The Peugeot 204 is a small family car produced by the French automaker Peugeot from 1962 to 1973. It was designed as a replacement for the Peugeot 203 and marked a significant evolution in terms of design and engineering within the company.
Design and Features
Characterized by its sleek, aerodynamic body style, the 204 featured a sharp pointed front end, distinctive chrome-plated grille, and wrap-around headlights that gave it an unmistakable appearance on the road. The rear had a more angular profile with two separate taillights at each side. This new design was influenced heavily by the Peugeot 404 model of its time.
The interior offered ample space for passengers and their luggage. The dashboard featured analog instrumentation, including speedometer, fuel gauge, and oil pressure warning light, providing drivers with essential information about vehicle status. A notable feature in terms of comfort and technology for its era was the presence of an optional radio system.
Engine and Performance
The 204 came equipped with several engine options over its lifespan to cater to different market needs. Initially, it was offered with a 1.1-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine producing about 47 horsepower (35 kW). Later models included more powerful versions such as the 1.4-liter "Type AH" and other variations up to a 1.6-liter "Type AE". The performance, though modest by modern standards, was sufficient for city driving conditions where most of its potential buyers would have operated their vehicles.
Mechanical and Technical Aspects
The Peugeot 204 utilized front-wheel drive layout, which became the norm in many compact cars due to its practicality and space efficiency. It featured a semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension system known as "De Dion," a concept first introduced by Henry de Dion of Paris. This provided stability under cornering conditions.
Sales and Legacy
The Peugeot 204 enjoyed moderate success during its production run, appealing primarily due to its compact dimensions, affordability, and reliability in the face of rising fuel prices. The model played an important role in Peugeot's lineup before giving way to more modern vehicles that offered improved performance and efficiency standards.
Despite being discontinued, it remains a notable example of automotive design evolution from the early 1960s through the mid-1970s.
