Peugeot 106 I (1A/C) (1991 – 1996)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Peugeot 106 Phase I (internal code 1A for 3-door, 1C for 5-door) was introduced in September 1991 as the modern successor to the 104, positioned slightly below the aging but highly successful 205. Sharing its platform with the Citroën AX but featuring a stiffer, heavier, and safer body, the 106 quickly became a benchmark for handling and ride comfort in the supermini segment. This generation spans the transition from carbureted engines to electronic fuel injection (mandated by Euro 1 emissions standards in 1993). While petrol engines (TU series) were the volume sellers, the diesel variants are particularly notable. The early 1.4D (TUD3) was notoriously fragile, but its replacement, the 1.5D (TUD5) introduced in late 1994, is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and economical na

✅ Strengths

Exceptional fuel economy on the 1.5D engine (often exceeding 60 mpg / under 5.0 L/100km)
Outstanding chassis dynamics, ride comfort, and handling
Mechanical simplicity makes DIY maintenance very easy and cheap
Excellent visibility and compact dimensions for city driving
1.5D engine is capable of astronomical mileages (300,000+ km) if serviced

⚠️ Weaknesses

Rear axle (train arrière) needle bearings fail, causing rear wheels to tilt inwards (expensive fix)
1.4D engine is highly prone to head gasket failure
Poor crash safety standards compared to modern vehicles (thin pillars, lack of airbags on early models)
Interior plastics are flimsy, prone to rattling and cracking with UV exposure
Rust protection is better than the 205, but boot floors, inner wings, and sills can still rot

🎯 Verdict

The Peugeot 106 Phase I is a quintessential 90s French supermini: brilliant to drive, cheaply built, and mechanically characterful. If you are specifically looking for a diesel, the distinction between the two available engines is critical. Avoid the 1.4D (TUD3) at all costs due to its inherent head gasket flaws. However, the 1.5D (TUD5) is an absolute must-buy if you want a retro, ultra-economical daily driver. It is one of the most robust small diesels ever made. When buying, your primary focus should not be the engine (if it's a 1.5D or a petrol TU), but rather the condition of the rear axle and the presence of structural rust. Find a rust-free 1.5D with a healthy rear axle, and you have a car that will outlast many modern vehicles.