Peugeot RC Z Coming to Frankfurt

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10,593 views Jul 31, 2007

2007 Peugeot 308 RC Z concept

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French manufacturer Peugeot will have two wildly different versions of the 308 on its Frankfurt Motor Show stand. The first will be the standard compact hatchback – replacing the popular 307 – but the second will be something else entirely. And this is the first official picture. Called the 308 RC Z, it’s a glimpse at what a 2+2 coupe built off the same platform could look like.

The front end styling is taken directly from the production car but has been given a sharper lower section, incorporating the single air intake, chrome front grille, and integral front fog lamps. The curved shape of the roof panel and rear window manages airflow over the rear of the vehicle, creating sufficient rear down force to eliminate the need for a rear spoiler.

The two centrally mounted rear exhaust pipes are integrated into the wraparound rear bumper lower panel. To achieve this, the rear exhaust silencer has been located in a transverse position where it also serves as an aerodynamic diffuser, but still allows sufficient space for the storage of a spare wheel in the trunk floor.

Inside, the fascia panel has been taken directly from the 308 hatchback. Trimmed in leather, the use of chrome, aluminum, and black lacquer detailing creates a smart and sporty look.

At the rear there are two occasional folding leather seats, with enough space for a set of golf clubs when they’re not in use. Peugeot designers claim you can also get an adult mountain bike in the back.

The 308 RC Z is powered by a 1.6-liter, 218-hp turbocharged gasoline engine, mated to a six-speed gearbox. Maximum torque output of 207 lb-ft can be temporarily increased to 221 lb-ft with an overboost function. The car will hit 60 mph in seven seconds.

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