1983 Peugeot 205 I (741A/C) 3-door Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Peugeot 205 I (741A/C) 3-door ranges from 742 to 855 kg (1636 to 1885 lbs), depending on trim level and equipment. The maximum allowable weight, which includes passengers and cargo, ranges from 1160 to 1330 kg (2557 to 2932 lbs). This light curb weight contributes to the car’s agility and fuel efficiency.

With the rear seats in place, the Peugeot 205 I offers a luggage capacity between 216 and 246 liters (approximately 7.6 to 8.7 cubic feet). Folding the rear seats expands this capacity significantly to between 546 and 564 liters (19.3 to 19.9 cubic feet), allowing for larger cargo and versatile usage of the hatchback space.

The Peugeot 205 I (741A/C) supports a variety of rim sizes including 13, 14, and 15 inches. Corresponding tire sizes suited for this car include 185/60 R14, 185/55 R15, 135/80 R13, 165/70 R14, 165/70 R13, and 145/70 R13. The choice of tire and rim size can influence ride comfort and handling dynamics.

The Peugeot 205 I's compact dimensions make it highly suitable for fitting into a standard residential garage. With a length of 3705 mm (145.9 inches), width of 1572 mm (61.9 inches), and height of 1373 mm (54.1 inches), it leaves adequate clearance in most garages which are typically designed to accommodate vehicles up to around 5 meters (~16.4 feet) long and 2.5 meters (~8.2 feet) wide, making parking and maneuvering convenient.

The Peugeot 205 I (741A/C) did not have a direct predecessor as it effectively replaced the Peugeot 104 and other smaller models in Peugeot’s lineup. However, compared to the Peugeot 104, the 205 I was slightly larger, offering increased interior space and modern styling while maintaining a compact footprint. This size enhancement improved passenger comfort and practicality without compromising the agility required for urban driving.

In comparison to other popular hatchbacks from the 1980s, such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk2 and Ford Fiesta Mk2, the Peugeot 205 I (741A/C) is competitively sized but generally slightly shorter and narrower. The Golf Mk2, for example, measures approximately 4,020 mm in length, making the 205 I more compact. This smaller size contributed to the 205’s reputation for nimbleness and ease of parking, while still offering good interior space relative to its dimensions.

The relatively low curb weight, ranging between 742 and 855 kg (1636 to 1885 lbs), combined with compact dimensions, provides the Peugeot 205 I excellent agility and responsive handling. This lightness improves acceleration and fuel efficiency, making the car particularly enjoyable to drive in urban and sporty settings. The modest size also aids in maneuverability through tight city streets and parking areas.

With luggage space ranging between 216 and 246 liters (7.6 to 8.7 cubic feet) in normal configuration, and expanding up to 546 to 564 liters (19.3 to 19.9 cubic feet) with rear seats folded, the Peugeot 205 I offers versatile cargo capacity for its size class. This makes it practical for grocery runs, weekend trips, or transporting bulky items when the rear seats are folded down, enhancing its value as a daily driver and small family car.

Launched in 1983, the Peugeot 205 I marked a significant evolution for Peugeot’s small car segment. It introduced a modern, aerodynamic design with a more youthful appeal compared to its predecessors. Its compact yet roomy interior, efficient use of space, and lightweight construction established a new benchmark for hatchbacks in the 1980s. The 205's success influenced subsequent Peugeot models, reinforcing the importance of combining style, practicality, and performance in small cars.