Peugeot 406 Coupé

Like finding a designer suit on the shelves at your local supermarket, the Pininfarina-styled Peugeot 406 Coupé set new standards for family car makers - and if stories on the bush telegraph are true, it's no surprise why.
Rumour has it the model was originally pencilled as part of a bid to tempt Ferrari into the cut-price supercar market. But when the designs failed to sell, the stylists passed them to Peugeot.
Never before had such a beautiful machine cost so little. And now, it's even better value, with a usable car yours for £2,500. With only 10,709 sold here, exclusivity is guaranteed - and as the 406 is also good to drive and well equipped, its beauty goes more than skin deep.
Checklist:
* Switchgear: the cabin is pretty bland and the indicator stalks in particular are poorly engineered, and may break in the hands of ham-fisted owners. Fortunately, more durable replacements are available from Peugeot dealers.
* Brakes: Brembo brakes, as fitted to diesel and V6 models, squeal badly. Regular removal of brake dust from the calipers with an airline helps reduce the noise, so try this if your car draws unwanted attention when you come to a halt.
* Engine: check the radiator for rust and the hoses, which can perish and crack. These can both leak coolant. Elsewhere, diesel cambelts need renewing every 96,000 miles or eight years - for petrol models, it's every 80,000 miles or eight years.
* Air-con: ensure the air-con is working as it should, as problems are common. When you get back from a test drive with the engine up to temperature, try all the settings and check all is well whether it's set to 'hot' or 'cold'.
* Suspension: if there's a clonking noise from the front end as you corner, the most likely cause is the anti-roll bar bushes having worn out - they're a cheap and easy fix, though, so don't be put off if that's what is making the noise.
Prices
The classifieds are full of 1997 Coupés at around £2,500, but mileages will be well into six figures. Spend double that to get a 70,000-mile 2000-2002 model. If you want a diesel, you'll need at least £6,000. Buy one of the last HDi cars in SE trim and you can pay up to £13,000.
What to look for
If you opt for the thirsty 3.0 V6, ensure it has leather for an easy resale. But whatever you pick, check the electrics, as faults are common. Post 02-platers have more reliable multiplex wiring. It's also worth joining the 406 Coupé Club (www.peugeot406coupe.com), as this is full of fans ready to pass on advice.
Recalls
These recalls relate to all Peugeot 406 models, including the saloon and estate - call the firm on 0845 200 1234 with the chassis number for specific queries.
Dec 1998: Possible road wheel failure.
Mar 1999: Bonnet safety catch issue.
Feb 2000: Brake pedal assembly fault.
Jan 2001: Possibility that rear suspension fixing bolts may shear.
Aug 2001: Potential chafing of brake servo vacuum pipe.
Apr 2002: Possible reduction in braking assistance, plus engine problems.
May 2003: Water in cooling fan.
Sept 2003: Incorrect wiring of side airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Feb 2006: Fuel leak within engine.
Owner comment
Kerr Nice from St Albans, Herts, is smitten - he's on his third V6 Coupé. "Aside from a few niggles, my car has been great," he said. "I use a Peugeot Express Fit outlet which charges far less than a main dealer, but gives excellent service.
"The V6 is fabulous, and not as thirsty as you might think - I average around 30mpg. Yet even when it's driven hard, my 406 Coupé never misses a beat."

Verdict

The Peugeot 406 has already been replaced - which means prices are low. Wait a while and they will soften even further, but it will become harder to find cherished examples. Main-stream cars that look as good as the 406 Coupé are a rare thing, so now's the time to grab the opportunity to get behind the wheel of something so good-looking at such a cheap price. With a decent boot and room for four in the cabin on offer, too, you won't have to totally sacrifice practicality for style. We like the fabulous looks, frugal HDi powerplant and high level of standard equipment. We don't like the ordinary cabin sourced from 406 saloon, thirsty V6 engine, unreliable electrics of early cars and average build quality.