EARLIER Citroen C3 prices are now down to around £2,000, so with full service history – which they should all have – they are a good buy.
The bubble shape might not appeal to all, but it is very practical and there’s a wide range of engines to choose from, ranging from 1.1 litre, 60 bhp to 1.6 litre, 110bhp petrol and 1.4 litre, 70bhp to 1.6 litre, 110bhp turbo diesel.
All are smooth and willing, driving the front wheels through five speed manual or semi-auto gearboxes.
Economy is excellent in them all, but the diesels are all capable of more than 60 miles per gallon, which has to be very special.
That said, the difference in price between diesel and petrol cars, combined with the more expensive fuel, means that it now takes many years for a new diesel to show a gain over petrol.
C3s have a comfortable ride and safe, agile handling with reasonably informative electric power steering.
Interior.
All are pretty well equipped, with central locking, electric front windows and front and side airbags.
The cabin is fairly narrow and the C3 is only really a four seater, but the boot is a good size and there’s a split-fold back seat.
FAST FACTS
Citroen C3 1.1 petrol.
Price: Pay about £2,200 for an ’02 52-reg L, £3,750 for an ’05 55-reg Desire, or £5,400 for an ’08 08-reg Vibe.
Mechanical: 60bhp, 1124cc, 4 cyl petrol driving front wheels via 5 spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 98mph
0-62mph: 15.4 seconds.
Combined mpg: 47
Insurance group: 2
Emissions 143g/km
Marks: 8/10.
Main Rival: Ford Fiesta.