The Peugeot 505 is a large, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive executive car manufactured by Peugeot between 1979 and 1996. The 505 (551A) 2.0, produced from 1985 to 1986, represents a mid-cycle iteration of the original 505 series. While not officially sold in the United States, the 505 was a significant vehicle in the European market, known for its blend of comfort, performance, and sophisticated engineering. It served as Peugeot’s flagship sedan during a period of considerable automotive innovation.
The Peugeot 505 (551A) 2.0: A Detailed Overview
The 505 was designed as a replacement for the Peugeot 504, building upon its predecessor’s reputation for durability and refinement. The 551A designation specifically refers to the model produced between 1985 and 1986, equipped with a 2.0-liter engine. This version aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate power for comfortable cruising and everyday driving. The 505, in general, was positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W123 and BMW E28, offering a more affordable alternative with a distinctly French character.
Engine & Performance
The 505 (551A) 2.0 is powered by a 1,971 cc (120.28 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine, designated the 106E XN1A. This naturally aspirated engine produces 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 181 Nm (133.5 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,000 rpm. Power per liter is rated at 49.7 hp/l. The engine utilizes a carburetor fuel injection system, a common technology for the era. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
Performance figures for the 505 (551A) 2.0 include a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 12.2 seconds, and a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 12.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 168 km/h (104.39 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 13.3 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.2 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is rated at 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) combined, with 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg) in urban conditions and 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 505 (551A) is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body is characterized by clean lines, a relatively long wheelbase (2745 mm / 108.07 in), and a spacious interior. The vehicle measures 4580 mm (180.31 in) in length, 1735 mm (68.31 in) in width, and 1440 mm (56.69 in) in height.
Inside, the 505 offers seating for five passengers and a trunk capacity of 485 liters (17.13 cu. ft.). Features for this model year, while not as extensive as modern vehicles, included hydraulic power steering and an anti-lock braking system (ABS), which was becoming increasingly common in the mid-1980s. The suspension utilizes coil springs on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride. The 505’s design prioritized practicality and durability, with a focus on providing a comfortable and reliable driving experience. The fuel tank capacity is 70 liters (18.49 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 505 |
| Generation | 505 (551A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (98 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 181 Nm @ 3000 rpm (133.5 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 106E XN1A |
| Engine displacement | 1971 cm3 (120.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 485 l (17.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm (108.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 HR 14 |
The Peugeot 505 (551A) 2.0, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of comfort, reliability, and style for its time. It remains a popular classic car among enthusiasts, appreciated for its distinctive design and robust engineering.
