22/12/2001
The Peugeot 107, a familiar face in the city car segment, often prompts the question: "How much does a Peugeot 107 cost?" While it shares its fundamental DNA with the Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo, its pricing can be a decisive factor for potential buyers. This article delves into the cost of the Peugeot 107, examining its position within the B Zero partnership and what sets it apart, or rather, what makes it less appealing from a purely financial perspective, when stacked against its counterparts.
Understanding the B Zero Partnership
The Peugeot 107 is a product of a well-known collaboration, often referred to as the B Zero partnership, involving PSA Peugeot Citroën and Toyota. This alliance resulted in three virtually identical cars: the Citroën C1, the Peugeot 107, and the Toyota Aygo. They share the same underpinnings, engines, and a significant portion of their design. This shared development strategy is aimed at reducing manufacturing costs and offering more affordable vehicles to consumers. The core philosophy behind these cars is to provide a no-frills, economical solution for urban driving, making no apologies for their budget-friendly nature.
Peugeot 107 vs. Citroën C1: A Price Discrepancy
When directly comparing the Peugeot 107 to its closest sibling, the Citroën C1, the most significant differentiator often comes down to price and subtle styling tweaks. While both are lauded as terrific little cars, the 107, unfortunately, tends to falter in the crucial area of affordability when compared to the C1. At their respective base, option-free prices, the Peugeot 107 was typically priced higher than the Citroën C1. For instance, a common scenario saw the Aygo, with its Yaris-like appearance, launching at £6,745. The sharper-looking C1 often presented an even more attractive proposition at £6,495. However, the Peugeot 107 would then enter the market at a higher point, frequently around £7,145. This price difference, though seemingly minor in the grand scheme of automotive purchases, can be substantial for the target demographic of city cars, where value for money is paramount.
Aesthetic Considerations
Beyond the price tag, the decision between the 107 and the C1 can also hinge on subjective styling preferences. While the article notes that the C1 possesses a "sharper-looking" design, the Peugeot 107's appearance is described as being somewhat less appealing. The subtle styling changes that differentiate the 107 from the C1 are designed to align with Peugeot's in-house design language. However, in this particular comparison, these changes did not translate into a more desirable aesthetic for the majority, particularly when factoring in the higher cost. Ultimately, what makes you plump for one and not the other will often come down to a personal agenda or the proximity of one dealership over another, rather than a clear superiority in design or features.
When Does the Peugeot 107 Make Sense?
Given the pricing and styling discrepancies, the article suggests that unless a buyer has a specific loyalty to the Peugeot brand or an older Peugeot model to trade in (like a 106), there's little compelling reason to opt for the 107 over the C1. However, if you do fall into either of these categories, the good news is that the 107 matches up in all the vital areas. It offers a "big-car feel" within a compact city car package, a significant achievement for its class. Furthermore, with a few hundred pounds difference, it remains a very cheap car overall. This means that even with the higher initial outlay, the 107 still delivers on its core promise of providing an affordable and practical urban transport solution.
Despite the pricing issues, it's important to acknowledge the inherent strengths of the Peugeot 107, which it shares with its B Zero siblings:
- Compact Dimensions: Ideal for navigating narrow city streets and parking in tight spaces.
- Fuel Efficiency: Typically equipped with small, economical engines that deliver excellent miles per gallon, making them cheap to run.
- Low Running Costs: Insurance groups are generally low, and maintenance is usually straightforward and affordable.
- Maneuverability: A tight turning circle makes them incredibly agile in urban environments.
- Surprising Interior Space: For their size, they often offer a decent amount of interior room and boot space, especially for occasional use.
Making the Final Decision
The decision between the Peugeot 107 and the Citroën C1 often boils down to a simple equation: price versus brand loyalty and personal preference. If pure financial sense is the primary driver, the Citroën C1, being the cheaper option, makes the most sense. However, the Peugeot 107 is not a car that will disappoint. Quite the opposite, in fact. It offers the same fundamental qualities of affordability, practicality, and a surprisingly mature driving experience for its segment. The choice is therefore less about which car is objectively better and more about which one aligns best with your individual circumstances, budget, and dealership proximity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much did a new Peugeot 107 typically cost?
At launch, the Peugeot 107 was generally priced around £7,145 for the base model, making it more expensive than its Citroën C1 sibling.
Q2: What is the B Zero partnership?
The B Zero partnership is a collaboration between PSA Peugeot Citroën and Toyota, which produced the Peugeot 107, Citroën C1, and Toyota Aygo, sharing most of their mechanicals and design.
Q3: Is the Peugeot 107 a good city car?
Yes, the Peugeot 107 is considered a very good city car due to its compact size, excellent maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and low running costs.
Q4: Why was the Peugeot 107 more expensive than the Citroën C1?
The exact reasons for the price difference are not explicitly stated, but it could be attributed to branding strategies, minor styling differentiations, or dealership pricing policies. However, the article suggests it was a notable discrepancy.
Q5: What are the main advantages of the Peugeot 107?
Its main advantages include its compact size, agile handling in urban environments, good fuel economy, and a surprisingly solid feel for a small car.
Comparative Pricing Table (Illustrative)
The following table provides an illustrative comparison of the initial pricing. Please note that actual prices could vary based on trim levels, optional extras, and regional variations at the time of purchase.
| Vehicle | Approximate Base Price (GBP) | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Aygo | £6,745 | Yaris-like styling |
| Citroën C1 | £6,495 | Sharper design, most affordable |
| Peugeot 107 | £7,145 | Peugeot styling, higher price point |
In conclusion, while the Peugeot 107 is a competent and enjoyable city car, its higher price point compared to the Citroën C1 means that for many budget-conscious buyers, the C1 often presents a more sensible choice. However, for those with a specific affinity for the Peugeot brand, the 107 still offers a compelling package of urban practicality and efficiency.
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