The Peugeot 306, produced between 1993 and 1997, was a small family car representing Peugeot’s entry into the increasingly competitive C-segment hatchback market. The 1.9 DT variant, powered by a turbocharged diesel engine producing 90 horsepower, occupied a middle ground within the 306 range, offering a balance between fuel economy and reasonable performance. This model was particularly popular in European markets where diesel engines were favored for their efficiency and lower running costs. It was built on the 7A/C platform, shared with the Citroën Xantia and other Peugeot models of the era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 |
| Generation | 306 Hatchback (7A/C) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 DT (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 2250 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D8A XUD9TE |
| Engine displacement | 1905 cm3 (116.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1120 kg (2469.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 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 | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1429 mm (56.26 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 | Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| 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 | 185/60 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 306 1.9 DT was the D8A XUD9TE engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was a mainstay of Peugeot and Citroën vehicles throughout the 1990s. It featured precombustion chamber injection, a system where fuel is injected into a small chamber within the cylinder head, promoting more complete combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output, bringing it to 90 horsepower. The engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design, operating two valves per cylinder. The 306 1.9 DT was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and suitability for the engine’s torque characteristics. The transmission was a standard front-wheel-drive configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 306 1.9 DT offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline-powered siblings. While not particularly quick – 0-60 mph took around 11.8 seconds – it provided ample torque from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline versions, the 1.9 DT prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for maximizing efficiency, resulting in a relaxed cruising experience. The handling was typical of front-wheel-drive hatchbacks of the era – safe and predictable, but not particularly sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9 DT trim level generally sat in the mid-range of the 306 lineup. Standard equipment typically included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included electric windows, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The 306 offered a reasonable level of practicality, with a spacious interior for its size and a versatile hatchback configuration. The trunk offered 338 liters of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 637 liters when folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The 306 1.9 DT utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of trailing arms, while the rear employed a wishbone setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly sophisticated. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The 306’s suspension was tuned for comfort and practicality, rather than outright performance. Stabilizer bars were fitted to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 306 1.9 DT was well-received in European markets, particularly by drivers seeking a fuel-efficient and reliable family car. Critics praised its torque and low running costs, but noted its lack of outright performance compared to gasoline alternatives. Compared to the 1.6-liter gasoline version, the 1.9 DT offered significantly better fuel economy, but acceleration was slower. The 2.0-liter gasoline models provided more power, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 1.9 DT represented a sensible compromise for drivers prioritizing practicality and economy.
Legacy
The Peugeot 306 1.9 DT has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable vehicle. The XUD9TE engine is known for its longevity, provided it is properly maintained. Today, these cars are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors, particularly those interested in classic European diesels. While finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, the 306 1.9 DT remains a testament to Peugeot’s engineering prowess and a popular choice for those seeking a practical and economical classic car.
