[ Owning a Peugeot 406 Coupé]
Jonathan Moses
The 406 V6 in the pictures is Jonathan Moses’ second coupé. Says Jonathan, ‘I bought it eight years ago and it took nine months to find a manual V6; many have been neglected. Today it’s a second car, but practical for everyday use, with a big boot and folding rear seats for added usability. Comfort is excellent; the Coupé is at its best on long journeys. In 2017 I drove it to Milan for an international club meeting and arrived feeling completely fresh after two days on the road. ‘They’re so practical. It’s a coupé, but it seats four adults in comfort, with plenty of room for all their luggage in the boot. The multi-link rear suspension means it rides comfortably, it’s supple/ All of that makes it an ideal next step for a family classic motorist who’s outgrown a 205GTI – it’s great fun to drive and yet it’s even tough enough to be used as a tow car, if necessary.
Carl Chambers
Carl runs Peugeot specialist CM Chambers Cars in Suffolk and has owned and run several 406 Coupés in both four- and six-cylinder guises. Says Carl, ‘I’ve been into Peugeots for over 30 years, bought my first in 1990 and started working on them in 1996. I service and repair all models, with 406 saloons and estates still popular with those who want practical, budget transport as well as increasing numbers of classic enthusiasts appreciating the Coupé for its styling and drive.
‘The basic problem with taking on a 406 Coupé project is the very low values of these cars, which are unlikely to rise soon. So any major work is hard to justify financially, but you could buy a tatty one for buttons and use second-hand parts. The huge array of colours and trims mean it’s a bit of a lottery finding matching items.
‘It’s no problem sourcing mechanical and service parts, whether pattern or original. However, many other genuine items are getting scarce, although pattern bits are often available. The main issue is Coupé-specific bits – front fog lights, headlights, bumpers and door seals are really hard to find. The V6 induction system is inefficient and the ‘sock’ to the airbox deteriorates and can collapse, cutting off the air supply. The low air intake can also suck in water, so it’s worth replacing with a scoop intake to the original airbox or replacing the induction set-up for easier breathing.’