On this day in auto history - October 3rd

Sun 3rd Oct 2021

It was on this day in 1968 that Peugeot first unveiled the 504 - the highly-acclaimed vehicle which would go on to become the best-selling model in the manufacturer’s history.

The mid-sized, four door saloon offered a very conservative mechanical package and quickly drew praise for its robust body structure, roomy interior and an upmarket feel which felt different from its immediate predecessors.

Such was its popularity, the 504 was elected Car of The Year in 1969 and new body variations quickly followed - coupe, estate, convertible, pick-up - all helping to accelerate sales during a single generation of the vehicle which lasted until 1983.

A feature of the 504 was its diverse popularity in far-flung, rough terrain countries - including Brazil, Argentina, Kenya and Nigeria - which saw production switched to Africa and Asia after the vehicle was largely phased out in Europe during the mid 1980’s.