The Peugeot 307 1.6 (109 Hp) stands as a prominent example of a compact family car from the early 2000s, primarily targeted at the highly competitive European market. Launched in 2001, the 307 was Peugeot’s successor to the successful 306, aiming to elevate the brand’s presence in the C-segment with a focus on increased interior space, improved safety, and a more modern design. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine, offered a balanced blend of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for everyday driving across Europe.
The Peugeot 307 was a significant model for the French automaker, representing a shift towards a taller, more spacious vehicle architecture that blurred the lines between a traditional hatchback and a compact MPV. Its production spanned from 2001 to 2005 for this specific generation and powertrain, during which it garnered critical acclaim, including the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2002. While never officially sold in the United States, the 307 played a crucial role in strengthening Peugeot’s foothold in its primary European and other international markets, offering a compelling package of practicality, comfort, and French automotive flair.
Engine & Performance of the Peugeot 307 1.6 (109 Hp)
At the heart of the Peugeot 307 1.6 (109 Hp) lies the well-regarded NFU TU5JP4 engine, a 1.6-liter (1587 cm³ or 96.84 cu. in.) naturally aspirated inline-four gasoline unit. This engine was a staple across many PSA (Peugeot S.A.) vehicles of the era, known for its robustness and adequate performance for its class. It features a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, totaling 16 valves, which contributes to its efficient breathing and power delivery. Fuel is supplied via a multi-port manifold injection system, ensuring precise fuel-air mixture control.
The engine generates a peak power output of 109 horsepower (Hp) at 5750 revolutions per minute (rpm), providing a power-per-liter figure of 68.7 Hp/l. Torque is rated at 147 Newton-meters (108.42 lb.-ft.) at a respectable 3900 rpm, which offers good mid-range pulling power for daily driving. This powertrain is coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. The drivetrain architecture, with the engine mounted transversely at the front, is typical for compact cars, optimizing interior space and driving dynamics.
In terms of performance, the 307 1.6 (109 Hp) accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour (mph) in an estimated 10.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 11 seconds), and its maximum speed reaches 118.06 mph (190 km/h). While not a performance-oriented model, these figures were competitive within its segment, providing sufficient capability for highway cruising and city maneuvers. Fuel efficiency was also a key consideration for European buyers. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.2 liters per 100 kilometers, translating to approximately 32.7 US miles per gallon (mpg). Urban driving saw consumption at 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg), while extra-urban figures were more economical at 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg). The vehicle met Euro 3 emission standards, with CO2 emissions of 169 g/km.
Design & Features
The design of the Peugeot 307 marked a departure from its predecessor, adopting a taller, more rounded silhouette that was both contemporary and functional. It was offered in a versatile hatchback body type, available with either three or five doors, accommodating five occupants comfortably. This “tall car” design philosophy was aimed at maximizing interior space and improving visibility, a popular trend in European compacts at the time. The overall length of the vehicle is 165.43 inches (4202 mm), with a width of 68.11 inches (1730 mm) and a height of 59.45 inches (1510 mm). A wheelbase of 102.68 inches (2608 mm) contributed to a stable ride and generous cabin room.
Inside, the 307 offered a practical and ergonomic cabin. The elevated seating position provided a commanding view of the road, and the well-packaged interior allowed for a minimum trunk (boot) space of 12.04 cubic feet (341 liters), expandable to a substantial 46.9 cubic feet (1328 liters) with the rear seats folded down. This flexibility made the 307 a highly practical choice for families and individuals needing versatile cargo capacity.
Key features for the era included essential safety and driving aids. The vehicle was equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping control. The braking system utilized ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Steering was managed by a rack and pinion system, complemented by hydraulic power steering, providing a comfortable and responsive driving experience. The suspension setup consisted of a wishbone design at the front and a trailing arm system at the rear, tuned for a balance of comfort and handling that was characteristic of French cars. The 307 rode on 195/65 R15 tires, fitted on 15-inch wheel rims. Its drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31 was respectable for a vehicle of its class, contributing to its fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| General Information | |
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 307 |
| Generation | 307 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (109 Hp) |
| Start of Production | 2001 year |
| End of Production | 2005 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 Emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph (Calculated) | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp (92.7 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 8 kg/Nm (125 Nm/tonne) |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 68.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 3900 rpm (108.42 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | NFU TU5JP4 |
| Engine Displacement | 1587 cm³ (1.6 Liters / 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1176 kg (2592.64 lbs.) |
| Max. Weight | 1676 kg (3694.95 lbs.) |
| Max Load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) Space – Minimum | 341 l (12.04 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) Space – Maximum | 1328 l (46.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal) |
| Permitted Trailer Load with Brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted Trailer Load without Brakes | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4202 mm (165.43 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front Track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) Track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum Turning Circle (Turning Diameter) | 11.13 m (36.52 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires Size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 15 inches |
Legacy & Market Impact
The Peugeot 307 was launched into a fiercely competitive segment in Europe, going head-to-head with established rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Renault Mégane. Its unique selling proposition was its emphasis on interior volume and a more upright driving position, which offered a perceived advantage in comfort and practicality over some of its more traditional hatchback competitors. This design philosophy resonated with many European buyers, particularly families, who appreciated the added space and ease of access.
Winning the European Car of the Year award in 2002 cemented its reputation and contributed significantly to its market success. The 307 was praised for its comfortable ride, decent handling, and relatively refined engines, particularly the 1.6-liter variant, which struck a good balance between performance and running costs. Its strong sales performance helped Peugeot maintain its position as one of Europe’s leading automotive brands during the early 2000s.
However, the 307 also faced some criticisms over its lifespan, including reports of electrical issues and a somewhat firm ride on certain road surfaces, especially with larger wheel options. Despite these minor drawbacks, its overall impact was positive. It evolved the compact car concept for Peugeot, setting the stage for future models like the 308. The Peugeot 307 1.6 (109 Hp), in particular, became a ubiquitous sight on European roads, representing an accessible and practical choice for countless drivers seeking a reliable and family-friendly compact car. Its legacy is one of innovation in packaging, strong market acceptance, and a clear demonstration of Peugeot’s commitment to offering compelling options in the mainstream automotive segment.
