The Peugeot 505 is a large, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sedan manufactured by the French automaker Peugeot between 1979 and 1996. The 505 (551A) 2.2 i, produced from 1986 to 1993, represents a refinement of the original 505, offering a balance of comfort, performance, and practicality. While never officially sold in the United States, the 505 gained a reputation as a durable and sophisticated vehicle, particularly popular in Europe and other international markets. It served as Peugeot’s flagship sedan during its production run, competing with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W124 and BMW E30.
Peugeot 505 (551A) 2.2 i: A Detailed Overview
The 505 was designed as a successor to the Peugeot 504, addressing the need for a more modern and spacious sedan. The 551A designation refers to a specific iteration of the 505, characterized by its 2.2-liter inline-four engine. This model aimed to provide a more accessible entry point into the 505 range while still delivering a respectable level of performance and refinement. The 505, in general, was lauded for its robust construction and independent rear suspension, offering a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics for its time.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 505 (551A) 2.2 i is a 2.2-liter (2165 cm3 or 132.12 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated 851X ZDJL, produces 114 horsepower (Hp) at 5000 rpm and 174 Newton-meters (128.34 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine utilizes a single-point fuel injection system, a common technology for the era, and a compression ratio of 8.8:1. Power delivery is relatively smooth, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.8 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.2 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 505 (551A) is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body lines are characterized by a long hood, a relatively upright cabin, and a cleanly styled rear end. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers and provides a trunk capacity of 485 liters (17.13 cu. ft.). The 505’s interior was designed with comfort in mind, featuring supportive seats and a well-laid-out dashboard.
Safety features for the time included hydraulic disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as a standard feature. Power steering was also included, enhancing maneuverability. The 505’s independent rear suspension contributed to a comfortable ride and improved handling. The vehicle rides on 185/65 HR14 tires. The 505’s design prioritized practicality and durability, making it a reliable and comfortable choice for everyday use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 505 |
| Generation | 505 (551A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i (114 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| 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 | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 174 Nm @ 3500 rpm (128.34 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 851X ZDJL |
| Engine displacement | 2165 cm3 (132.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 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 track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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), Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 HR14 |
The Peugeot 505 (551A) 2.2 i represents a significant vehicle in Peugeot’s history, offering a blend of European sophistication and practicality. While not widely available in the US market, its reputation for reliability and comfortable driving experience has ensured its continued appreciation among automotive enthusiasts.
