5 WAYS TO MAKE IT BETTER

LOOK AFTER IT 1

There’s little appetite for modification of standard 19s, so money is best spent on maintaining one properly. Fluids, filters, and other service items aren’t expensive and regular maintenance is well within the scope of a DIY mechanic, so there’s no excuse for neglect. Where fitted, make sure that the cam belt is changed at least every fi ve years if annual mileages is low.

2 STOP THE ROT

Terminal corrosion killed off many 19s, so it would be a shame to let any more disappear. Tackle any small rust patches as soon as they appear, and if the bodywork is sound then an annual session with Waxoyl or similar should keep it that way. Regular clearance of body and sunroof drain holes is advisable, too.

3 PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

16-valve engines are most likely to have been upgraded – some were even turbocharged. A sports exhaust and performance air fi lter are common mods and still worth considering. That said, many enthusiasts favour originality so you may prefer to return a modified one to standard specification.

4 IMPROVE THE BRAKES

16v cars aren’t lacking in the stopping department, but there’s no harm in making some subtle improvements. Less than £100 buys uprated pads, with £150-200 for uprated front discs and around £70 for braided hoses. Removing the Bendix ABS system involves work on the master cylinder, servo, and pipework so get advice from the owners’ clubs or specialists before tackling the job.

SUSPENSION WORK 5

Polyurethane bushes sharpen things up, plus they’ll last longer. Budget around £170 for the parts to do the front wishbones and anti-roll bar on a 16v. Struggling to source front struts for a 16v? Mégane Coupé 20v items fit, or a more involved option is swapping to Clio 172/182 struts; other parts and adaptation is required but it would allow the use of those car’s bigger brakes.