The Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTi (120 Hp): A European Compact Convertible
The Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) represents a significant offering from the French automaker in the compact coupe-cabriolet segment. Launched in 2006 as a successor to the highly successful 206 CC, the 207 CC continued Peugeot’s tradition of bringing affordable, stylish open-top motoring to the masses. This generation, produced from 2006 to 2009, was a staple in the European market, where its blend of everyday practicality, fuel efficiency, and the undeniable appeal of a retractable hardtop made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and engaging driving experience. While never officially sold in the United States, the 207 CC exemplifies a distinct European automotive trend, offering a unique combination of body styles in a single vehicle, transforming from a snug coupe to an airy convertible with the press of a button. Its 1.6-liter VTi engine, developed in collaboration with BMW, was a modern powertrain for its time, providing a balanced mix of performance and economy for its intended urban and touring roles.
Engine and Performance: Powering the Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTi (120 Hp)
Under the hood, the Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) featured a 1.6-liter (1598 cm3 or 97.52 cubic inches) naturally aspirated inline four-cylinder engine. This powerplant, designated with the engine code 5FW EP6, was a product of the PSA Group and BMW collaboration, known as the Prince engine family. It incorporated DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) with VVT (Variable Valve Timing), contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. The engine was configured for multi-port manifold injection, a common and reliable fuel delivery system for its era.
With a compression ratio of 11:1, the engine delivered a respectable 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 75.1 HP/l. Torque figures stood at 118.01 lb.-ft. (160 Nm) peaking at 4250 rpm. This power was channeled to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, a common setup for compact cars in Europe prioritizing driver engagement and efficiency.
In terms of performance, the 207 CC 1.6 VTi was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a reasonable 10.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 10.7 seconds), reaching a top speed of 124.27 mph (200 km/h). While not a performance-oriented sports car, these figures were more than adequate for its segment, allowing for comfortable highway cruising and agile urban maneuverability. Fuel efficiency was a strong suit for the 1.6 VTi, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 35.6 US mpg (6.6 l/100 km). Urban driving yielded 26.7 US mpg (8.8 l/100 km), while extra-urban conditions saw an impressive 44.4 US mpg (5.3 l/100 km). With CO2 emissions of 155 g/km, it met the Euro 4 emission standard, reflecting its relatively clean operation for the mid-2000s.
Design and Features: The Convertible Experience
The defining characteristic of the Peugeot 207 CC was its coupe-cabriolet body type, featuring a sophisticated two-piece retractable hardtop. This design allowed owners to enjoy the security and refinement of a fixed-roof coupe and the exhilaration of an open-air convertible, all in one vehicle. The transformation process was fully automatic, a key selling point that offered convenience and technological appeal.
Measuring 158.94 inches (4037 mm) in length, 68.82 inches (1748 mm) in width, and 55 inches (1397 mm) in height, the 207 CC maintained a compact footprint ideal for crowded European city streets. Its wheelbase of 100 inches (2540 mm) contributed to a stable ride quality. The design language was distinctly Peugeot, with a bold front grille, swept-back headlights, and a sleek profile that was accentuated whether the roof was up or down.
Inside, the 207 CC offered a 2+2 seating configuration, meaning two comfortable front seats and two smaller rear seats suitable primarily for children or short trips. Trunk space varied significantly depending on the roof’s position: a minimum of 6.6 cubic feet (187 liters) with the roof stowed, expanding to a generous 15.86 cubic feet (449 liters) when the roof was up, making it surprisingly practical for a convertible. Safety features for its time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and the car was built with structural reinforcements to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, aiming to provide occupant protection in the event of a rollover. The car rode on 195/55 R16 tires with 16-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Technical Specifications: Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTi (120 Hp)
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| General Information | |
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 207 |
| Generation | 207 CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) |
| Production Start | 2006 |
| Production End | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Body Type | Coupe – Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 Emissions | 155 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 124.27 mph (200 km/h) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp (88.8 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm (118.3 Nm/tonne) |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power Per Liter | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 118.01 lb.-ft. (160 Nm) @ 4250 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FW EP6 |
| Engine Displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.03 in. (77 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.38 in. (85.8 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 11:1 |
| Valves Per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVT |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 2980.65 lbs. (1352 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 3791.95 lbs. (1720 kg) |
| Max Load | 811.3 lbs. (368 kg) |
| Trunk Space (Minimum) | 6.6 cu. ft. (187 l) |
| Trunk Space (Maximum) | 15.86 cu. ft. (449 l) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.21 US gal (50 l) |
| Permitted Trailer Load with Brakes (12%) | 2292.81 lbs. (1040 kg) |
| Permitted Trailer Load without Brakes | 1322.77 lbs. (600 kg) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 158.94 in. (4037 mm) |
| Width | 68.82 in. (1748 mm) |
| Width with Mirrors Folded | 71.57 in. (1818 mm) |
| Width Including Mirrors | 77.64 in. (1972 mm) |
| Height | 55 in. (1397 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 100 in. (2540 mm) |
| Front Track | 57.83 in. (1469 mm) |
| Rear Track | 57.87 in. (1470 mm) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 35.43 ft. (10.8 m) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front-wheel drive, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of Gears / Gearbox Type | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear Suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tire Size | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 16 inches |
Legacy and Market Impact in Europe
The Peugeot 207 CC, and specifically the 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) variant, carved out a significant niche in the European automotive landscape during its production run from 2006 to 2009. It followed in the footsteps of the immensely popular 206 CC, which virtually pioneered the mass-market compact coupe-cabriolet segment. The 207 CC built upon this success by offering improved refinement, a more modern interior, and enhanced safety features, while retaining the core appeal of an affordable, stylish convertible with the practicality of a hardtop.
Its primary competitors in the European market included other compact coupe-cabriolets such as the Opel Tigra TwinTop, the Nissan Micra C+C, and the Mitsubishi Colt CZC. While some rivals offered slightly different styling or engine options, the 207 CC consistently stood out for its distinctive Peugeot design language, its well-regarded ride comfort, and the smooth operation of its retractable roof mechanism. It also faced competition from more conventional compact hatchbacks and sedans, but its unique body style offered a compelling alternative for buyers desiring something beyond the ordinary.
The Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) played a crucial role in cementing Peugeot’s reputation as a leader in the convertible market, demonstrating their ability to deliver complex retractable hardtop technology in a compact and accessible package. Its success contributed to the broader trend of coupe-cabriolets across various segments in Europe during the 2000s. While not a performance icon, its balanced powertrain, comfortable suspension (McPherson struts at the front and a semi-independent coil spring setup at the rear), and responsive rack-and-pinion steering made it an enjoyable car for daily commuting and weekend excursions alike. Its enduring legacy is that of a charming, practical, and affordable entry into the world of open-top motoring, a car that perfectly encapsulated the “joie de vivre” spirit often associated with French automotive design. Even after production ceased, the 207 CC remained a popular used car choice for those seeking a stylish, economical, and versatile convertible experience in Europe.
