The Peugeot 605 (6B) 3.0 V6, produced between 1997 and 2000, represents the pinnacle of Peugeot’s large executive car offerings. Positioned above the 406 in Peugeot’s lineup, the 605 aimed to compete with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6. While never officially sold in the United States, the 605 was a significant vehicle in Europe, known for its comfortable ride, sophisticated engineering, and relatively understated styling – a departure from some of the more flamboyant designs of its competitors. The 6B generation, specifically the 3.0 V6 variant, offered a compelling blend of performance and refinement for the discerning European driver.
Peugeot 605 (6B) 3.0 V6: An Overview
The 605 was Peugeot’s attempt to establish itself firmly in the premium executive segment. It replaced the aging 505 and represented a substantial leap forward in terms of technology, safety, and overall build quality. The 6B generation, introduced in 1995, featured updated styling and mechanical improvements over the original 605. The 3.0 V6 engine was a key component of the 605’s appeal, providing ample power and a smooth driving experience. The car’s focus was on providing a comfortable and refined experience, rather than outright sporting performance, though the V6 engine delivered respectable acceleration.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Peugeot 605 (6B) 3.0 V6 is its naturally aspirated 2.946-liter V6 engine, designated XFZ ES9J4. This engine produces 190 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 267 Nm (196.93 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm, resulting in a power-to-liter ratio of 64.5 hp/l. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 10.5:1. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.4 seconds and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8 seconds. The 605 3.0 V6 boasts a maximum speed of 233 km/h (144.78 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg) in urban driving and 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) on the open road.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 605 (6B) is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body measures 4765 mm (187.6 in) in length, 1799 mm (70.83 in) in width, and 1417 mm (55.79 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2800 mm (110.24 in). The car offers seating for five passengers and provides 497 liters (17.55 cu. ft.) of trunk space. The 605 prioritized comfort and refinement. Features included hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear wheels. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and a double wishbone configuration at the rear, contributing to a smooth and controlled ride. The car rides on 225/55 R16 tires. While not overtly luxurious, the 605 offered a well-appointed interior with comfortable seating and a focus on ergonomics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 605 |
| Generation | 605 (6B) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 233 km/h (144.78 mph) |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 267 Nm @ 4000 rpm (196.93 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XFZ ES9J4 |
| Engine displacement | 2946 cm3 (179.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.75 l (5.02 US qt | 4.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 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 track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16 |
The Peugeot 605 (6B) 3.0 V6, while not a mainstream vehicle in the United States, remains a respected and admired car among enthusiasts. It represents a high point in Peugeot’s engineering and design capabilities, offering a compelling alternative to the established German luxury brands of the era. Its blend of comfort, performance, and understated elegance continues to appeal to those seeking a sophisticated and refined driving experience.
