By Classic Yorkshire correspondent Tony Lofthouse
Let’s be frank the racy Peugeot RCZ is a real ‘head-turner’, from its sweeping lines to its unique ‘double-bubble’ glass roof.
The coupe, arguably a ‘left field’ alternative to the more popular Audi TT, was launched in 2010.
It offers a sporty driving experience, low running costs and prices that undercut the TT.
Petrol models come with a 1.6 litre turbocharged engine giving 156, 197 and 270bhp. A two-litre diesel engine alternative is capable of reaching a punchy 163bhp.
Pick of the range is the Peugeot RCZ-R, launched in 2013, and developed by Peugeot Sport. Their expertise made the ‘R’ extremely agile, smooth and with a tremendous road grip.
In terms of performance, it gives the likes of the TT, VW Scirocco and BMW 2-Series a real run for their money.
A modified version of the RCZ also achieved touring car success, including class victories at the Nurburgring 24 Hours endurance race.
On the negative side, the RCZ is prone to electrical issues and is tricky to work on under the bonnet.
Despite being one of the best looking Peugeots ever made, it was pulled from production after a big drop in sales from 2013. In six years, 67,900 RCZs were built and roughly a fifth of these made it onto UK roads.
The line-up started at £19,900 for the 156bhp Sport and low mileage examples can be picked up for less than £10,000. At the top end, the R version cost £31,995 at its launch. Only 300 UK-registered R models were sold here and second hand prices are around half its original price.
It’s a car that’s becoming a bit of a rarity but one that looks a future classic in the making.