The Peugeot 505, specifically the 551A variant with the 1.8-liter engine producing 84 horsepower, represents a significant chapter in Peugeot’s history. Produced from 1985 to 1986, this model was primarily aimed at the European market as a large family sedan, offering a blend of comfort, practicality, and a degree of sporting character. While not officially sold in the United States, the 505 gained a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciated its robust engineering and distinctive styling. It served as Peugeot’s flagship sedan during a period of transition for the company, bridging the gap between classic rear-wheel-drive designs and the increasingly prevalent front-wheel-drive layouts.
The Peugeot 505 (551A): A Detailed Overview
The 505 was designed as a successor to the popular Peugeot 504, aiming to provide a more modern and refined driving experience. The 551A designation refers to the specific body style (sedan) and engine configuration. This particular model, with its 1.8-liter engine, was positioned as the entry-level offering in the 505 range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. It competed with other European sedans like the Ford Taunus, Opel Rekord, and Volvo 240, offering a compelling alternative with its French flair and engineering.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 505 1.8 is a 1796 cc (109.6 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine, designated the 105C XM7A. This naturally aspirated engine produces 84 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 144 Nm (106.21 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2750 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving. The power-to-weight ratio of 14.5 kg/Hp (69.1 Hp/tonne) reflects the car’s relatively modest power output combined with its 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) curb weight. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.8 seconds. The top speed is rated at 165 km/h (102.53 mph). Fuel economy figures are 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg) in urban conditions, 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) combined. The engine utilizes a carburetor fuel injection system, typical for vehicles of this era.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 505 551A is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body lines are characterized by a long hood, a relatively upright cabin, and a cleanly styled rear end. The car’s dimensions are 4580 mm (180.31 in.) in length, 1735 mm (68.31 in.) in width, and 1440 mm (56.69 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2745 mm (108.07 in.). Inside, the 505 offers seating for five passengers and a trunk capacity of 485 liters (17.13 cubic feet). Features for this model year were focused on practicality and comfort. The 505 included hydraulic power steering, disc brakes on the front wheels, and drum brakes on the rear. A notable safety feature for the time was the inclusion of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), enhancing braking performance and stability. The interior was typically equipped with cloth upholstery and basic instrumentation. The 505’s rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to its balanced handling characteristics, making it a relatively enjoyable car to drive on winding roads.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 505 |
| Generation | 505 (551A) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (84 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 84 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Torque | 144 Nm @ 2750 rpm (106.21 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 105C XM7A |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 485 l (17.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm (108.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 17570 SR14 |
The Peugeot 505 551A, while not a high-performance machine, offered a compelling package of comfort, practicality, and European style. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanicals have made it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate classic automobiles. Although it never achieved widespread popularity in the US market, its legacy as a well-engineered and distinctive sedan endures.
