So now you’ve seen contestant number one, and what an elegant shape it is. But, you whine, the sexy Alfa V6 with its gorgeous intake runners and musical exhaust note sucks up too much fuel, and needs regular timing belt changes, lest it bend its valves, and the term “stepper motor” sends shivers down the spine. So feast your eyes (and your low-budget-fun-car dollars) on this 1991 Peugeot 405 Mi16 for sale for $1600 in Portland, OR.
These have always been relatively obscure cars in the US, which is too bad, since these came out just as Peugeot was moving on to its next (much more attractive) design generation. They look much like a compact Alfa 164 or Peugeot 605, and have a cracking 160bhp 1.9-liter four. That sounds weak now, but compares favorably to other cars of the time, such as the BMW M3, Alfa Milano, and Mercedes 190E 2.3-16. Less exciting is the fact that they’re front-wheel-drive, but Peugeot had a good reputation for building fun front-drivers, starting with the 205. What’s more is, the car has racing heritage, with the car being run in touring car races and rallies.
This example seems to be fairly well-cared-for, and has some unusual (for the US market) factory wheels. The owner admits to some defects, including a failing power steering pump, missing passenger outer mirror, and broken sunroof, and says the car needs some cosmetic attention. However, he’s added a sports exhaust, upgraded brakes, HID headlights and a spiffy stereo. Find it on craigslist in Peabody, MA, just north of Boston.
Like with many other Peugeots, it wouldn’t be going out on a limb to say this is a durable car. Parts should be readily available – a quick search turned up a wrecker in Vermont, and there are other sources out there. What’s more is, this car is still being built by Iran Khodros, and was still for sale in many countries through the late 90s. Have you driven one? Is it as fun as Peugeot’s reputation would lead you to believe?
Rusty But Trusty 