Peugeot 404

Introduction

The Peugeot 404 is a mid-size family car produced from 1960 to 1975, designed by the renowned Italian studio Pininfarina. It was available in multiple body styles, including sedan, coupe, cabriolet, estate, and pickup, making it one of Peugeot’s most versatile models. Known for its elegance, durability, and comfort, the 404 became highly successful across Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Its robust engineering allowed it to thrive in diverse climates and markets.

Exterior

The Peugeot 404 carried a timeless and elegant exterior design. Its sharp lines, thin chrome grille, and rectangular proportions gave it a sophisticated presence. The coupe and cabriolet versions, styled by Pininfarina, offered Italian flair with French engineering. The estate and pickup versions focused more on practicality but retained the stylish Peugeot DNA. The 404’s design still stands as one of Peugeot’s classics.

Interior

Inside, the Peugeot 404 offered a refined and spacious cabin for its era. The dashboard was clean and functional, with simple dials and chrome accents. Depending on the trim, interiors ranged from practical cloth finishes to leather upholstery in luxury versions. The comfortable seating and spacious boot made it a reliable family car, while the coupe and cabriolet versions emphasized luxury and style.

Safety Features

For the 1960s, the 404 incorporated basic safety elements such as seatbelts, strong chassis construction, and reliable braking systems. Its lightweight yet durable frame helped provide a stable ride. Later models added disc brakes at the front, improving stopping power. While it lacked modern safety technologies, the 404 offered reassuring safety for its time.

Engine Trims

The Peugeot 404 was offered with a wide range of engines, including petrol units from 1.5L to 1.9L, and later diesel options that were popular for their fuel efficiency. Some versions featured fuel injection, which was advanced for its era. Transmission choices included 4-speed manual, automatic, and column-mounted gear levers. The engine lineup made the 404 suitable for both city driving and long-distance touring.

Maintenance

The 404 gained a reputation for exceptional durability and ease of maintenance. Its mechanical simplicity made it easy to repair, even in developing markets. Regular oil changes, brake servicing, and clutch adjustments were sufficient to keep it running reliably. Its robustness is why the 404 remained popular for decades in African and Latin American taxi fleets.

Competitors

The Peugeot 404 competed with cars like the Fiat 1500, Renault 16, Ford Cortina, and Volkswagen Beetle. While rivals offered different advantages, the 404 distinguished itself with its combination of elegant design, rugged engineering, and versatility. It became a global success story, cementing Peugeot’s reputation for building durable family cars.