The 307CC follows on the heels of the 206CC - the first affordable convertible with a metal folding roof (previously only Mercedes-Benz and Lexus had them). It's a nifty selling point, but performance and handling suffer because of the added weight. If you're torn between a 206CC or a 307CC then the decision must come from consideration for your passengers - you can get adults in the back of a 307. Equipment levels are quite generous, and a fully loaded one will feel like a lot of car for the money when compared to convertible rivals from executive manufacturers.

2003 Peugeot 307 CC

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2003 Peugeot 307 CC
  • Horsepower: 200@0
  • Torque: 3500
  • Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Peugeot's adventurous attack to the retractable roof coupe market has been very successful. Last year, some 100,000 units of 206CC found buyers. In other words, it is by far the best selling retractable roof car in the world. No wonder many other car makers are following its footprints. Of course, being the trend setter, Peugeot is not going to rest on its laurel. It believes beside the 206CC there is also a big market for a larger car. The 206CC is cramped, only capable of taking 2 persons and a dog. Its driving position is flawed while interior quality and comfort stays at mini car level. In contrast, 307CC could provide a decent space and comfort for four people.

Design

The roof of 206CC is made by French coachbuilder Heuliez, but this time 307CC employs German supplier Car Top Systems (CTS) instead, probably not satisfied with the quality problems encountered in 206CC. If you remember, CTS is the 50-50 joint venture between Porsche and Mercedes, and has been supplying countless of good roof systems to Boxster, 911 Cabriolet, Targa, Mercedes SLK, SL and even Ferrari 360 Spider. Therefore hopefully the retractable roof of 307CC will be perfect from the beginning.

In 25 seconds, the roof folds down into the boot and still leaves a lot of storage space. The cabin is far more satisfying than the little sister's. Front seats are spacious while rear seats can accommodate average-size adults with little pain. Like the standard 307, the dashboard is stylish and the center console is covered with a metal-effect trim. The CC adds even more style - metallic pedals and air vents, white dials with chromed rims, light-color full leather trim... what 206CC lacks is fully complimented in the 307CC.

But not the dynamic aspect. Due to the roof and the necessary chassis stiffening, the CC weighs a hefty 1490kg or 210kg more than the hatchback. Although Peugeot equips it with either a 180hp 2.0-litre VVT engine (from 206RC) or a 138hp 2.0-litre (from 307XSi), performance is more leisure than spirited. Even in the 180hp form, 0-60mph takes a long 9.5 seconds. As a result, 307CC is best suited to a leisure driving style. In this way, you will enjoy its fine steering, predictable handling, supple ride and fresh air. Push it harder and the extra weight will enter the scene - slower response, more roll, understeer earlier... well, this is not a BMW 3-series Convertible, and it is also far far cheaper.