The Peugeot 306, specifically the 1.6-liter (89 horsepower) hatchback produced between 1993 and 1997, represented a key entry point into the popular 306 range. Part of the 7A/C generation, this variant was designed to offer affordable and practical transportation within the European market. It occupied a crucial position in the lineup, serving as the base model for buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability over outright performance. While more powerful engine options and trim levels existed, the 1.6L offered a balance of cost and functionality that appealed to a broad customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 |
| Generation | 306 Hatchback (7A/C) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (89 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 127.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 89 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 3000 rpm (99.57 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | NFZ TU5JP |
| Engine displacement | 1587 cm3 (96.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1060 kg (2336.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 338 l (11.94 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 637 l (22.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 3995 mm (157.28 in.) |
| Width | 1692 mm (66.61 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Rear track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this 306 variant is the NFZ TU5JP engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was a mainstay of Peugeot and Citroën vehicles throughout the 1990s. It features a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a reasonable balance between fuel efficiency and performance for its time. The engine’s 89 horsepower output at 5600 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm were typical figures for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement in the early to mid-1990s. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, although an automatic transmission option was also available, albeit less common.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter 306 offered a predictable and undemanding driving experience. Acceleration was modest, taking around 12.9 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine felt relatively strained at higher speeds, and overtaking required careful planning. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter XSi or the diesel variants, the 1.6 felt noticeably slower. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to nimble handling, particularly in urban environments. The five-speed manual gearbox provided adequate control, although the gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy rather than outright performance. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, further diminished acceleration and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter 306 typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively spartan design. Optional extras, such as air conditioning, electric windows, and alloy wheels, were available, but often added significantly to the vehicle’s price. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but the 1.6L generally represented the entry-level offering.
Chassis & Braking
The 306’s chassis featured independent front suspension with wishbones and a trailing arm rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. Braking was typically accomplished with 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 steering was rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive control. The relatively lightweight nature of the 1.6-liter model contributed to its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6-liter 306 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter XSi, the 1.6 offered significantly less power and excitement. However, it was more economical to run and maintain. The diesel variants offered even better fuel economy, but at the expense of refinement. The 1.6L appealed to buyers who prioritized value and practicality over performance.
Legacy
The Peugeot 306 1.6L, while not the most exciting variant in the range, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The TU5JP engine is known for its longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. The 306 as a whole established Peugeot as a major player in the European hatchback market. In the used car market, the 1.6-liter models are often sought after for their affordability and simplicity. While they may not offer the performance of higher-spec models, they represent a cost-effective and practical option for those seeking a classic 1990s hatchback.
