1983 Peugeot 505 STI 2.2L 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Legendary reliability lives on! (2018)

Faults:

Since I've owned it, the only things that have broken are the tube around the sunroof cable, and the A/C belt. I've also replaced a wheel bearing.

Existing issues are mostly with the interior due to sitting for several years before my ownership. The stitching on the seats is very brittle, there's cracks in the dash, the rear windows are seized, and there's a couple of spots pulling up in the (seemingly tweed) carpet from shrinkage.

It currently needs new tie-rod ends (dry rotted boots), and it leaks a small amount of oil when running.

General Comments:

I've adored the look of the 505s ever since I was a kid, and as a 23 year old car enthusiast (particularly of Volvos and Saabs) with 25 previous cars of experience, I can say without the slightest bit of doubt that at 35 years old, this is THE single oldest, reliable, and the most unique car I have EVER owned!

I bought it cheap after watching it sit for 4 over years, and other than some typical maintenance (plugs, wheel bearing, battery), and topping off some fluids, it's proven itself to be just as reliable as the day it rolled off the assembly line.

It runs great, drives straight as a bullet, and raises questions more than any other car on the road! The body is pristine, the drive is quiet, upholstery wear is minimal, and the completely stock 35 year old "Professional Series" stereo is still fully functional, and though it lacks a bit in bass, it surpasses most newer vehicles in terms of clarity and separation. The 3spd auto transmission isn't the fastest, or most fuel efficient on the highway, but what it lacks, it more than makes up for in power; I can drive through the Adirondacks without ever downshifting from 3rd gear!

I've taken multiple trips across the state with it, and with new tie-rod ends and tires, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to drive across the country! The parts for it may be a bit hard to find, but fortunately, you'll rarely have to replace anything. This car is comparable in its wonderful ride and tank-like reliability to Mercedes and Volvo models of the era... while also retaining the ability to make their owners drool upon sight!

This is the perfect car for someone looking for their first classic, and from my experience, an excellent backup car for when your daily driver breaks down (I've seen 505s as dailys with over 500,000 miles). Keep in mind - the prices will only go up from here, so get while the gettin's good!

My only real complaint is that you have to special-order oil filters, so don't expect to take it anywhere to get your oil changed in a hurry. For this specific engine, order the NAPA 1340 oil filter... it's the only shop I can find here in NY that can get one quickly.

I would happily recommend this car to anyone, and I really hope this review helps future Peugeot owners. Be sure to comment with how your experience goes, I'll be periodically checking in on this post!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th October, 2018

29th Oct 2018, 15:38

Peugeots from that era, including the one I once owned, had some qualities, but "legendary reliability" was definitely not one of them. Their rarity in the US used car market now is certainly understandable, considering their low sales volume even when they were still available new (nearly 30 years ago). Difficulty finding parts/service in the present would seem to limit the appeal, of the few still available, to Pug fanatics.

Like the reviewer.

1983 Peugeot 505 S - Silver Edition 2.3 turbo diesel from North America

Summary:

At 21 years old, she's still turning heads!

Faults:

Major oil leak when purchased (due to the amateur "mechanic" who previously owned the car) - easily repaired by re-seating the valve cover.

Had alternator rebuilt at 125,000 miles. I didn't even KNOW that Motorola made alternators (neither did the mechanic who rebuilt it).

Replaced vacuum pump at 126,000 miles.

Replaced one rear window motor at 126,000 miles.

Speedometer is a little bouncy (I have read that this is common).

Sunroof and heated seats do not work (but are on my project list).

General Comments:

After several bouts of retroactive maintenance dealing with the neglect of the former owner, this car is starting to shine.

The car is hands down the most comfortable car I have owned, the ride is excellent, and the legendary Peugeot seats do not disappoint.

The turbo diesel is satisfactorily noisy and just a little bit smoky on hard acceleration (great for keeping away those who follow too closely).

I would buy another in a heartbeat (and am looking for a good 405 mi16). Please Peugeot, PLEASE come back to America!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th November, 2004

18th Dec 2009, 15:13

I am feeling the loss with you. Peugeot, please come back to America.

1983 Peugeot 505 S Silver Edition 2.0 from North America

Summary:

Fast, economical and reliable

Faults:

Master cylinder.

EGR valve.

Sunroof doesn't work.

Some rust.

General Comments:

Peugeot's are great cars. It can be interesting to own one in the U.S. I think Peugeot's would do well if they were sold here again (at least I would buy one). The Europeans just have to stand behind their products more than they did/do.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd November, 2000

1983 Peugeot 505 GR Estate (wagon) 2.0 carb petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Little ancillary items such as distributor, alternator, fuel pump and radiator.

General Comments:

The major mechanicals seem to be solid. At 164,000 miles I still have all the original major mechanicals (even the clutch).

Fantastically practical workhorse.

Rust can be a problem with these early models.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th January, 1999