Drivers are just learning about this attractive and powerful used sportscar for under £2k

A motoring expert has suggested a long-forgotten Peugeot could be the ideal second-hand petrol and diesel car with a price tag of under £2,000. Car expert Justin Ballard, speaking on YouTube channel ‘Cars with JB’, revealed the Peugeot RCZ could be an ideal pick for those searching the market.

The RCZ looks stunning from the outside, with experts praising the models’ iconic “double bubble roof”. However, the model packs a punch for petrolheads with a 1.6 litre engine producing a top speed of 155mph. Models can be picked up for just a couple of grand, making it a stylish pick for those on a budget.

Speaking on YouTube, Justin said: “We have the incredibly rogue Peugeot RCZ, a car that started life as a concept at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 2007 and received so much love and attention that Peugeot felt compelled to turn it into a real production car during a period when they weren't really making anything particularly inspiring.

“In base spec, these came with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that makes 156bhp, taking it to 60mph in eight seconds and they are front-wheel drive as well, so they're kind of like a cheap but fast hot hatchback that looks like a sports car.

"I wouldn't say the interiors are particularly pretty but outside they are quite striking with that double bubble roof being reminiscent of race cars.

"It looks like a rear-wheel drive car, but reviews do give them props for good hot hatchback-style handling, which makes sense given Peugeot's history. To get into one you need to spend around £2,000 but £5,000 will get you a 2011 example with 50,000 miles on the clock.”

According to road test experts at Parkers, base RCZ models are capable of 38mpg but this can rise to 54mpg depending on the trim and engine. Higher-end models can also reach 0-60mph in just 5.7 seconds with its engine producing up to 266bhp.

Parkers praised the model for being affordable and fun to drive but warned that there were still some question marks over reliability.

Justin also stressed road users looking at the RCZ for their next motor should consider splashing out for the more powerful version.

Justin warned: “That 1.6 engine can be problematic, owners do suggest on the forums going for the 2.0-litre model as the better bet.”