Experiences with Ford Bantam and/or Renault Modus

Idiosyncratic

Idiosyncratic

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I want to hear your opinions and experiences... I have the opportunity to acquire a late 1990s (think it's 1999) Ford Bantam or a Renault Modus (2006ish) for about the same money. Need a lighter vehicle that'll be reliable. Both have about 150 000 km on the clock. I hear a lot of horror stories about Renault and bits and bobs breaking, but some folks say it's overhyped. I understand parts are more expensive than with the Bantam? At the same time, the Renault is newer and more comfortable. I like to service and fix tiny issues myself, and this is easily accomplished with the Ford, not so much with the Renault. The Renault is more comfortable though, and the one I'm looking at has some neat gadgets and leather seats.

Want to hear of others' experiences!
 
I am afraid you are going to hear the usual Renault horror stories, some true from experience and some hearsay, If the price is right the Renault will be better value for money, apparently things have become much better these days with Renault service and parts and you can also get parts at Goldwagen although I think it will be for the more popular models.
 
I would go for the Renault, little things can and will break, but as long as you not stranded - you will need to put up with that. Renault make cheap but reliable cars, very seldom do i see a renault on the side of the road - in fact never. You dont want a bantam...
 
I had a Bantam. One of the most cost effective vehicles in terms of parts and repairs ever made.

I remember doing a complete cylinder head gasket for under R4K.
 
neilronaldson said:
I would go for the Renault, little things can and will break, but as long as you not stranded - you will need to put up with that. Renault make cheap but reliable cars, very seldom do i see a renault on the side of the road - in fact never. You dont want a bantam...
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What's wrong with a Bantam?
 
I will test drive both for a couple of KM's and do I full check on the vehicle then make a decision on the one you feel most comfortable with. Personally I would go with the Bantam if those are the only options you have.
 
Idiosyncratic said:
I want to hear your opinions and experiences... I have the opportunity to acquire a late 1990s (think it's 1999) Ford Bantam or a Renault Modus (2006ish) for about the same money. Need a lighter vehicle that'll be reliable. Both have about 150 000 km on the clock. I hear a lot of horror stories about Renault and bits and bobs breaking, but some folks say it's overhyped. I understand parts are more expensive than with the Bantam? At the same time, the Renault is newer and more comfortable. I like to service and fix tiny issues myself, and this is easily accomplished with the Ford, not so much with the Renault. The Renault is more comfortable though, and the one I'm looking at has some neat gadgets and leather seats.

Want to hear of others' experiences!
Click to expand...

Take the Bantam. Loads of them on the road still. Parts readily available and you get engine mods for them too if you that kind of guy. Renault will give you endless issues when it comes to parts. On that alone I would take the Bantam between those two.
 
Take the Bantam, my family had one in SA in 1982/3 and it was an awesome little bakkie.
 
I drove a Modus for about a year and I would buy one in a heartbeat. The engine might not blow your hair back but it is very light on fuel and the car itself is very comfortable with all the bells and whistles you need.
 
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