206 RC
The Peugeot 206 RC features EW10J4S 2.0-liter engine with variable valve timing producing 177 horsepower (130 kW) at 7,000 rpm and 149 lb-ft torque at 4,750 rpm through five-speed manual gearbox, achieving 0-62 mph in 7.4 seconds and 137 mph top speed. Designated 206 GTi 180 in UK market and 206 RC in European markets, introduced 2003 with 17-inch alloy wheels, racing bucket seats, and short-shift gear linkage with altered gearbox ratios.
Modified inlet and exhaust manifolds plus aggressive camshaft profiles enable high-revving naturally-aspirated performance in lightweight hot hatch platform, establishing Peugeot performance credentials in early 2000s super-mini segment. The 206 RC represents final evolution of successful 206 platform before transition to 207 generation, with enthusiast following for direct steering feel and engaging chassis dynamics despite front-wheel-drive torque steer characteristics under hard acceleration.