The Peugeot 505 (551A) 2.2 Turbo Injection, produced between 1984 and 1988, represents a high-performance variant of Peugeot’s executive car lineage. Positioned above the 504, the 505 aimed to compete with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W123 and BMW E28, offering a blend of French comfort, sophisticated engineering, and, in the case of the 2.2 Turbo Injection, genuine sporting performance. While never achieving the same sales volume as its German rivals in the US market (it was only officially sold from 1985-1989), the 505 gained a reputation for durability and a unique driving experience, particularly among enthusiasts. The 551A designation refers to the specific series within the 505 range, denoting features and engine options available during that production period. This model, with its turbocharged 2.2-liter engine, was the flagship performance offering.
Peugeot 505: A Legacy of French Engineering
The 505 was a significant departure from its predecessor, the 504, featuring a more modern and angular design penned by Pininfarina. It represented Peugeot’s commitment to building a world-class executive car, incorporating advanced features for its time. The 505 was initially launched in Europe in 1978, with the 2.2 Turbo Injection arriving later in the production run as a premium offering. The car’s design prioritized passenger comfort and a refined driving experience, characteristics typical of French automotive engineering. The 505 was available in various body styles, including a sedan, station wagon (Familiale), and a coupe (though the coupe was less common). The 551A series saw refinements to the interior and exterior, along with improvements to the engine management system.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 505 2.2 Turbo Injection is the 176B N9TE engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant equipped with a turbocharger and fuel injection. This configuration allowed it to produce 155 horsepower, a substantial figure for the mid-1980s, and provided a noticeable performance boost over the naturally aspirated versions of the 505. The turbocharger significantly increased the engine’s torque output, resulting in strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine’s design incorporated features like a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, contributing to its durability.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, although an automatic transmission was also available. The manual gearbox was favored by enthusiasts for its precise shift quality and ability to fully exploit the engine’s performance potential. The 505’s suspension system, featuring independent front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle, was tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. While not a dedicated sports car, the 2.2 Turbo Injection offered a balanced and engaging driving experience, capable of both relaxed long-distance cruising and spirited driving on winding roads. The turbocharger introduces a degree of turbo lag, typical of systems from that era, but once spooled up, it delivers a strong surge of power.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 505 551A sedan boasts a classic, understated design. The body lines are characterized by sharp angles and a relatively low-slung profile. Pininfarina’s influence is evident in the car’s elegant proportions and attention to detail. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, featuring comfortable seats and a functional dashboard layout.
Features included power-assisted steering, disc brakes on all four wheels, and a comprehensive instrument panel. The 505 2.2 Turbo Injection often came equipped with additional features such as electric windows, central locking, and a sunroof. Safety features, while not as advanced as those found in modern vehicles, included a robust chassis structure and effective braking system. The car’s build quality was generally considered to be high, contributing to its longevity and reliability. The 505’s design prioritized practicality and comfort, making it a suitable vehicle for both family use and long-distance travel. The rear seats offer ample legroom, and the trunk provides a generous amount of cargo space. The overall aesthetic of the 505 reflects the design trends of the 1980s, with a focus on clean lines and a sophisticated appearance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 505 |
| Generation | 505 (551A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 Turbo Injection (155 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1984 |
| End of production | 1988 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 155 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | 176B N9TE |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
The Peugeot 505 2.2 Turbo Injection, while not a mainstream success in the United States, remains a respected and sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts. Its combination of French flair, robust engineering, and turbocharged performance makes it a unique and rewarding classic car. The 505 represents a high point in Peugeot’s history, showcasing the company’s ability to produce sophisticated and well-engineered automobiles. Its enduring appeal lies in its distinctive character and the enjoyable driving experience it provides, setting it apart from more common executive cars of the era.
