The Peugeot 605, a car synonymous with French luxury in the late 1980s and early 1990s, underwent an extraordinary transformation in the hands of its creators. This particular example, built in the late 1990s, is far from the comfortable executive saloon it was born to be. Instead, it’s a purpose-built rally raid machine, a testament to the ingenuity of its builders and a captivating blend of high-performance engineering and rugged off-road capability.
Peugeot boasts a rich history in endurance racing, dating back to 1895 with the triumphant Paris-Bordeaux-Paris race. 1 The brand’s dominance in desert racing during the 1960s and ’70s, with victories in prestigious events like the East African Safari Rally and the Rallye du Maroc, cemented its legendary status. The iconic 205 T16 and 405 T16, piloted by legendary drivers like Ari Vatanen and Juha Kankkunen, achieved an unprecedented four consecutive victories at the grueling Paris-Dakar Rally from 1987 to 1990.
This particular 605, believed to have been conceived for a proposed racing program involving IPSO and E.Leclerc, embodies the spirit of those legendary race cars.
The transformation from a road-going sedan to a desert-conquering machine is evident in every detail. The original bodywork has been replaced with lightweight composite panels, forming a widened and aggressive shell. A custom-fabricated spaceframe chassis provides the foundation for this radical transformation, ensuring exceptional strength and rigidity. The result is a visually striking machine, finished in a vibrant yellow with a livery adorned with sponsor decals.
Beneath the striking exterior lies a formidable mechanical package. Braided 16-inch alloy wheels, shod with rugged BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires, provide the necessary grip over challenging terrain. The suspension system, featuring robust tubular control arms and high-performance Donerre remote-reservoir coilovers, ensures exceptional ground clearance and precise handling. Powerful AP Racing six-piston brake calipers provide the stopping power needed to tame this beast.
The cockpit is a testament to the car’s racing pedigree. Sparco Circuit II racing seats, equipped with safety harnesses, provide secure support for the driver. A carbon-fiber instrument panel houses essential gauges, including a central tachometer, oil temperature, fuel level, and coolant temperature indicators. An OMP steering wheel, designed for optimal grip and control, connects the driver to the machine.
At the heart of this rally raid car resides a potent 3,997cc PRV V6 engine. This powerful engine, featuring a 90-degree configuration and enhanced with performance modifications, delivers exhilarating power. Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a robust SADEV five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case, ensuring optimal traction and control in varying conditions.
This Peugeot 605 rally raid car is a captivating example of automotive engineering and a testament to the enduring legacy of Peugeot in motorsport. It represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and off-road capability, offering a glimpse into the world of high-level rally racing.
Specs:
- Engine: 3,997cc PRV V6
- Transmission: SADEV five-speed manual
- Drive: 4×4
- Suspension: Donerre remote-reservoir coilovers
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for this specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
