1999 Peugeot 106 S16 “Maxi’. Lightweight French Hot Hatch with Rally-Inspired Upgrades

Offered here is a 1999 Peugeot 106 S16, a late-production example of one of the most celebrated lightweight hot-hatch platforms of the 1990s. With just 149k km (93k miles) and several tasteful performance upgrades, this car captures the playful spirit of Peugeot’s rally-inspired superminis.

Powered by the 1.6-liter TU5J4 DOHC 16-valve engine producing approximately 120 horsepower, the S16 is widely regarded as the performance pinnacle of the 106 range. With well under one tonne to move, the chassis delivers lively acceleration, sharp turn-in, and exceptional driver engagement.

This example has been enhanced with several period-appropriate modifications inspired by the legendary Peugeot 106 Maxi rally car.

Performance & Modifications

Exterior / Body

• Maxi-style widebody fender flares

• Matching front and rear bumpers

• Rear spoiler

The look references the Peugeot 106 Maxi rally car, a wide-bodied Group A/N rally machine developed for European competition.

Wheels

• Steffan / BCW deep-dish alloy wheels

These period-correct wheels fill the flared arches and give the car a proper late-1990s European tuning aesthetic.

Suspension

• Koni performance shock absorbers

A well-known upgrade for the 106 platform, improving control while retaining road usability.

Exhaust / Engine

• Performance header

• Remus sport muffler

The setup provides a sharper exhaust note while maintaining reliability and drivability.

Driver Interface

• Short-shift kit

• PeugeotSport tachometer

Both upgrades enhance the driver connection and reinforce the motorsport character of the car.

Driving Experience

The Peugeot 106 has long been praised as one of the most engaging front-wheel-drive chassis ever built. Its compact dimensions, light weight, and responsive suspension geometry make it a favorite among enthusiasts, rally drivers, and track-day regulars.

The S16 variant adds the 16-valve TU5 engine, delivering stronger mid-range power and a higher redline compared to the Rallye models, making it the fastest factory 106 variant while still retaining the car’s lightweight charm.

Condition

This example presents as a clean and honest driver.

• Odometer: 149,000 km (93,000 miles)

• Engine runs strongly with smooth power delivery

• Suspension and steering feel tight and responsive

• Interior remains tidy and driver-focused

• Exterior modifications are well integrated with the car’s rally-inspired look

Mileage may increase slightly with occasional use.

Specifications

Year: 1999
Make: Peugeot
Model: 106 S16 (GTi)
Body Style: 3-door hatchback
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Engine: 1.6L DOHC 16-valve TU5J4
Mileage: 149,000 km / 93,000 miles
Exterior: Blue
Interior: Black

VIN: VF31CNFXE52357214

Why the 106 S16

Among compact European performance cars, the Peugeot 106 remains one of the most celebrated driver’s cars of its era. Light weight, mechanical simplicity, and an eager 16-valve engine combine to create a pure, analog hot-hatch driving experience increasingly rare today.

This particular example adds period-style rally aesthetics and performance upgrades, making it an especially entertaining interpretation of the platform.

 More info:

• Evo Peugeot 106 Rallye
• Hotcars – buying-a-peugeot-106-rallye-or-gti
• Auto Express peugeot-106-rallye-best-ever-peugeot-sport-cars
• Peugeot-106-rallye-buying-guide
• http://www.106rallyeforum.com
• Peugeot 106 Rallye 1.3 – Davide Cironi Drive Experience
• Top Gear – Peugeot
• FIA Homologation 5505 / (106 Rallye 1300 Gr.N)