Peugeot has made some fantastic cars over the years. But if you’re not sure which model is the best, it can feel overwhelming. With so many options, where do you start? You don’t want to end up with a car that doesn’t fit your needs. But don’t worry, we’ve got the solution! This article will walk you through the best Peugeot cars ever made, giving you insights into each model.
If you’re buying a used Peugeot, use the VIN check tool to look up the vehicle history and make the best choice.
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Serpollet-Peugeot (1889)
- Engine: Steam-powered engine
- MSRP: Not available (due to the car’s historical nature, it was never mass-produced for sale).
Let’s kick things off with a piece of history: the Serpollet-Peugeot. If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry—it’s a rare gem. Built in the late 1800s, this steam-powered vehicle marked the beginning of Peugeot’s adventure in the automotive world. It wasn’t fast or fancy, but it was groundbreaking.
This is where the Peugeot legacy began, as they partnered with steam engine maker Serpollet to produce early cars. Though it’s more of a collector’s item today, it’s worth mentioning as the car that set Peugeot on the path to greatness.
Peugeot Type 2 (1890)
- Engine: 2-cylinder V-type internal combustion engine with 2 horsepower.
- MSRP: Not available (like the Serpollet-Peugeot, this car is a piece of history, so no standard MSRP is recorded).
Following the Serpollet-Peugeot, we have the Peugeot Type 2. This was one of the first cars powered by an internal combustion engine. Released in 1890, this tiny vehicle had a 2-cylinder engine producing just two horsepower.
While it may seem laughable by today’s standards, the Peugeot Type 2 was revolutionary for its time. It showed Peugeot’s dedication to innovation and their willingness to push boundaries. Imagine riding in one of these back in the day—it would’ve been a jaw-dropping experience!
Peugeot 201 (1929 – 1937)
- Engine: 1.1-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 23-25 horsepower.
- MSRP: Approx. $400-600 in 1930s currency (equivalent to around $6,000-10,000 today)
Fast-forward to the 1930s, Peugeot introduced the Peugeot 201. This car was a game changer. Why? It was the first Peugeot to use a numbering system with a zero in the middle—something that has become iconic for the brand.
The 201 was affordable, reliable, and built to last. It helped Peugeot survive the Great Depression and established them as a serious player in the automotive industry. If you’re into vintage cars, this one might just steal your heart with its simple, classic design.
Peugeot 504 Coupe (1969 – 1983).
- Engine Options:
- 1.8-liter 4-cylinder (97 hp)
- 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (104 hp)
- 2.7-liter V6 engine (136 hp)
- MSRP: Around $4,000-$5,000 in 1969 (approximately $30,000-$35,000 today).
If elegance and style are what you’re after, the Peugeot 504 Coupe deserves a spot on your list. Released in 1969, the 504 Coupe was a sleek, sporty car that captured the attention of car lovers worldwide. It had Italian styling (thanks to Pininfarina) and came with both 4-cylinder and V6 engine options.
What made this car stand out was its comfortable and smooth drive. Even today, the 504 Coupe holds a special place in the hearts of classic car enthusiasts. It’s a perfect blend of style and performance and a true icon of the ‘70s.
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Peugeot 205 GTi (1984 – 1994)
- Engine Options:
- 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine (105-115 hp)
- 1.9-liter 4-cylinder engine (130 hp)
- MSRP: Approximately $11,000-$15,000 at the time of its release (equivalent to around $25,000-$30,000 today)
When it comes to legendary hot hatches, the Peugeot 205 GTi tops the charts. Launched in the mid-1980s, this small, lightweight car packed a punch with its 1.6-liter and later 1.9-liter engines.
The 205 GTi wasn’t just fast—it was fun. Its sharp handling, lively engine, and stylish looks made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. If you ask any petrolhead about the best hot hatches of all time, the 205 GTi will likely be one of the first cars they mention. It’s a car that still sparks joy today.
Peugeot 106 Rallye (1993 – 1996)
- Engine: 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 98 horsepower.
- MSRP: Approx. $12,000 when new (equivalent to around $23,000-$25,000 today).
Next is the Peugeot 106 Rallye, a car for those who love pure driving pleasure. Introduced in the early ‘90s, the 106 Rallye wasn’t about luxury or comfort but fun. With a lightweight body and a small, rev-happy engine, this car was designed for zipping around corners and tearing up winding roads.
It wasn’t the fastest car, but its agility and handling made it feel like a go-kart on the street. If you’re looking for a car that delivers excitement in a small package, the 106 Rallye is hard to beat.
Peugeot 306 Rallye (1998 – 1999)
- Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 167 horsepower.
- MSRP: Approx. $20,000 when new (equivalent to around $35,000 today)
The Peugeot 306 Rallye is another model built with driving enthusiasts in mind. Released in the late 1990s, this car was a stripped-down version of the 306 GTi-6, designed to be lighter and more focused. With a 167-horsepower engine and precise handling, the 306 Rallye was a true driver’s car.
It didn’t have fancy extras, but that was the point. This car was all about delivering a pure, connected driving experience. Whether you were blasting down a country road or taking it to the track, the 306 Rallye offered plenty of thrills.
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Peugeot 208 GTi 30th (2014)
- Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower.
- MSRP: Approx. $30,000 when new.
Peugeot brought back the magic of the GTi with the Peugeot 208 GTi 30th anniversary edition. Released in 2014, this car celebrated the legacy of the 205 GTi but with a modern twist.
It had a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 208 horsepower, along with upgraded suspension and brakes. The 208 GTi 30th was quicker, sharper, and more refined than its predecessors. If you’re looking for a modern hot hatch that pays homage to Peugeot’s past, this is the one.
Peugeot 308 GTi (2015 -Present)
- Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower
- MSRP: Approx. $42,000
Finally, we have the Peugeot 308 GTi. This car takes everything Peugeot has learned over the years and packages it into a modern, high-performance hatchback. With a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing up to 270 horsepower, the 308 GTi is fast, agile, and incredibly fun to drive.
It’s also practical enough for everyday use, with a spacious interior and all the latest tech. If you want a car that delivers both excitement and practicality, the 308 GTi is the perfect choice.
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Conclusion
Peugeot has a rich history of building fantastic road cars, from early innovations like the Serpollet-Peugeot to modern hot hatches like the 308 GTi. Each model on this list has left a lasting impact on car enthusiasts worldwide.
But if you’re considering buying a used Peugeot, ensure you know what you’re getting into. A VIN check from tools can reveal hidden details like previous accidents, service records, and more. It’s an easy way to avoid surprises and ensure that your dream Peugeot is as good as it seems.
