Peugeot 404

Explore the photographic history of the Peugeot 404—once described as ‘one of the seven best cars in the world’.

Launched in 1960 and designed by Italian design house Pininfarina, the Peugeot 404 proved to be a highly successful model that helped to enhance Peugeot’s reputation for building durable cars. In this readable and comprehensive book, Peugeot 404 expert and registrar Rhys Nolan covers the development of all of the Peugeot 404 models and variants, both in France and abroad. The book describes the many changes that were made to the 404 models over the years, including the introduction of new engines and how Peugeot worked with Mercedes to introduce diesel engines to family cars. The book also describes the many variants on the basic saloon model, including the Commerciale, Break and seven-seat family estate cars.

In 1961, a convertible was launched which was widely praised for its elegant design. The book also covers exports to countries in the African continent, where the Peugeot 404’s strong suspension and durability made it a great success, and Argentina, where it was manufactured under license. The book also describes the success of the 404 in the East African Safari, which it won three times, and in Pan-American and Argentinian circuit racing. Including helpful advice for enthusiasts and owners, this is a concise, accessible and authoritative guide to a car once described as among the best in the world.