Peugeot is one of the most prolific OEMs when it comes to fantastic halo concepts. These very rarely are the lightly dressed-up versions of future production cars that other manufacturers trot out these days. They are pure and simple fantasy looks into the future.

Often, though, these concepts are a fun and lavish way to preview actual design themes and styles that will make it to the brand’s mini hatchbacks in the coming years.

And so it was with this 908 RC. Running the powertrain of the 908 HDi FAP Le Mans car, the 908 RC shows some slinky style with its bubble-canopy windshield and roof, heavy lashings of chrome and a length that matches US pickup trucks closer than it does European executive limousines.

Some real downsides exist in the 908 RC, ones both outside Peugeot’s control like the long rear overhang and oddly long trunktop. Others were under Peugeot’s control: like the extreme cab-forward design and mini front hood. This makes it look a bit like a giant Dodge Intrepid from the 1990s, which is not sexy or premium. The bizarre proportions overall are a reminder why Bugatti cannot make a four-door version of its mid-engine Veyron legend.

That being said, the proportions are definitely a challenge — but not impossible. The unselected 908RC designs above might make a nice Bugatti.

The worst sin of the 908 RC is making Peugeot’s 2007-2013 design themes seem okay: giant, huge chrome headlamps taking half each side of the noses, and a giant gaping mouth in the lower grille. Once they hit the road, these styles are were some of the worst on the roads.

So the 908 RC is a fun fantasy on one hand, but a scary reality on the other hand. Not a total win, in other words.

2006 Peugeot 908 RC