Peugeot's "Passionate" 907 Coupé Concept

French automaker Automobiles Peugeot yesterday released details of its exhibit at the 2004 Mondial de l'Automobile, highlighted by the Peugeot 907 concept, a GT coupé, "created with reference to the past, the present and the future." With an elegant sculpted body (disingenuously described by Peugeot as "discreet"), luxurious materials and a high-output V12 engine, the sporting 907 rivals exotic coupés such as the Aston Martin Vanquish and Ferrari 575M.

The 907 is a two-seater coupé, combining a large capacity engine within a classical shape reminiscent of the mid '60s Ferrari 275 GTB rather than classic French coupés from Bugatti, Delahaye and Talbot-Lago. The wheelbase of the 907 coupé is 2.50 m, its length 4.37 m, its width 1.88 m, while its height culminates at 1.21 m — smaller than modern V12 coupés such as the Ferrari 575M, but lower, longer and wider than the classic 275 GTB.

The passenger compartment of the 907, designed to accommodate two people comfortably, is situated just ahead of the rear axle to allow for a long bonnet. A special area has been developed for storing luggage.

The 6.0 L V12 engine (368 kW or 500 CV) is positioned longitudinally behind the front axle; connected by a small propshaft, it transmits its power to a six-speed gearbox placed longitudinally in front of the rear axle. Set far back in the bonnet, a glazed panel reveals twelve intake trumpets, while two exhaust pipes emerge from either side of the car.

The structure consists principally of a carbon fibre shell, to which the mechanical components, for example, the four double wishbone suspension units, are attached. The light-weight structure contributes to a kerb weight of around 1400 kg — less than both the V8-engined C6 Chevrolet Corvette and the smaller, V6-engined Nissan 350 Z.

The roof and front windscreen form a single glazed area in harmony with the rear windscreen. Side vents are situated in the front wings and rear quarter panels, adjacent to the glazed roof, while a retractable rear spoiler is incorporated in the tailgate. Wire-pattern 18" wheels and Michelin tires, 275/40 at the front and 345/35 at the rear, emphasize the coupé's classic lines. The body is painted Molybdenum Grey.

Brown leather and light grey alcantara trim is used to cover both the interior and the seats. The steering wheel rim and the gear lever knob have authentic wood inlays. The instrument panel, although digital, is displayed in analogue style and the touch screen of the central console is connected to a PC (GPS, MP3 player, etc).