Renault 19 RT

[Shrimper]

Hi all, I'm after a bit of advice. I'm currently in the process of selling my 106 Quicksilver and downgrading to save a bit of money. I'm a student for another 6 months or so, and require a reliable car that is comfortable doing lots of motorway miles and towing. Although I love the 106, its high mileage is starting to bite me with replacement bits and so its time for it to go.

I've seen a 19 RT in pretty good nick at a good price, and its only done 74k. My insurance policy is pretty much a straight swap (1.4 petrol to 1.8 turbo diesel, didnt expect that) and the turbo diesel seems ideal for the mileage im doing.

I cant seem to find much about them on the net, has anybody ever owned one or know much about them to offer me a bit of advice? The car has loads of T+T, but the key thing for me is not to have to spend much on it in the next 6 months or so, until I can shift it on and get something more long term.

Cheers in advance, Sam

[Bugeyeandy]

I had a 19 16v when it was almost new.
I remember it as being very unreliable even back then so god only knows what one would be like now 15 years or more later.
I know there aren't many about because of their low value with any fault rendering them scrap and not worth repairing. Unless you're being given it i'd think twice.
The do like to rust as well, mine had a rusty bonnet where the scoop was at only 4 years old.

On the plus side, it handled well. It was quite sylish in its day and it was a comfy (if noisy) motor.

[Shrimper]

Thanks, have spoken to the guy on the phone and he says he hasnt noticed any rust, and hes a mechanic. Going to go have a look 2moro evening as I'm passing, will make sure to take a bloody good torch with me! Thanks for advice Bugeye, Ill let you know what the outcome is. Anyone else have any experience with 'em??

[mrsxllifts]

I had a k reg one a few years back and it was fine except when the cam belt broke on the day I sold it! Had a few little things like the dipped headlight switch but nothing that a visit to the scrap yard couldn't sort out.

[Shrimper]

Thanks Mrs XL! Had a look at the car this evening, it appears to have been kept pretty much immaculate, and the mechanic who has had it for the last couple of months works at a renault specialist. HPi clear, no rust whatsoever that I could find (and I laid in a lot of puddles looking), drove it round the block and all fine. Seems to be the right car for the right price for me at the moment, so hopefully I'll be picking it up at the weekend!

I might even post some pics in the readers cars section! Cheers, Sam