The Peugeot PRV 2.7L is a 2,664 cc, 90° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1974 and 1997. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a cast-iron block with alloy heads. In standard Peugeot applications, it produced 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) and 210–220 Nm of torque, offering a blend of smooth power and grand touring refinement.
Fitted to flagship models like the 604 sedan and 505 sedan/SW, the PRV was engineered for quiet, effortless cruising and strong mid-range pull. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through carburetion or electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting pre-Euro or early Euro 1 standards depending on model year and market.
A documented concern involves premature failure of the timing chain tensioners, which can lead to chain slack, noise, and potential valve damage. This issue, referenced in Peugeot Technical Note TN‑06/1985, is often linked to hydraulic pressure loss in the tensioner pistons. Later production units incorporated revised tensioner designs for improved durability.

Production years 1974–1988 meet pre-Euro standards; 1989–1997 models may have early Euro 1 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5673).
The Peugeot PRV 2.7L is a 2,664 cc 90° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship sedans and estates (1974-1997). It combines a robust SOHC valvetrain with either carburetion or electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed for its era's emissions standards, it prioritizes refinement and durability for long-distance driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,664 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 73.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 210–220 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor or Bosch L-Jetronic | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Early Euro 1 (market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual chains) | |
| Oil type | Mineral 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 160 kg |
The 90° V6 design provides inherent smoothness but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing chain and tensioner inspection intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. The hydraulic tensioners are a known weak point; any rattling noise from the front of the engine should be investigated immediately per TN-06/1985. Use only mineral 10W-40 oil as specified, as synthetic oils were not formulated for these older engine seals. Carbureted versions demand regular adjustment for optimal performance.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 10W-40 specification for compatibility with engine seals (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1985).
Emissions: Certification varies from pre-Euro to early Euro 1 depending on model year and market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5673).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output varies by fuel system and model year (Peugeot Technical Note TN-06/1985).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 0627.PR, TN-06/1985
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5673)
The Peugeot PRV 2.7L was used in Peugeot's flagship PR platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations within Peugeot, ensuring broad parts interchangeability across its model range. All service procedures are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the front face of the left cylinder bank, near the timing cover (Peugeot Workshop Manual 0627.PR). The displacement '2.7' is also cast into the intake manifold. Visually, it can be identified by its distinctive 90° V6 layout, dual timing chain covers at the front, and the presence of either a carburetor or Bosch L-Jetronic fuel rail. Differentiate from the later 3.0L PRV by checking the bore size or displacement casting on the block.
The PRV 2.7L's primary reliability risk is hydraulic timing chain tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 100,000 km. Peugeot internal reports linked a significant number of failures to internal piston wear, while workshop data shows carburetor and fuel injection faults are common in neglected examples. Adherence to the timing chain service schedule and prompt diagnosis of front-end noises is critical to prevent engine damage.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1974-1997) and workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT PRV-2-7L.
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