Peugeot’s Nod to the Net: Remembering the Roland garros Editions
while Renault has been the premium partner of the Roland Garros tournament since 2022, many remember Peugeot’s long-standing association with the prestigious clay court event. For years, the French automaker celebrated its partnership by releasing limited “Roland Garros” editions of its vehicles, which have now become sought-after classics.
A Retrospective on Peugeot’s Roland Garros Series
As top tennis players gather in Paris, it’s a fitting time to look back at some of the most iconic Peugeot models that sported the Roland Garros badge. These “youngtimers” are increasingly popular among car collectors.
Peugeot 205 Roland Garros (1989): The Inaugural Edition
Peugeot’s involvement with the Roland Garros tournament dates back to 1984, but it wasn’t until 1989 that the first official Roland Garros edition car was launched. This followed a special edition of the Citroën CX two years prior.
Launched just weeks before Michael Chang’s historic victory, peugeot introduced a revamped version of its 205 XS. Powered by a 1.4-liter, 85-horsepower engine, this special edition was distinguished by unique aesthetic features that would become hallmarks of subsequent Roland Garros models. These included a metallic green body, mixed leather and fabric upholstery, and ochre-colored accents reminiscent of clay courts.
The original 205 Roland Garros also featured exclusive alloy wheels and a sunroof. In 1990, the 205 convertible was launched in the colors of the Parisian tournament, further cementing the success of peugeot’s Roland Garros editions. At the time, the convertible retailed for 104,000 francs.
Peugeot’s roland Garros Editions: A Look at Collectible Classics
for years, Peugeot has celebrated its partnership with the prestigious Roland Garros French Open by releasing special edition vehicles. These models, instantly recognizable with their unique aesthetics and tennis-inspired features, have become coveted by collectors. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable Peugeot Roland Garros editions and why they’re worth watching.
Peugeot 106 Roland Garros (1993): The Rising Youngtimer
following the success of the 205 and 405 series, the “6” series received the roland Garros treatment. The Peugeot 106, the 205’s successor, was adorned with the signature Roland Garros style.
The 106 Roland Garros was easily identifiable by its distinctive bottle green paint, accented with a white stripe along the doors and tailgate. The interior featured white “Acelet” upholstery, ochre seatbelts, and “RG” logos on the floor mats.
The 106 came with a modest 1.4-liter,75-horsepower engine. Later models included upgrades such as heated electric mirrors, air conditioning, and airbags. A 1.6-liter engine with an automatic transmission was introduced in 1996 after a facelift.
Now over 30 years old, the bottle green 106 is considered a classic, making it one of the youngtimers to watch.Originally priced at 85,500 francs in 1993, this model is expected to increase in value.
Peugeot 206 CC Roland Garros (2002): The Most Desirable Convertible
The Peugeot 206 CC made a splash in 2000 with its retractable roof,inspired by the Mercedes SLK.
Two years later,the 206 CC joined the Roland Garros lineup,boasting the collection’s hallmark aesthetics and RG accents. As Europe’s best-selling coupé convertible, it followed the footsteps of the 306 convertible, also considered a standout in the Peugeot Roland Garros series.
the 206 CC Roland garros offered two engine options: a 1.6-liter 16V with 110 horsepower and a 2.0-liter 16V with 138 hp. Priced at approximately €20,000 (equivalent to 131,000 francs at the time), it represented a important investment for enthusiasts.
Peugeot and Roland Garros: A 30-Year Automotive Partnership
For over three decades, Peugeot has celebrated its partnership with the prestigious Roland Garros French Open by releasing special edition vehicles. These models, easily identifiable by the Roland Garros badging, have spanned a wide range of Peugeot’s lineup, adding a touch of tennis elegance to everyday cars.
A History of Special Editions
The collaboration has produced a variety of models over the years. From the 405 sedan to the compact 108 and even the 806 minivan, the Roland Garros treatment has graced a variety of cars. Though, some models have proven more memorable than others.
Iconic Roland Garros Peugeots
Certain Peugeot models have become particularly associated with the Roland Garros edition. These cars, often featuring unique color schemes, branded upholstery, and special equipment, have become sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts.
The long-standing partnership between Peugeot and Roland Garros continues to connect the worlds of automotive engineering and elite tennis.
What makes the Peugeot 106 roland Garros a desirable collectible for car enthusiasts?
Peugeot and Roland Garros: Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did Peugeot’s partnership with Roland Garros begin?
A: While Peugeot’s association with the tournament dates back to 1984, the first official Roland Garros edition car, the 205, was launched in 1989.
Q: What were the key design features of the Peugeot 205 Roland Garros?
A: The 205 Roland Garros was distinguished by its metallic green body, mixed leather and fabric upholstery, ochre-colored accents, exclusive alloy wheels, and a sunroof. Thes features set the tone for subsequent models.
Q: Which other Peugeot models received the Roland Garros treatment?
A: Other notable models include the 106, 206 CC, 405, and even the 108 and 806.The 306 convertible was also considered a standout.
Q: What makes the Peugeot 106 Roland Garros a collectible?
A: The 106 Roland Garros is known for its distinctive bottle green paint, white stripe, white “Acelet” upholstery, ochre seatbelts and “RG” logos. Being over 30 years old, it’s now considered a classic and a “youngtimer” to watch, and it’s expected to increase in value.
Q: What engine options were available for the 206 CC Roland garros?
A: The 206 CC Roland Garros offered two engine options: a 1.6-liter 16V with 110 horsepower and a 2.0-liter 16V with 138 hp.
Fascinating Trivia
- The Peugeot 205 Roland Garros was launched just weeks before Michael Chang’s historic victory.
- The Peugeot 206 CC Roland Garros was Europe’s best-selling coupé convertible.
Actionable Advice
If you’re a car collector, consider adding a Peugeot Roland Garros edition to your collection, especially the 205 or 106 models, as their value is likely to appreciate.
Inspired by this look back at Peugeot’s partnership with Roland Garros? Start your search for a classic today!
