The Peugeot 306 Break 1.9D, produced between 1998 and 2002, represents a practical and economical variant within the broader 306 range. As a station wagon (estate) version of the popular 306, the 1.9D aimed to provide a spacious and fuel-efficient option for families and those requiring increased cargo capacity. This particular model, designated as the 7E series, occupied the lower to mid-range of the 306 Break lineup, prioritizing affordability and running costs over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where compact estates were a significant segment of the automotive market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 |
| Generation | 306 Break (7E) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9d (69 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 17 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.5 kg/Hp, 60.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 109.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 69 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 36.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 2500 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | WJY DW8B |
| Engine displacement | 1868 cm3 (113.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.2 mm (3.24 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 23:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1140 kg (2513.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 442 l (15.61 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1512 l (53.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4338 mm (170.79 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1423-1433 mm (56.02 – 56.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1424-1432 mm (56.06 – 56.38 in.) |
| Front overhang | 815 mm (32.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 943 mm (37.13 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 306 Break 1.9D is powered by the WJY DW8B engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. The DW8 engine family was a mainstay of Peugeot and Citroën vehicles for many years, known for its robustness and relatively simple design. The WJY variant featured a diesel common rail fuel injection system, a significant upgrade over earlier indirect injection systems. This technology allowed for more precise fuel delivery, resulting in improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and quieter operation. The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel economy rather than providing sporty acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9D engine produces 69 horsepower and 92.2 lb-ft of torque. This translates to modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 17 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 100 mph. The focus is on usability and economy rather than speed. The engine delivers its peak torque at 2500 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for everyday driving and carrying loads. However, it can feel strained when climbing hills or overtaking at higher speeds. Compared to the more powerful petrol (gasoline) versions of the 306, such as the 2.0L 16V, the 1.9D offers significantly less performance. The manual transmission, while efficient, has a relatively long throw and isn’t particularly engaging. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride, but it can feel somewhat wallowy when cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9D Break typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a radio/cassette player. Higher trim levels, such as the XSi or GLX, offered more luxurious features, but these were rarely paired with the 1.9D engine. The 306 Break prioritized practicality, so even base models offered a generous amount of space for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The 306 Break 1.9D utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent wishbones, while the rear suspension employs a trailing arm setup. The braking system features disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The suspension setup is geared towards comfort and stability, providing a decent ride quality on various road surfaces. The relatively lightweight nature of the vehicle helps to compensate for the modest engine power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 306 Break 1.9D was well-received in the European market as an affordable and economical estate car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior. However, its lack of performance was often noted. Compared to other 1.9-liter diesel engines available at the time, the DW8B offered a good balance of fuel economy and reliability. The 1.9D was often seen as a more sensible alternative to the more expensive and powerful petrol versions of the 306. It competed with other compact estates such as the Renault 19 Estate and the Ford Escort Estate.
Legacy
The Peugeot 306 1.9D, and the DW8 engine family in general, have a reputation for being durable and relatively easy to maintain. While not known for their high performance, these engines can reliably achieve high mileage with proper maintenance. Today, the 306 Break 1.9D is a relatively affordable used car, appealing to those seeking a practical and economical vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, and the simple mechanical design makes it accessible to amateur mechanics. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older vehicles, such as rust and wear and tear on suspension components.
