Peugeot 908 RC

[Pebb]

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Source: AutoExpress

This sensational Peugeot supercar will be one of the stars at the Paris Motor Show next month

Here's a lion that really roars! Powered by a 700bhp V12 diesel and clad in an amazing body, this sensational Peugeot supercar will be one of the stars at the Paris Motor Show next month.

Called the 908 RC, it's a bizarre mix of luxury and pure power, because underneath the incredible shape lies the chassis and engine from Peugeot's new Le Mans racer, a car that will compete in next year's 24-hour enduro.

However, the five-metre long body isn't just for show. It points the way to a replacement for the ageing 607 flagship saloon, which would compete with Citroen's C6 and German prestige rivals such as BMW's 5-Series.

Peugeot says the 908 RC has been designed to look like a big cat, with an aggressive 'mouth' featuring deep air intakes, a pronounced bonnet which tapers to a pointed nose and LED headlights cut into crystal-like lenses. At the rear, the 908 RC has distinctive lights with aluminium inserts and curved haunches - the firm claims the look here has been styled on a cat's claws.

In profile, the 908 RC is very simple - there are no door handles to break up the lines - while massive wheels appear at each corner. The strange cab-forward styling is necessary in order to package the four-seat interior ahead of the massive engine. The transversely mounted 5.5-litre V12 HDi unit produces more than 700bhp and 1,200Nm of torque, while twin particulate filters ensure the emissions are as clean as possible. A six-speed sequential gearbox handles power to the rear wheels, and the Peugeot covers the 0-60mph sprint in around three seconds, with a top speed in excess of 300kmh (186mph).

A pop-up rear spoiler combines with a flat undertray and rear diffuser to keep the car stable at high speeds, while carbon ceramic brakes provide ample stopping power. Cornering should be equally impressive, thanks to a carbon fibre and aluminium composite chassis with double wishbone suspension all round.

Despite the racing car underpinnings, the 908 RC is luxurious inside, with individual leather seats, polished aluminium and chrome trim, plus a touch-screen centre console which controls the car's entertainment, sat-nav and climate functions.

Passengers also get a great view out, thanks to a panoramic windscreen that stretches over the front-seat occupants.

Images:

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_414/car_photo_207418_5.jpg
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_414/car_photo_207417_5.jpg
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_414/car_photo_207416_5.jpg
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_414/car_photo_207415_5.jpg
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_414/car_photo_207414_5.jpg
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_414/car_photo_207413_5.jpg

 

[JCE]

They should definately build it. Looks great, and has a good diesel engine.

 

[Law93]

doesn't look that bad, i think they could have done better though. i wonder how the Le Mans car holding the new engine will look like......

 

[harrytuttle]

They should definately build it. Looks great, and has a good diesel engine.

Peugeot has a track record of building great concepts, ignoring them, and building more of the same old stuff. It's not bad "same old stuff", but it's not the concepts that they came up with. In just the last few years, there's been the RC cars (one of the first diesel sports cars), the Hoggar (not that it had a chance), the 407 Elixir, and this 907 is at least two years old.

 

[Arawn]

Peugeot has a track record of building great concepts, ignoring them, and building more of the same old stuff. It's not bad "same old stuff", but it's not the concepts that they came up with. In just the last few years, there's been the RC cars (one of the first diesel sports cars), the Hoggar (not that it had a chance), the 407 Elixir, and this 907 is at least two years old.

QFT,

All those big french car manufacturers (peugeot, citroën and renault) have the most dullest lineup's imagianable. The concepts show they got what it takes to make a great sportscar and yet they don't. What's up with that ?

If i would like to buy a sportscar almost every brand can offer me someting i would probably like but they just can't. there is absolutly nothing sporty about them french frontwheel driven automatic diesels.

 

[niky]

That engine + this body:

Hell, the 907 was a fully functional ("fully" as in you could drive it down the road at a silly rate of speed) concept... just a smidge away from production, and they still didn't build it.

More of the same. Someone should tell Peugeot that halo cars work better if people actually see them on the road.

 

[Flerbizky]

That engine + this body:

Hell, the 907 was a fully functional ("fully" as in you could drive it down the road at a silly rate of speed) concept... just a smidge away from production, and they still didn't build it.

More of the same. Someone should tell Peugeot that halo cars work better if people actually see them on the road.

THAT one I like - Thanks !...

The 908 they can keep...

 

[Metar]

I like that new style of Peugeots lately. But then again, I'm biased...
I like the design of the 908, but the front of the 907 looks much better. I'd combine that front of the 907 with the other parts of the 908, but make the bonnet (front one, is it bonnet or hood?) somewhat longer... The 907 one was a bit too long.

EDIT: niky, I read a review of the 907 once... The reporter barely stayed alive after trying out the brakes on that car on public roads. Madness... From what I rememmber, it had a superstiff suspension, amazing acceleration, and way too strong brakes. It made them spin out...

 

[Roo]

907 for weekends, 908 for the school run.

A 700hp, mid-engined 4 seater? I'd buy it. If I had the cash, of course. I bet it's got MR2-rivalling boot space, though.

I'd combine that front of the 907 with the other parts of the 908, but make the bonnet (front one, is it bonnet or hood?) somewhat longer... The 907 one was a bit too long.

It's already 5 metres long. Any more, you'll need planning permission to park it.

 

[Metar]

Then do what most family-car makers do - squeeze the guys in the rear. I didn't want it to be a full-size empty front - Just a little less steep. And the Maybach is 6 metres something - length is not a problem with supercars or extreme-luxury cruisers. So why not combine?

 

[Pink_the_Floyd]

This car sucks,

In every single model by Peugeot, I'm seeing the same front headlights 👎

 

[Arawn]

This car sucks,

In every single model by Peugeot, I'm seeing the same front headlights 👎

Its the same but not quite, they just keep stretching them longer and longer. the same with the front grill, it just gets bigger and bigger. just look here i've put them in one picture (remember to stretch the image in IE).

http://users.telenet.be/BMW_Pics/temp/Peugeot%20history.JPG

I also got this image.

Its the prototype peugeot 408. the image should not have been released yet but got on the web early .

http://users.telenet.be/BMW_Pics/temp/Peugeot%20408.JPG

 

[ROAD_DOGG33J]

It would look way better as a 2-door.

edit: Actually, what I probably meant is 2 seater

Nice pic of the 408:tup:

 

[harrytuttle]

Its the same but not quite, they just keep stretching them longer and longer. the same with the front grill, it just gets bigger and bigger. just look here i've put them in one picture (remember to stretch the image in IE).

http://users.telenet.be/BMW_Pics/temp/Peugeot%20history.JPG

I also got this image.

Its the prototype peugeot 408. the image should not have been released yet but got on the web early .

http://users.telenet.be/BMW_Pics/temp/Peugeot%20408.JPG

Wow. What will the 409 look like? Lights that wrap all the way around like a flying saucer? Silly Peugeot, another company with the correct answer right under their noses....

 

[JohnBM01]

I am a very modest fan of Peugeot. Whereas people would quickly decry the Peugeot 206 as one of the "gayest-looking" cars (I NEVER use that term to describe ANYTHING I don't like. I don't even know why people even use that term to describe such things they don't like), I've thought a number of models looked pretty nice with the exception of the (I know live4speed is going to jump on me for this, but...) 106 and 306. I thought the 406 has to be the lovliest modern Peugeot of all time. The 607 was a pretty lasy itself. I'm going to say something I rarely say at all- the front of the 908RC sort of looks like a badly-done tuner car. I usually like to say that a special aspect of a luxury car is either elegance or lovliness. The sides and rear do look pretty nice. I probably would want smoother dimensions of the car so that I can love a luxury-type car like I would like an Aston Martin or a Jaguar S-Type.

It is a nice little car, so on the basis of what's beneath the sheet metal and what is actually being marketed to us, I'm giving it about 85% approval. My view of concept cars is that it's not always about an outlandish-looking automobile that looks too ugly for the road. I don't think there is a such thing as a car looking too conceptual. I think people said that a lot about the failed Isuzu Vehicross. Cars are designed any sort of way from the creators. I don't think some creators care if they look too much like Auto Show material made for the road. The key point is to focus on the motor as it will be the latest weapon to try out Le Mans race cars. I wish Peugeot mad respect for their efforts. They may have a chance to get it done like they did back in 1992 or 1993 with the Peugeot 905. Peugeot has competed since a few years ago, just not really a contender for Le Mans wins like their early-mid 1990s Le Mans efforts.

I hope this materializes into something good for Peugeot both in street cars and racing cars.

 

[sutton.a]

Just umm pulling some stats from some websites on the 908RC

Quotes from: http://www.uk-autonews.com/news.asp?story=New_Peugeot_908RC_to_debut_at_Paris_Motor_Show_2006&item=752

Engine + Architecture

Engine and architecture

The 908 RC is powered by Peugeot’s V12 HDi DPFS (diesel particulate filter system) diesel engine designed to take part in the "Le Mans Race Series" programme in 2007.

The engine has a capacity of 5.5-litres and offers a level of performance unprecedented for a diesel engine, with a maximum power output greater than 700bhp and, above all, an exceptional torque in excess of 1200Nm. With a 100° V angle architecture, the engine’s centre of gravity is as low as possible. Two particulate filters are located at the end of each exhaust system ensuring the car’s environmentally-friendly credentials.

The originality of the 908 RC resides in its compact design, with the engine arranged in a rear central transverse position. Similarly the compact 6-speed electronically controlled sequential gearbox has been specially adapted to withstand the phenomenal torque, and is located under the engine.

The position of the power train allows the creation of a large-capacity boot, situated behind the final drive assembly and therefore not encroaching on the generous interior space of the passenger compartment. This design also allows the driving position to be moved forward, maximising the driving experience for both the driver and the passengers.

Exterior style

The design of the 908 RC creates a particularly low-lying exterior body with a stylish tapered design at the front of the vehicle. Its proportions create an elegant and dynamic statement. Sitting on large diameter 20 spoke alloy wheels (20’’ at the front, 21’’ at the rear); the overall effect is that of a big cat, from the nose at the front, to the tip of the rear lights.

More than ever, the Marque’s emblem has played a part in fashioning the power of expression of the 908 RC.

At the front, the lion’s character seems to emanate from each detail, starting with the design of the headlights. Lighting is provided by light-emitting diodes (LEDs), with their dazzling appearance the result of a special finish given to the internal components. The exterior appearance of the lights looks like a crystal, cut like a precious stone, creating a faint outline like the pupil of an eye.

The bonnet draws its inspiration directly from the head of a big cat. The areas either side of the bonnet create the effect of the cat’s "cheeks" with the bonnet tapering down to a nose, highlighted by the large chromed emblem of the Marque.

A lot of attention has been paid to the design of the exterior body, with its lack of door handles creating surfaces of great simplicity and purity, and highlighting to maximum effect the reflections that accentuate every facet of the body.

Aligned with the curves of the car’s pronounced "hindquarters", the rear lights, equipped with LEDs, incorporate a polished aluminium insert evoking the shape of a powerful claw. The dynamic rear profile is characterised by the shape of the rear air diffuser, accentuated by chrome detailing and supported visually on each side by twin exhaust pipes.

The metallic black body colour with its bluish reflections further enhances the impression of status, dynamism and purity portrayed by this car.

Interior

Inside the 908 RC

The ambience inside the 908 RC is the result of meticulous attention to detail on the part of the car’s designers.

Thanks to a forward-positioned passenger compartment made possible by the car’s architecture, and a large glazed surface area of 3m2, occupants are truly at one with the road and the passing landscape. The special shape of the huge front windscreen allows a completely unimpeded field of vision (as on the RC concept cars). The front windscreen stretches back behind the driver’s head, as far as the B/C post where the glazed roof begins. This gives both front and rear passengers a sense of being at one with the outside environment. Unequalled brightness and visibility combine with a generous interior space, complete with four independent seats, helping to create a truly exceptional ambience.

The light and flowing style of the interior, combined with the latest technology ensures purity of the design and a comfortable interior. For example, all vehicle functions (radio, MP3 player, satellite navigation, four-zone air conditioning, etc) can be easily controlled by means of a large touch screen - the Man/Machine Interface (MMI). The MMI is also accessible to the rear passengers, thanks to a multimedia screen positioned on the centre console separating the two rear seats.

The high-quality materials and interior finish of the 908 RC create an atmosphere that is both luxurious and timeless. The passenger compartment features dark oak surrounds, integral amethyst-grey leather trim, polished aluminium inserts, touches of chrome, and a Bell&Ross clock: everything stimulates the senses of touch, sight and smell. Practical aspects have not been overlooked either. Numerous storage spaces, in addition to the large air conditioned glove box, are located in the door panels and also in the front and rear consoles.

Structure + Suspension

Structure and Suspension

In the great tradition of Peugeot concept cars, the 908 RC is a unique model conceived in the inner sanctum of the Peugeot Design Centre in Paris. The vehicle is built around a pre-impregnated carbon composite and vacuum-polymerised aluminium honeycomb structure. The rear section is a self-supporting shell incorporating a sub-frame consisting of a tubular structure on which the engine and suspension are assembled.

Both at the front and the rear, the car features a drop link double wishbone type suspension, derived from the 407.

Braking is by means of four monobloc ceramic carbon composite discs which reduce weight and improve thermal efficiency. The wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 255/35 R20 tyres at the front and 285/30 R21 at the rear.

Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics

The car’s aerodynamics have been particularly fine-tuned to attain an excellent drag coefficient of only 0.556. The air ducts were designed in a wind tunnel to optimise the car’s performance and fuel consumption, while ensuring the necessary cooling of the power train.

A two-part front air intake directs air to cool both of the engine’s radiators and also improve the car’s aerodynamic performance by controlling the internal and external flow by means of the black anodised aluminium vents located upstream of the front wheels.

Air is provided to the engine by means of vents located in the rear quarter panels.

Air is also directed from the rear wheel arches, through the two intercoolers for the turbochargers and then out through the visible vents behind the wheel arch.

A controllable rear spoiler incorporated into the boot lid can be raised by the driver to improve road holding.

The flat under floor and diffuser enhance further the aerodynamic efficiency of the 908 RC.

I was reading up on it.. originally designed to be a limo but somehow ended up being a supercar... Kinda a weird story aye hahahahah. Although 1200 nM and 700BHP. Sounds like the usual supercar... looks ugly from the side but meh. There is just something i don't get... why does a apparant supercar have 4 seats....

 

[Dave A]

II've thought a number of models looked pretty nice with the exception of the (I know live4speed is going to jump on me for this, but...) 106 and 306. I thought the 406 has to be the lovliest modern Peugeot of all time.

I quite like the 306 thank you very much . I do agree that 406 is a very fine looking car, and the 406 coupe is imo one of nicest looking cars ever.

 

[GM]

I love that body, I want it to be produced

 

[niky]

I like that new style of Peugeots lately. But then again, I'm biased...
I like the design of the 908, but the front of the 907 looks much better. I'd combine that front of the 907 with the other parts of the 908, but make the bonnet (front one, is it bonnet or hood?) somewhat longer... The 907 one was a bit too long.

EDIT: niky, I read a review of the 907 once... The reporter barely stayed alive after trying out the brakes on that car on public roads. Madness... From what I rememmber, it had a superstiff suspension, amazing acceleration, and way too strong brakes. It made them spin out...

I bought that magazine just for the delicious spreads of the 907. Actually, the brakes weren't that strong. It was faulty brake logic that made the rears lock up. Minor glitch. If Peugeot had a halo brand, they could've sold those cars for around a quarter million dollars each, and no one'd complain.

 

[Metar]

Oh. Alright... I just always connect lockups with too clampy brakes...

Peugeot really should start selling them. It'd shoot the image up...

 

[GT Pro]

Peugeot will build this, it's just a matter of when it hits the road. Too many times has a car manufacturer ditched a stunning prototype. Look at the performance and visually amazing Chrysler ME Four-Twelve; they didn't build it. Producing one of these will no doubt sky-rocket the brands image into some serious business and its rare that a supercar such as this will look good both on the road and in the showrooms.

 

[sutton.a]

Peugeot will build this, it's just a matter of when it hits the road. Too many times has a car manufacturer ditched a stunning prototype. Look at the performance and visually amazing Chrysler ME Four-Twelve; they didn't build it. Producing one of these will no doubt sky-rocket the brands image into some serious business and its rare that a supercar such as this will look good both on the road and in the showrooms.

Whats a supercar that doesn't look good both in showrooms and road?

 

[GT Pro]

In other words, a vehicle that looks promising in style but doesn't deliver on the road.

 

[Metar]

As that roadtest of the 907 that was mentioned before showed, the 907 not only looked stunning, but apart from a glitch in the braking-system, it was fantastic to drive (fast)... And Peugeot have a reputation for building cars with excellent Chassis and suspension... So I see no reason why the 908 will be a bad car to drive. Perhaps a bad car to drive outside smooth roads and in the city, but a car who is almost the same as the LMP on which it is based can't be bad to drive...

 

[harrytuttle]

In other words, a vehicle that looks promising in style but doesn't deliver on the road.

The only reason a concept will "fail to deliver" is if the manufacturer fails to deliver the car they put on stage. The Audi TT, Dodge Viper, and Bugatti Veyron are great examples of "delivered as promised". Inside & out, they were essentially unchanged from concept to delivery to the first owner.

Examples of "failure to deliver" are Lexus' IS430 (though not really their design), Ford/Shelby GR-1, and the ME412. They're all great cars, but the manufacturers simply wimped out. There's lots of other concepts that were (quite rightly) not delivered, and I thank them for that.