C5 II and 407 engines

[Toby_HDi]

A change of circumstances means that my XJR has to go . It is to be replaced by something that is more affordable to someone looking to get into their first house

I'm looking at a variety of cars but just cannot decide on what to go for. I'm not very familiar with the later 16v HDi units in the 407 and C5 II so would appreciate some comments on them. The three I'm looking at are the 110bhp 1.6, the 136bhp 2.0 and the 173bhp 2.2. Basically any comments would be welcome, especially recommendations on which to go for. Economy wise, the 1.6 appears very attractive but I'm concerned its not enough for a car the size of the 407 or the C5 II.

I'm also looking at Alfa JTDs in the 156. Both appeal, especially the 2.4 but I can't decide if I should sacrifice the 5mpg and 25bhp and get the 1.9. Ford Mondeos are also in the frame (I know! but they seem to be regarded as decent cars in TDCi form) Looking at the 2.0 TDCi and the 2.2 TDCi which I believe are variants of those fitted to the C5 II and 407.

C6s are just too far out of reach, I need to save money for a deposit on a flat so a C6 will have to wait once more. I've also been thinking about another Xantia HDi but I've been surprised to find decent ones are now very thin on the ground. Something a bit newer would be nice anyway.

So, to the gurus of FCF....What say you?

[bxzx16v]

Sorry to hear the Jag has to go Toby , my choice would be the 19 jtd engined alfa , very lively engine for a diesel and with a remap some very decent figures available . Second choice would be a Renault Laguna III with the 150/175 bhp 2.0dci , my wife has the 175 model and it is a peach , reasoable economy and fantastic performance . They can also be had for quite good prices too .

Mark

[Citroenmad]

The only choice out of your lot would be either te C5II or 407 with the 2.0 16v 138bhp unit. Its a very reliable engine, its great for eocnomy (mine has done 50.3 for the last 800 miles) and its got a bit of go. The 1.6s can be problematic and id want more in a big car. My cousin has just had a turbo replaced on her 1.6 407 (at 60K), cost a fortune, the seller of the turbo wouldnt guarantee the turbo unless a recon/new engine was fitted. Its done 60 miles since and the engine is not too happy now. Its going cheap?!?

The TDCis are not all PSA units, most of the engines in the Mondeo from 2001-2008 are Ford units, chain driven. Looking on the Mondeo site when I was looking they seem to eat injectors. They also rot quite a lot, especially on the rear door bottoms.

C5s and 407s dont rust, they are well equipped, they are comfortable, very good value and the engines are superb. Why would you look at anything else?

[SaabC5]

Mondeo TDCi's also eat DMF's for breakfast, lunch & tea, a lot worse than C5's anyway.

[Toby_HDi]

Thanks for the replies.

I must admit it is the Alfa I'm leaning towards. I was looking more at the 2.4 JTD. Not so many of those about compared to the 1.9.

Concerning C5s (I've decided I don't want a 407) then it does seem the 2.0 is the one to go for. I've heard similar stories to Chris' now regarding the 1.6 and the 2.2s seem to be fetching rather good money.

I've also steered myself away from Mondeos. I did wonder why many of them on Ebay had flywheel faults or stated that they had new injectors.

On the other hand, I've just found a rather tidy looking Xantia. Shame its not an Estate but I'm wondering if I should just get the Xantia now. At least I know my way around one.

[CitroJim]

On the other hand, I've just found a rather tidy looking Xantia. Shame its not an Estate but I'm wondering if I should just get the Xantia now. At least I know my way around one.

That would be a sensible move Toby. They cost peanuts to run and repair with all the knowledge on this site.. I'd go for it. An HDi I presume?

[Toby_HDi]

Indeed it would. Yes it is an HDi and is a 2001 so one of the last and with cheaper tax. I phoned about it earlier and although he says it drives quite well there is no history with the car. Not much of a problem though as my last HDi was bought with no history. Cambelt can be done for the cost of parts.

Only problem is it is in Kidderminster and I now cannot get up there until after next weekend at the earliest and am concerned it will be gone by then.

[Toby_HDi]

Well I managed to fit it in around work.

I will post pictures in a thread tomorrow but I now own a 2001 Xantia HDi 110. 112k so not huge mileage for a HDi. Green, not Emerald - still need to find out its name but its lighter than Emerald - with 12 months MOT. Being 2001 registered (has an early 2000 RP number) it qualifies for cheaper tax so only £135 a year rather than £220. Came with NI plates too which makes it a bit different - though some fool has made up a new front one with a GB mark

Going to do the cambelt and spheres at some point and adjust the handbrake. Otherwise its all cosmetic, no dents but a few scrapes. Going to try not to worry about them too much and just use it for what I bought it for which was a cheaper to fuel alternative to the XJR

It drives absolutely lovely even if it doesn't have the power of the Jag. I'd forgotten how pleasant a Xantia can be to drive. 175 miles done so far after brimming the tank. Not even used 1/4 of a tank yet. Polar opposite to the Jag! Took 100 miles before the needle even moved off full.