Peugeot 406 2.1TD LX

Pure value for money motoring. I bought my 2.1TD LX estate with 155k on the clock, full service history and only one owner from new. Bought it in auction for £840 and spent £600 getting through its first MOT. Since then I've had three and a half years excellent motoring, and only had to replace the radiator, tyres and exhaust in that time. Pulls like a dream all day long and will still accelerate up a steep hill with four adults and luggage - I know because I have done it many times to amaze my mates!

brilliantly reliable ... 20,000 miles in 1 year ... this thing just goes on and on and on and does not want to stop.

I have Owned the Peugeot 406 2.1TD LX from 12 months old, and always 100% reliable, altough the electronic keypad security system was a pain in the butt! Had to key in the number every time you start the car.

Generally got around 42 to the gallon, and was relatively pleased with performance, happy on the motorway at 80 to 85 and plenty nippy enough for overtaking (with some planning).

Tyre wear at the front a bit heavy but then it's a heavy engine so what do you expect?

Probably not as good as similar Germanic offerings but a close second.