The Peugeot Quasar was a concept car unveiled in 1984, created by young designers at the Centre de Style Peugeot in La Garenne. It was presented as an exploration of styling and engineering possibilities rather than a strict research exercise, and it has been seen as an early hint of the sports car ambitions that would later lead Peugeot into Group C racing in 1990.
The Quasar took the form of a low, aggressive two-seat sports coupe with a mid-mounted engine. The engine and gearbox unit was installed transversely and openly in a recess behind the seats, exposing the mechanical layout much like a motorcycle. Power came from a 4-cylinder engine with double overhead camshafts, 16 valves, and twin turbochargers, producing 600 hp and close to 500 Nm of torque. Two large exhaust outlets emerged beneath the rear wing that connected the bodysides. Drive went through a 5-speed gearbox to all four wheels, split 40 percent front and 60 percent rear, with differential brakes fitted at both ends.
Suspension used double wishbones at each corner, supporting an aerodynamic body with a low front end, and all four wheels had ventilated disc brakes. It rode on 16-inch wheels fitted with Michelin MXX tires sized 255/50. The body was built from carbon fiber and Kevlar, with access through scissor-type doors. The cabin, set beneath a glass canopy, was trimmed in dark blue and red leather and featured a Clarion-developed digital instrument display, a fault-warning system, navigation equipment, and video and compact disc playback.
