Citroen C4 Mk1 - any experiences/views

[ElectricSoup]

I'm looking at buying an old Mk1 Citroen C4 for a learner driver. I am thinking of going for a 1.4 or 1.6 petrol, probably the 1.6 as it's pokier and doesn't seem to be heavier on insurance than the 1.4 The car would soon be used for motorway drives to University, hence the prefencence for a bit more poke. Insurance grouping is the main reason for the choice of the C4, it's relatively low at 9/10 for the smaller engined petrol models in most specs (I know, the obvious choice is a Ford Focus, but Son won't consider one of those, the blithering idiot).

Does anyone have any experience of these cars, in 1.4 or 1.6 petorl format? Any common faults, things to look out for? Are they decently reliable or are they prone to fatal failures at the this age (they're all 2004-08 so all pretty old by now).

Not interested in diesel due to possible ULEZ restrictions.

Thanks for any pointers.

[mcmigo]

I had the 1.6 for 3 years, the funky 3 door one.

Lots to like. Comfy and different , engine was fine if a bit gutless. Light steering and brakes were a bit sharp. Only thing I would call out is relatively flimsy trim around the cabin, might be a few bits and bobs missing.

[evojam]

Good cars! parents ran a C4 2dr 1.6 for 7 years,reminded me of my old CR-X in external design,never let them down,proved very reliable,only issues were a broken front coil spring (common) and weak exhaust mounts corroding but other than that was excellent,find one thats been looked after and will make a great first car..

[epicfail]

I have had a 1.4 five door from new in 2005, just done 170k.

Other than a the usual service items it hasn't needed much. Looks a bit tatty inside and out (it's had a hard life) but just passed another mot with not trouble.

It's a bit slow but it grips well and I can chuck it around on the crappy roads without worrying too much.

Maybe I have been lucky - but it's been great, will be sad when it finally gives up.