1996 Peugeot 406 Break (Phase I, 1996) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Peugeot 406 Break Phase I ranges from 1300 kg to 1540 kg (roughly 2866 to 3395 pounds), while the maximum allowable weight ranges between 1805 kg and 1960 kg (around 3979 to 4321 pounds). The relatively moderate curb weight helps balance ride comfort and fuel efficiency, with the vehicle also offering solid handling characteristics typical of European station wagons from the era. The maximum weight caters to carrying passengers and cargo without sacrificing vehicle control, making it suitable for both family and utility use.

The Peugeot 406 Break Phase I provides a luggage capacity of 525 liters (about 18.5 cubic feet) when the rear seats are in use, which is quite spacious for a station wagon of this class. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume expands significantly to 1740 liters (approximately 61.4 cubic feet), allowing users to transport larger loads easily and making this vehicle highly practical for family trips, moving bulky items, or outdoor activities that require substantial storage space.

Yes, the Peugeot 406 Break Phase I is generally a good fit for a standard residential garage. Most single-car garages have internal dimensions of approximately 2440 mm to 2740 mm (8 to 9 feet) wide and about 4875 mm (16 feet) deep. Given the vehicle's width of up to 1765 mm (69.5 inches) and length up to 4740 mm (186.6 inches), the 406 Break provides enough clearance for opening doors and maneuvering inside the garage comfortably, assuming the garage is of standard size. Its height under 1505 mm (59.2 inches) ensures ample vertical clearance.

The Peugeot 406 Break Phase I typically comes equipped with 15-inch rims paired with tire sizes of either 205/60 R15 or 195/65 R15. These tire dimensions contribute to a balanced driving experience by providing a comfortable ride and good grip on various surfaces, while also maintaining fuel efficiency by not being excessively wide or heavy. The 15-inch rim size was common for station wagons in the mid-90s, offering a good compromise between ride quality and handling.

The Peugeot 406 Break Phase I marked a clear evolution from its predecessor, the Peugeot 405 Estate. While both are station wagons, the 406 Break was generally larger, offering improved interior space and luggage capacity. The 406 Break's length (4725-4740 mm) slightly exceeds that of the 405 Estate, which was around 4550 mm. Width and height increases provide a more modern, spacious cabin, better ergonomics, and enhanced comfort. This increase in size also reflects Peugeot's move towards more premium positioning for the 406 series, with improved design and road manners compared to the 405.

In comparison to contemporaries like the Ford Mondeo Estate and Volkswagen Passat Variant, the Peugeot 406 Break Phase I offers competitive exterior dimensions and cargo space. The 406 Break is slightly longer than the Ford Mondeo Estate (typically around 4710 mm) and the Volkswagen Passat Variant (in the mid-4700 mm range), placing it comfortably in the midsize wagon category. Peugeot's design emphasizes a balance of comfort, driving dynamics, and practicality, with a spacious 525-liter trunk capacity that expands impressively to 1740 liters when folded, which competes well with rivals. Overall, it delivers a solid European alternative in terms of size, space, and driving refinement.

With a length of just under 4.75 meters (around 15.6 feet) and a width below 1.77 meters (about 5.8 feet), the Peugeot 406 Break Phase I remains practical for urban environments and parking. While not as compact as smaller hatchbacks or sedans, its size is manageable, especially in European city settings. The moderate width is beneficial for navigating narrower streets and parking spaces, and although the height is around 1.5 meters (close to 5 feet), the wagon format aids driver visibility. Drivers may find parallel parking easier than larger SUVs, but some care is needed for tight spaces due to its length.

The Peugeot 406 Break Phase I was designed with passenger comfort and spaciousness in mind, particularly across the rear seats and cargo area. With a luggage capacity of 525 liters and expandable to 1740 liters, it caters well to families and those needing versatile hauling options. The wagon's interior was recognized for ergonomic seating, ample legroom, and headroom that exceed many competitors at the time. This focus on interior volume alongside European design standards ensures comfortable travel for passengers on long trips and flexibility for carrying diverse loads.

The 406 Break Phase I typically features 15-inch rims fitted with either 205/60 R15 or 195/65 R15 tires. The relatively moderate tire width (195 mm to 205 mm) combined with the aspect ratios (60 or 65) is designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The tire sizing contributes to smooth driving on paved roads, responsive steering, and adequate grip under various weather conditions. These tire and rim options were common among European wagons of the era, focused on delivering comfort and safety rather than sporty performance.