The Peugeot 205 1.6 Automatic, produced from 1987 to 1989, was a key component of the refreshed 205 range (20A/C). Built on the successful 205 platform – known internally as the X11 project and later influencing the Citroën AX and Peugeot 106 – this variant offered a more relaxed driving experience compared to its sportier siblings. The 1.6-liter engine, coupled with a three-speed automatic transmission, aimed to appeal to drivers prioritizing comfort and convenience over performance. It sat in the middle of the 205 lineup, above the base 1.0L and 1.1L models, but below the more powerful 1.6 GTI and diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 205 |
| Generation | 205 I (20A/C, facelift 1987) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (80 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 167 km/h (103.77 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 2800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XU51C |
| Engine displacement | 1580 cm3 (96.42 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.35:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 860 kg (1895.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 216 l (7.63 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 564 l (19.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3705 mm (145.87 in.) |
| Width | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Height | 1373 mm (54.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2420 mm (95.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1350 mm (53.15 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Front overhang | 680 mm (26.77 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 605 mm (23.82 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 205 1.6 Automatic is the XU51C engine, a 1580cc inline-four cylinder unit. This engine, while not the most technologically advanced, was known for its robustness and relatively simple maintenance. It utilized a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Crucially, this version employed a carburetor for fuel delivery, a cost-saving measure compared to the fuel injection systems found in higher-spec 205 models. The carburetor, while less efficient than injection, contributed to the engine’s straightforward design. The three-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, was a relatively basic unit. It featured a torque converter and planetary gearsets, offering smooth but not particularly rapid gear changes. The transmission was designed for durability rather than performance, and its gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 205 1.6 Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the manual versions or the GTI. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 12.9 seconds and a top speed of 103.77 mph. The automatic transmission, while convenient, resulted in noticeable power loss compared to the manual gearbox. Gear changes were relatively slow and lacked the responsiveness of a modern automatic. However, the car was perfectly adequate for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for urban commutes and highway cruising. The suspension, while simple (McPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear), provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The steering, typical of Peugeot, was light and precise, making the car easy to maneuver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Automatic trim level generally included features such as cloth upholstery, a basic dashboard layout, and manual windows. Power steering was often an optional extra, as were features like a sunroof and upgraded audio systems. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The seats offered reasonable comfort, and the cabin was relatively spacious for a car of its size. The 205 1.6 Automatic was often seen as a sensible and well-equipped option for families or drivers seeking a comfortable and reliable hatchback.
Chassis & Braking
The 205 1.6 Automatic utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. This configuration was typical for cars in this class at the time. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s nimble handling. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise control and good feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 205 1.6 Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its comfort and ease of use, but noted its lack of performance compared to the manual versions and the GTI. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for the time, although not as impressive as the diesel models. Compared to rivals like the Renault 5 and Citroën AX, the 205 1.6 Automatic offered a good balance of comfort, practicality, and affordability. However, the automatic transmission was often seen as a compromise, detracting from the 205’s reputation for sporty handling.
Legacy
The Peugeot 205 1.6 Automatic, while not the most iconic version of the 205, remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. The XU51C engine is known for its reliability, and the automatic transmission, while simple, is generally durable. Today, these cars are relatively affordable to purchase and maintain, making them an attractive option for those seeking a classic French hatchback. Parts availability is generally good, although some trim-specific components may be difficult to find. The 205 1.6 Automatic represents a significant chapter in Peugeot’s history, demonstrating the brand’s ability to produce affordable, reliable, and stylish cars that appealed to a wide range of buyers.
