MATT GEORGE

BUDGET: £500 1988 Peugeot 205 1.4

Just 91k on the clock and MOT until January 2018. Recent water pump and cambelt is a bonus, too.

These little buzzboxes were everywhere in the Eighties and Nineties, and with good reason. A wheel on each corner means go-kart-like handling, while even smaller-engined cars are nippy enough. Go diesel for mega MPG.

Rust: inner sills can rot from the inside out before the issue becomes obvious. A ‘squeaky’ rear beam means the bearings are shot and replacement is the only option. Strut top bearings wear out and spoil ride quality.

Club Peugeot UK is the place to go for support this side of the channel. Visit clubpeugeotuk.

org for more. Modern discount firms like Euro Car Parts and GSF also still hold old-stock spares at surprisingly cheap prices, too.

I owned a 1.8 XLD for two years and over 17,000 miles. It wasn’t quick, but boy was it frugal, as well as being fun to drive. Find one that has been cherished and you’ll have a great all-rounder for peanuts.

Simple – the 205 is a doddle to work on. Basic service parts such as filters, discs, pads and shoes are inexpensive and readily available. No special tools are required to keep this French fancy in fine fettle.