A history lesson…
From 2001-2007, the Peugeot 307 managed to steal our hearts. Most people didn’t instantly care for the slightly radical looking 307, but after a couple of years, a few new models like the CC and estate, we were taken hook, line and sinker.
It wasn’t the dynamic car ever made, but it was a good alternative to the Ford Focus, it was cheap and it was actually quite reliable. The engines that were available had been fitted into Peugeots for years, so they all worked well and were relatively modern at the time. It was just a car for everyone.
Bang for your buck
Peugeots always represent a good value alternative to the more premium and expensive Fords or BMWs. They are never as technically-minded, capable on the road or as exciting, but they offer cheap and easy motoring for people who just want a car to be a car and not an extension of their genitalia.
There are several versions available: the SW estate, the GTi, the standard hatchback and convertible CC. The pick of the bunch is probably the SW, as it offers loads of space over the standard hatchback, still looks relatively acceptable and is a great load-lugger.
What you’ll pay
You can pick up a seriously cheap 307 these days thanks to the new 308 taking the reins. Y reg models can be picked up for as little as £2,000, and if you want a 2.0-litre GLX it will cost just £3,000 on an 04-plate.
What to check
As the 307 is now quite an old car – with some models being over ten years old now – it’s best to check everything from interior carpet quality, rust, seat quality and engine performance.
Parts
Parts for the Peugeot 307 are very cheap, with an air filter costing around £10 and an oil filter going for approximately £15. Spark plugs are around £10 each.
How it drives
You can just by looking at the 307 that it’s not going to be a BMW M5 through the corners, nor is it even in the same league as a standard Ford Focus, but that’s really missing the point. It’s not a dynamic car with superb feeling through the steering wheel, it won’t get your adrenaline going and you definitely won’t feel engaged, but it’ll go about its business quietly without much fuss. It’ll soothe your brow after a long day and should stay reliable. It’s just an A-to-B car. That’s it.
The boot, especially in the SW version, is very respectable, and the diesel engines are excellent for economy. The 307 is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s one of the best cars Peugeot has made over the past 20 years.
The 308 may have moved the game on slightly, but if you want a cheaper alternative, there’s really nothing wrong with going for a 2004, 50,000 mile 307. It’ll be all the car you’ve ever wanted, just don’t expect it to have a play down below, because this lady doesn’t get freaky like that.
