The Peugeot 605 (6B) 2.0 16V, produced from 1994 to 2000, represents the final evolution of Peugeot’s large executive sedan. Positioned above the Peugeot 505, the 605 aimed to compete with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi 100. While never officially sold in the United States, the 605 was a significant model in Europe, known for its comfortable ride, sophisticated engineering, and relatively affordable price point within its segment. The 2.0 16V variant offered a balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for private buyers and company car fleets.
Peugeot 605 (6B) 2.0 16V: An Overview
The 605 was Peugeot’s flagship sedan during its production run, embodying the company’s commitment to innovation and quality. The 6B generation, introduced in 1994, featured refinements to the original 605 design, including updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features. The 2.0 16V engine option provided a sporty alternative to the larger displacement engines available, appealing to drivers who prioritized responsiveness and efficiency. The car’s design was distinctly French, characterized by clean lines and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Peugeot 605 2.0 16V is the RFV XU10J4R 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 132 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement – 66.1 horsepower per liter. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.8 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.9 kg/Nm contribute to a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 605 6B is a four-door sedan with a spacious interior designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers. Its exterior styling is characterized by a long wheelbase, a sloping roofline, and a relatively understated elegance. The car’s design prioritized aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to its respectable fuel economy. Inside, the 605 offered a well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating and a range of features for the time, including power windows, central locking, and an available sunroof. Safety features included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was becoming increasingly common on vehicles in this class. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 497 liters (17.55 cubic feet), providing ample space for luggage. The 605’s suspension, featuring wishbone setups both front and rear, was tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 605 |
| Generation | 605 (6B) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 16V (132 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 27 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 32.5 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 11.5 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4200 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFV XU10J4R |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 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 | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 497 l (17.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4765 mm (187.6 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 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 | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 205/60 R15 |
The Peugeot 605 2.0 16V, while not officially available in the US market, remains a respected and desirable vehicle among enthusiasts. Its blend of comfort, performance, and sophisticated engineering makes it a compelling alternative to its German rivals, representing a high point in Peugeot’s history of executive sedan design.
