Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - lucklesspedestrian

Hi

It's time to retire the Mondeo (2.0 TDCi) which at 8 years old and 120K miles is probably getting to 'that' point.

I was down at a local dealers just there, in super sensible mode looking at a new model 2012 Civic 1.8 petrol which I figured would be bulletproof and economical (we don't need something as big as the Mondy really now).

I was however disappointed at just how tight it was in the back compared to an old Mk2 Focus we once had. Whilst the sales guy was away getting keys I noticed a Pug 508 saloon 2011 plate with a sticker price of £6995. I guessed it must have a really high milege at that price but no, a mere 27K.

The sales guy explained its low price as being due to it not being a diesel, it's the 156 bhp 1.6 THP petrol engine. I've had a look online and the reviews seem to be pretty positive saying it's an underrated car and a bit of a step-up in quality for Peugeot. It also looks like I should be able to screw 40mpg from it. Haven't test driven it, obviously have to consult SWMBO but I'm seriously tempted at that price if I can get an okay trade in against the Mondeo.

But it's a Peugeot, a big relatively unheard of, petrol Peugeot! What do you think, is it an unsung bargain waiting to be snapped up or is it likely to be a big unreliable French moneypit? I know there is no definitive answer, you pays your money and takes your chance but any thoughts would be welcome

Cheers

Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - gordonbennet

I have no idea about the engine and its long term prospects, but if the price to change is right i wouldn't kick it out of bed, i wouldn't touch the 1.6HDi with a bargepole but would be prepared to give this one a shot if it's been looked after.

From what i hear early Mondy prices are taking a bit of a hit.

If it was me i'd try and do a deal asap if you fancy it, once you've raced through as many Pug forums and sensible reviews as you can, they might do you a good deal to wrap up one of the last sales of the year, today even.

Proably as good a bet as any if you keep your cars for a fair time, once they get to 8/10 years very few are worth much, indeed some older Pugs 405/406 are still well regarded used buys though the 407 doesn't seem to be at the moment.

Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - elekie&a/c doctor
This never heard of 1.6 petrol Peugeot engine will be the same "prince "engine that is found in a Mini from around 2006.not a particularly reliable engine with problems with timing chains and oil consumption.Go look a a Focus.
Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - gordonbennet

Oh Lord not the same engine as found in Bini Cooper S's, i had no idea, ignore my previous post, every single one of my mates wife's Cooper S's has had several visits for timing chain replacements, on the supercharged version the charger failed, on the turbo version the turbo failed.

Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - lucklesspedestrian

But, but, it won 'International Engine of the Year' ........

no seriously, thanks guys, dodged a bullet there!

Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - Bianconeri
This never heard of 1.6 petrol Peugeot engine will be the same "prince "engine that is found in a Mini from around 2006.not a particularly reliable engine with problems with timing chains and oil consumption.Go look a a Focus.

My experience of this engine is that it's brilliant, powerful and very economical. It's a PSA design that BMW used not the other way around. There were some issues with timng chains on the early 150bhp variants, most now fixed. The 155 and 165 bhp variants have improved chains. The 200 bhp version is, anecdotally, prone to misfires. No idea if BMW bothered to improve the chains as they were committted to a new engine.
Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - Andrew-T

Traditionally all big Peugeot models depreciate drastically, perhaps slightly less than Citroens, but like most large cars, so at 4 years old the one you are looking at could turn out to be a snip. I know nothing of the engine, but as it's used in several models there should be plenty of info (as already mentioned).

So it's more about liking the car (and SWMBO of course) and the deal you can strike. The query may be about why the mileage is so modest?

Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - 72 dudes

At that price I'd be very tempted. Do make sure you like the way it drives and rides though. My sister has the 2.0 HDi SW and the ride is jiggly and unsettled (17" wheels). They don't ride like the old 405/406, even the 407.

The same engine was also available in the 2008-on C5, but was even rarer.

Peugeot 508 1.6 THP - Is this a bad idea? - Oli rag

I'd definitely pick the civic, the peugeot is too much of a shot in the dark as a long term keeper. It all boils down to what is more important to YOU, a bit less room in the back and total reliability or potentially ruinous bills and frustration on the other hand. Best of luck with your choice.