Peugeot 604

Introduction

The Peugeot 604 is an executive sedan produced between 1975 and 1985, designed to compete in the luxury car segment. Positioned above the Peugeot 504 and 505, it marked Peugeot’s return to the large luxury market. Styled by Pininfarina, the 604 offered French elegance combined with comfort and refinement. It was especially popular among government officials and business executives, symbolizing prestige within Peugeot’s lineup.

Exterior

The Peugeot 604 carried a formal and sophisticated exterior design. Its sharp lines, wide stance, and upright proportions reflected European executive car styling of the 1970s. The chrome accents, large headlights, and Peugeot’s distinctive grille enhanced its premium image. The long wheelbase emphasized comfort and presence, making it stand out among luxury sedans of its time.

Interior

Inside, the 604 provided a luxurious and spacious cabin with high-quality finishes. Upholstery options included plush velour and leather in higher trims. The dashboard was elegant, with wood accents and well-placed controls. Comfortable seating for five adults and generous legroom in the rear made it ideal for long-distance journeys. Higher-spec versions also included advanced features such as air conditioning and premium audio systems.

Safety Features

For its time, the Peugeot 604 offered advanced safety features including reinforced crumple zones, seatbelts for all passengers, and effective braking systems. Later models introduced ABS brakes and improved structural rigidity. While lacking modern driver-assist systems, the 604 delivered a safe and stable driving experience compared to its contemporaries.

Engine Trims

The Peugeot 604 was offered with a variety of petrol and diesel engines, ranging from 2.0L to 2.8L. One of its most notable achievements was being among the first European executive sedans available with a turbo-diesel engine, which became popular for its fuel efficiency. Petrol versions included the PRV V6 engine, developed jointly by Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo, which provided smooth performance.

Maintenance

The 604 was relatively straightforward to maintain for a luxury car, though parts availability varied depending on the region. Routine maintenance included oil changes, brake servicing, and attention to the PRV V6 engine’s timing system. Its durability allowed many 604s to remain in service for decades, especially in government fleets.

Competitors

The Peugeot 604 competed with executive sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class/W123, BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Audi 100, and Rover SD1. While German rivals offered more advanced engineering, the 604 distinguished itself with French elegance, ride comfort, and the introduction of turbo-diesel technology in the luxury segment.