Peugeot 206 2.0 GTi Review

Good Points
Looks, handling, steering, relatively basic and low-weight, practicality, interior, badge, character, performance (esp. w/induction-kit).

Bad Points
Rattles, electronics, headlights at night in snow/ rain reflects badly, ventilation, exhaust longevity.

General Comments
Had a good long drive along my favourite backroad with the new 170hp Cooper S the other day. Next day, same conditions with a 2002 206 GTI. Contrary to all the hype-reviews on the Mini, this is what I noticed only while driving the Pug: I was laughing! Why? Because the car was so fantastically entertaining and involving when pushed along this badly surfaced, hilly and curvy strech of road. Steering, front end bite, traction, balance, all helped make it so much more enjoyable than the Mini. Couldn't really believe it myself. Mini had only about 1,000 miles on the clock, so probaly wasn't at it's peak yet. Compared to the 206 it had an abrupt throttle response, weighty steering but without real feel, tractionissues and, not to forget, more than 100 kilos extra weight. Unsurprisingly, I opted for a 206 GTI, a real drivers car!