1989 Peugeot 309 (3C,3A facelift 1989) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Peugeot 309 facelift ranges from 835 kg to 1000 kg (approximately 1841 to 2205 lbs), with a maximum weight between 1275 kg and 1400 kg (around 2810 to 3086 lbs). This relatively lightweight profile contributes positively to fuel efficiency and agility, especially for a compact hatchback from this era. The lower weight also aids in responsive handling and acceleration, although exact performance largely depends on the engine variant. The maximum weight encompasses passengers and cargo capacities, meaning that when fully loaded, the car’s dynamics may slightly change but still remain manageable for daily use.

The Peugeot 309 from the 1989 facelift has a luggage capacity of 295 liters (approximately 10.4 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their standard position. When the rear seats are folded down, the usable cargo space increases significantly to 615 liters (about 21.7 cubic feet). This flexibility allows for efficient transport of larger items, enhancing the practicality of the hatchback design for families or users needing extra storage on demand.

Yes, the Peugeot 309 facelift fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4050 mm (159.4 inches) and width of 1630 mm (64.2 inches), it is smaller than the average garage size, which typically ranges around 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet) in width and length. Even when considering mirrors and potential slight maneuvering space, parking the 309 inside a standard garage is convenient, making it well-suited for urban homeowners or apartment dwellers who rely on garage storage.

The Peugeot 309 facelift commonly uses rim sizes of 13 inches, paired with tire options including 145/80 SR13, 165/70 SR13, 175/65 HR14, 165/70 TR13, 185/55 VR15, and 195/55 VR15. These size variations allow for a balance between comfort and handling. Smaller tires and rims such as 145/80 SR13 generally improve ride comfort and absorb road imperfections better, while larger tires like 195/55 VR15 provide enhanced road grip and sportier handling characteristics. This range lets owners tailor their vehicle’s driving dynamics to regional road conditions or personal preference.

The 1989 facelift of the Peugeot 309 kept the core dimensions largely consistent with the original model introduced earlier in the 1980s. Both versions maintain a compact hatchback footprint with very similar length, width, and height to preserve familiar driving and parking traits. The facelift primarily focused on cosmetic and mechanical updates rather than dimensional changes, so the 4050 mm length and 1630 mm width remain mostly unchanged. This ensures continuity for users familiar with the predecessor while incorporating modernized design and internal improvements.

In comparison with similar hatchbacks from its time, such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk2 or Ford Fiesta Mk3, the Peugeot 309 facelift offers competitive exterior dimensions with a length of 4050 mm (159.4 inches) and a width of 1630 mm (64.2 inches). Its luggage space of 295 liters (10.4 cubic feet) with seats up, and 615 liters (21.7 cubic feet) folded down, makes it notably practical within the compact segment. While it may be slightly narrower than some rivals, its lightweight design and flexible cargo capacity make the 309 a versatile option for city and suburban drivers seeking a balance of size and functionality.

The Peugeot 309 facelift, with its relatively compact exterior size, offers a comfortable interior typical of late 1980s hatchbacks. While it prioritizes efficient use of space, the cabin comfortably accommodates five passengers with adequate headroom and legroom for its category. The 1380 mm (54.3 inches) height provides enough vertical space, and the hatchback design enhances rear seat passenger visibility and access. Though not spacious by modern standards, the interior layout optimizes passenger comfort well within the framework of a compact family car from that era.

The Peugeot 309 facelift (1989-1993) combines a well-balanced compact size with notable practicality. It offers ample luggage space especially with rear seats folded, lightweight construction for good fuel efficiency, and the adaptability of several tire/rim options accommodating different driving preferences. Its design refresh improved aesthetics and mechanical reliability over earlier models. Compared to other hatchbacks of its class, it stands out for offering a good balance of size, economy, and space in a practical, city-friendly package, making it appealing for urban and small family use.

The 1989 Peugeot 309 facelift played a formative role in refining Peugeot's approach to compact hatchbacks. Its modest but practical dimensions set a benchmark for usability, balancing small exterior footprints with interior flexibility and efficient cargo capacity. The success of this generation helped Peugeot evolve future models like the 306 and 307 with similar principles — emphasizing comfort, urban practicality, and adaptable storage. Design-wise, the facelift introduced subtle modern touches that influenced the clean, functional aesthetic of Peugeot hatchbacks throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.