgellendehorn1393]

for longer distances i'd prefere a Rolly Royce. And if I am in a hurry a Ferrari might be a better choice.

[@Jamienomore]

Excellent Information Given. It is undeniable the Ami was made for Warm Countries. In the UK it's life expectancy is two and a half years because of the very bad Manufacturing. No real Manufacturing Company would allow such bad welding. The Metal Frame starts rusting very quickly. Citroen was Informed but as always, they have done nothing to fix those problems.

[@chrisspain]

Got mine for over a year and there is not a spec of rust anywhere. I did however spray it when is was new. But I do not expect anything rusty on it. My Tesla (2019) Model3 however, is rusting. Nothing serious yet but still.

[@jjbiggmann5576]

IF YOU WATCH .."DOUGS SHED"...HE COATS HIS WITH LANOLIN....MIGHT BE AN ANSWER..

[@richardbas2948]

All the cars I bought, I always gave them a full 'ML-tectyl' treatment! Every car you buy should be treated by the owner though, but most drivers (owners) don't think of it, or don't care... The stuff is for sale in almost every car accessories store. Yess I've seen the welding and it really is bad at some places, but I would 're-do' them myself. I would love to buy one, but even second hand they are still very expensive here in the Netherlands. When you(Tim&Boo) bought it, the new price was+/-€6500,= in the Netherlands, but now they are around €9000,= as a second hand even! I must ad that my absolute hobby is: buying Citroen cars old and tatty and restore them to (better than) new😁.... But Tim and Mr Boo: Keep it up and stay charged! We enjoy every minute of you and your adventures ❤. With kind regards, Richard

[@MeandMonAmi]

That’s interesting!

[@MeandMonAmi]

Thanks Guys. I wonder if people will be restoring first version AMI’s in 25 years time. I bet they will!

[@NotALot-xm6gz]

If you need to use any road where the speed limit is above 50kph, no.

[@MeandMonAmi]

We’ve done tonnes check out our other videos!

[@Fydron]

I would love to have one or the new topolino but sadly in Finland these things are priced at 12-14k € used and with that price its just no go.

[@MeandMonAmi]

That’s a lot