Peugeot 306 Cabrio

ENGINE 1761cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 112bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 114lb ft@4250rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 117mph 0-60MPH 12.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 30-39mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months ODOMETER 3895 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Starting up instantly before settling to a smooth tick-over, the engine feels showroom fresh. Performance is brisk but not shocking, while the handling is exact with plenty of feedback – unsurprising considering so few miles travelled. With minimal wear, it’s difficult to fault the drivetrain. Modern brakes bring everything to a halt straight and true with no unusual noises or rattles inside the cabin, with or without the electric roof in place.

BODYWORK CHECK

The Pininfarina styling touches work well with the Diablo Red Metallic paint. While the soft top would benefit from a good clean, it is undamaged, and it should be stressed that we tested this 306 prior to any pre-sale preparation. Black vinyl trim covers the lid that conceals its folding roof, and areas have separated from the base – plus there is a small mark on the bootlid. The nearside front wing has a stonechip and there is a small dent on the bonnet, while the alloy rims are free from any kerb damage. The grey protection trims around the car are immaculate. Overall the exterior presents well.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

Sahara Tan leather with black trim may not suit every taste but there is no denying the comfort levels. There are plenty of switches to test, including electric windows, mirrors, plus the folding roof; all of which operated correctly when tested. The air conditioning operates – although we suspect it will need a re-gas. The leather and carpets have suffered minimal wear; apart from the odd scuff mark to polish away, this interior presents well.

UNDER THE BONNET

With no signs of front-end repair work carried out, the bay area requires an hour or so with spray polish to remove the cobwebs. There are no signs of fluid leaks and certainly no unwanted engine noises, hardly surprising as the history file contains every invoice from new plus all the MoT certificates. 12 stamps (mostly from the supplying dealer) fill the service book, the last being in 2016. Many visits were just a few hundred miles apart, confirming the previous owner carried out maintenance as required without waiting for the appropriate mileage. A full dealer pack is included, including instruction manuals plus the original brochure.

THE CCW VIEW

This 306 Cabriolet will certainly enjoy greater enthusiast appreciation in another decade, especially if the mileage stays low; for now, it might be a little too ‘modern classic’ for some. Saying that, it offers roof-down touring potential for four with a bright paint finish and luxury interior. With the lowest of mileages and an impressive history file, this Pug could be one to use sparingly and watch its value rise. Grant Ford

EXTERIOR Almost showroom condition INTERIOR Luxury leather, every extra, lots of space MECHANICALS Well-maintained Dealer history