1997 Peugeot 406 Coupe (Phase I, 1997) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I is between 1385 kg and 1505 kg (approximately 3054 to 3317 pounds), depending on specific trims and equipment options. Its maximum authorized weight ranges from 1785 kg to 1935 kg (about 3937 to 4267 pounds), which accounts for passengers, cargo, and any additional load. This variation in weight highlights the difference in features and engine configurations available throughout its production.

The Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I provides a luggage capacity of 390 liters (around 13.8 cubic feet). This is a reasonably sized trunk for a two-door coupe from this era, offering ample space for everyday items, weekend luggage, or shopping bags. While not as large as sedans, this trunk size balances sporty styling with practical usability.

The standard rim size for the Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I is 16 inches. Tire sizes commonly fitted include 205/55 R16 and 215/55 R16, providing a combination of good grip and ride comfort. There are also options for smaller 15-inch tires such as the 205/60 R15 and 195/65 R15, depending on the market and trim levels. These tire and rim sizes impact driving dynamics and aesthetics.

A standard home garage in many countries typically measures about 2.4 to 2.7 meters wide and 5 to 6 meters deep (about 7.9 to 8.9 feet wide and 16.4 to 19.7 feet deep). Given the Peugeot 406 Coupe's length of approximately 4.615 to 4.620 meters (15.1 feet), width of 1.78 meters (5.8 feet), and height roughly 1.35 meters (4.4 feet), it fits comfortably within these dimensions with room to spare for opening doors and some storage space. The coupe's relatively compact size allows easy parking in most household garages.

The Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I was introduced as a fresh styling and body style after the earlier 405 models, which were mostly sedans and estates. In comparison, the 406 Coupe has a more streamlined and sportier build with a length around 4615-4620 mm, which is longer than the 405 sedan (approximately 4.5 meters). Compared to similar mid-size coupes of its time, like the Audi A4 Coupe or BMW 3 Series coupe, the 406 Coupe is competitive in size, providing a balanced mix of elegance and road presence with its 1780 mm width and relatively low height around 1350 mm.

With a width of 1780 mm (70.1 inches) and a relatively low height of 1350-1352 mm (53.1-53.2 inches), the Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I delivers a low center of gravity and a stable stance on the road. The relatively narrow width compared to larger coupes makes it more agile in urban environments and easier to maneuver through tighter spaces. The coupe's low height enhances aerodynamic efficiency and contributes to sporty handling characteristics, giving drivers a confident and engaging driving experience.

The Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I stands out with its elegant Pininfarina-designed body, blending classic coupe styling with modern engineering. Produced between 1997 and 2003, it offers a combination of sportiness and comfort, characterized by a driver-focused cabin and refined driving dynamics. Engine options varied, but the coupe was known for smooth performance and decent fuel efficiency for its class. It featured standard 16-inch rims and was equipped with safety and convenience features befitting a premium mid-size coupe of its time.

Dimensional comparisons place the Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I alongside competitors such as the Audi A4 Coupe and BMW 3 Series Coupe from the late 1990s. With a length of about 4.62 meters (15.1 feet) and width of 1.78 meters (5.8 feet), it is quite competitive; in fact, it is slightly longer but a bit narrower in some cases. Stylistically, its Pininfarina-designed body emphasizes smooth, flowing lines that contrast with the sharper edges seen in rival German coupes, offering a distinct blend of Italian flair and French sophistication. This combination makes it stand out aesthetically while maintaining practical coupe proportions.

The Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase I's curb weight ranges from 1385 kg to 1505 kg (3054 to 3317 pounds), which is moderate for a sport-oriented mid-size coupe. This relatively lightweight design, combined with its aerodynamic shape and size (length approximately 4.62 meters and width 1.78 meters), allows for a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance. Being lighter helps with acceleration and handling responsiveness, while the coupe's aerodynamic profile reduces drag, contributing to better fuel economy compared to heavier, bulkier coupes. This balance makes the 406 Coupe suitable for drivers seeking sporty driving without excessive fuel consumption.