The Peugeot 107 1.4 HDI, introduced in June 2005 as part of the first phase (Phase I) of the 107 model, represented a fuel-efficient and economical entry point into the Peugeot lineup. Produced through December 2008, this five-door hatchback was designed as a collaborative effort between Peugeot, Citroën, and Toyota, sharing its platform and many components with the Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo. The 1.4 HDI variant, powered by a diesel engine, was specifically targeted at buyers prioritizing low running costs and practicality in an urban environment. It occupied the base trim level within the 107 range, offering a no-frills, affordable transportation solution.
Peugeot 107 1.4 HDI: Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 107 1.4 HDI is the 8HT engine, a 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a product of PSA Peugeot Citroën’s diesel engine family, utilizes a common rail direct fuel injection system. This system, operating at a high pressure of approximately 1600 bar, ensures precise fuel delivery and contributes to the engine’s efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A small turbocharger is employed to boost power output, providing 54 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The compression ratio is notably high at 17.9:1, typical for diesel engines, maximizing combustion efficiency.
The 107 1.4 HDI was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission. This transmission was chosen to optimize fuel economy and provide a direct driving experience, aligning with the car’s intended purpose. The gearbox is a conventional setup, designed for durability and ease of maintenance. The engine is mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Engine Specifications (8HT)
Key engine specifications include a bore of 73.7 mm (2.9 in) and a stroke of 82 mm (3.23 in), resulting in a displacement of 1398 cm³ (85.31 cu. in). The engine requires 3.8 liters (4.02 US qt / 3.34 UK qt) of engine oil, specified to meet Peugeot’s standards, and 4.4 liters (4.65 US qt / 3.87 UK qt) of coolant.
Driving Characteristics
The Peugeot 107 1.4 HDI, with its modest 54 horsepower, was never intended to be a performance car. Its driving characteristics are best described as relaxed and economical. Acceleration is adequate for urban driving, but overtaking on highways requires careful planning. The engine’s peak torque of 130 Nm, available from a low 1750 rpm, provides sufficient pulling power for everyday driving situations. The five-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, maximizing fuel efficiency. The gear ratios are relatively long, further emphasizing the car’s focus on economy over outright speed. Compared to potential higher-spec 1.0-liter petrol versions, the 1.4 HDI offered significantly more torque, making it feel more responsive in city traffic, albeit with a slightly heavier engine weight.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 HDI variant of the Peugeot 107 was typically offered with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, a driver’s airbag, and central locking. Interior upholstery was typically a durable cloth material. The dashboard layout was simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use. Optional extras available for the 1.4 HDI included air conditioning, electric front windows, and a radio/CD player. Higher trim levels within the 107 range, such as the Sportium, offered more comprehensive equipment lists, including alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and additional safety features.
Chassis & Braking
The Peugeot 107 1.4 HDI utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The rear suspension employs a simple elastic beam setup, which is cost-effective and space-efficient. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. This combination was chosen to balance cost and performance, appropriate for the car’s weight and intended use. The car is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as a standard safety feature. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with electric power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 107 1.4 HDI was generally well-received by critics for its exceptional fuel economy and low running costs. It was praised as an ideal city car, easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces. However, its limited power output and basic interior were points of criticism. Compared to the petrol-powered 1.0-liter versions of the 107, the 1.4 HDI offered superior torque and better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for drivers covering longer distances or frequently carrying passengers. Its CO2 emissions of 109 g/km placed it in a favorable position regarding environmental regulations and tax incentives. Reliability was generally good, with the 8HT diesel engine proving to be durable and relatively trouble-free.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 107 |
| Generation | 107 (Phase I, 2005) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 HDI (54 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2005 |
| End of production | December, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg / 53.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg / 83.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg / 68.9 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.5 kg/Hp |
| Power | 54 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 1750 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8HT |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.7 mm (2.9 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt / 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt / 3.87 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 890 kg (1962.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1245 kg (2744.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 130 l (4.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (maximum) | 712 l (25.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal / 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3430 mm (135.04 in.) |
| Width | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2340 mm (92.13 in.) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
Legacy
The Peugeot 107 1.4 HDI has proven to be a reliable and economical vehicle in the used car market. The 8HT diesel engine, while not particularly powerful, is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. Common issues are typically limited to wear and tear items such as clutch components and suspension bushings. The car’s simple construction and readily available parts contribute to its affordability and ease of repair. Today, the 107 1.4 HDI remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient city car.
