2002 Sx Suspension Options

[lrochfort]

Hello Ladies and Gents,

 

I've decided I'm going to buy my very first Citroen, and it's going to be a Mark 1 C5 diesel estate.

 

Tomorrow I'm going to see a 2002 SX 2.0 HDi estate with 92,000 miles and full Citroen service history. I like the sound of the car because of the FSH, but I'm wondering if I'm missing out on something by not getting the Exclusive 2.2 diesel.

 

My main concern is that I understand the Exclusive has additional suspension spheres to control body roll, but the SX does not.

 

Is that correct, and if so, should I care?

 

Many thanks,

Laurence.

[paul.h]

Welcome to the forum.

 

I would not worry about the 2 extra spheres underneath. On the 2001 to 2004 model 2.0 hdi there are 2 power options - 90 and 110 bhp but for such a heavy car you would want the 110 bhp. The 110 bhp has the best fuel economy so I do not understand why the 90 bhp was made. Ideally you should look at both cars if you have the choice. If you are going to use the car for towing a caravan the 2.2 hdi is heavier - estate kerb weight not inc 75 kg for driver - 90/110 bhp 2.0 hdi 1423 / 1438 kg - 2.2 hdi 136 bhp 1518 kg.

 

The exclusive will have extra things such as rear parking sensors and esp which may make it a better car but being the 2.2 hdi it will use a bit more fuel 45 vs 50 mpg with higher car tax (CO2  - 90 /110 bhp 155/149 - 2.2 hdi 169 g/km giving £180 / 145 / 205) and it also has an exhaust particulate filter which needs servicing at about 70k miles costing a few £100 (dpf replacement/cleaning and eolys fluid topping up plus ecu reset). It is also possible the sx may not have air con.

 

On the C5 Technical Section there is a pinned post of Common Problems to be aware of but you should ensure everything works and there are no leaks on the suspension.

[lrochfort]

Welcome to the forum.

 

I would not worry about the 2 extra spheres underneath. On the 2001 to 2004 model 2.0 hdi there are 2 power options - 90 and 110 bhp but for such a heavy car you would want the 110 bhp. The 110 bhp has the best fuel economy so I do not understand why the 90 bhp was made. Ideally you should look at both cars if you have the choice. If you are going to use the car for towing a caravan the 2.2 hdi is heavier - estate kerb weight not inc 75 kg for driver - 90/110 bhp 2.0 hdi 1423 / 1438 kg - 2.2 hdi 136 bhp 1518 kg.

 

The exclusive will have extra things such as rear parking sensors and esp which may make it a better car but being the 2.2 hdi it will use a bit more fuel 45 vs 50 mpg with higher car tax (CO2  - 90 /110 bhp 155/149 - 2.2 hdi 169 g/km giving £180 / 145 / 205) and it also has an exhaust particulate filter which needs servicing at about 70k miles costing a few £100 (dpf replacement/cleaning and eolys fluid topping up plus ecu reset). It is also possible the sx may not have air con.

 

On the C5 Technical Section there is a pinned post of Common Problems to be aware of but you should ensure everything works and there are no leaks on the suspension.

 

Thanks for the comprehensive answer, Paul.

 

What's the best way for me to find out if the engine is 90 or 110bhp?

 

There are a couple of Exclusives I could look at. How important is the FSH given the comparative complexity of the suspension?

Edited February 1, 2015 by lrochfort

[Johndouglas]

Look at the VIN. If it contains the sequence RHY, it's a 90BHP. If the sequence is RHX, then it's a 110HP. The 110 engine is fitted with an intercooler, the 90 isn't. The power difference between the two is very noticeable.

 

FSH is most important (IMHO) but not necessarily from a main dealer. I've recently sold a 2002 Xsara and a 2005 C5 both with a full service history, and yet they have rarely been near a garage since they were new.

[lrochfort]

Thanks for your answers everybody. I'm looking at a couple of 2.0 diesels so will keep this information in mind.

[paul.h]

It is worth bearing in mind, if you do not need an estate, the hatchback still has a large boot and the internal space for people is the same. The hatchback is probably a lower price and there may be more available.