1987 Peugeot 505 STX

Peugeot is a legendary French automaker with a long, rich and successful history in France and Europe. It had a different story in North America, however. There cars weren't always the problem, but the public's perception of them was.

One example of their good cars was the 505. This was Peugeot's rear-wheel drive answer to Mercedes and BMW. It debuted in 1979 and last all the way until 1992, and even longer in other markets.

It's a classic European sedan design of the 70s. Huge greenhouse, long low hood and boot, and an overall clean, functional, appliance-like simplicity (enhanced on this example in flattering white paint). US versions did get downgraded headlights and larger bumpers but the main look of the car mercifully survived.

Inside, occupants were treated to an equally purposeful and business-like interior. The blue leather seats (remember when blue was an upholstery color?) look huge and cozy.

Underneath the hood of this example is a 2.8-liter 6-cylinder engine that the seller says was also in the Delorean. While it was not appreciated in that car, I'm sure it moves this Peugeot along fine. The automatic kills the mood somewhat, but the seller says the have a ton of extra parts, and perhaps could offer some pointers on a manual swap down the line. Speaking of swapping, they also say it has a spare Turbo engine.

Despite not being a success in the US, these cars were otherwise known for being solidly built cars that handled well and provided that legendary smooth French suspension. This car could use a bunch of tasteful improvements, or could be driven as is.

Available here on craigslist for $3,400.