Peugeot 104 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Peugeot 104

The Peugeot 104 debuted in September 1972 as a compact, front-engine, front-wheel-drive car. Designed by Paolo Martin, the model was initially available only as a four-door saloon with a small boot lid. August 1973 saw the introduction of a shorter wheelbase, three-door variant. The 104 signified a shift to all-aluminium, water-cooled inline four-cylinder engines, where the engine and gearbox shared lubrication, and the block had a distinctive 72-degree rear tilt. In 1976, a five-door hatchback replaced the saloon. Several prototypes, such as an estate or pick-up, never made it to production, remaining unique to internal use at Peugeot. The 104 was also the first production vehicle assembled at Peugeot's Mulhouse facility and was never offered with a diesel engine.

Model History

The 104’s production run spanned from 1972 to 1988, filling an essential slot beneath larger Peugeots and providing a basis for future models. Early versions featured a 954 cc engine with 45 hp, expanded in later years to 1124 cc and further to 1360 cc, delivering up to 79 hp depending on the market. In July 1976, a model update brought a five-door configuration to the range. The 104 shared its platform with the Citroën LN/LNA and Talbot Samba, reflecting the trend for platform-sharing in the PSA group. Its successor was the Peugeot 205, introduced in 1983 and produced until 1989, which would go on to redefine Peugeot in the supermini segment.

Highlights and Statistical Supply & Demand

The Peugeot 104 stands out for its early adoption of lightweight aluminium engine design and a transverse powerplant with shared lubrication between engine and gearbox, a technical advancement at the time in the supermini class. In addition, the 104 was not available with a diesel, which set it apart from other Peugeots from its era. The vehicle's bodywork flexibility, with saloon and hatchback variants, makes it interesting from a collector’s perspective.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Although there were no official special editions in regular production, Peugeot experimented with various body styles in prototype form—estate, panel van, and pick-up versions. These remained unique to factory use and never reached the open market, making any traces of these prototypes highly notable. The five-door version, introduced in July 1976 via a larger tailgate option for the four-door, is often sought after by collectors for its practicality and rarity compared to earlier configurations.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 104’s lightweight aluminium engines and compact dimensions resulted in a nimble city driving experience, especially in the three-door models with shorter wheelbase. Early engines delivered 45 hp, and later units increased power to 53 hp (1124 cc) and up to 79 hp (1360 cc). The integrated gearbox-engine oiling system improved space efficiency but requires attentive maintenance to avoid cross-contamination. The 104 is known for light steering and responsive handling within the supermini class of its era. - Peugeot 104 ZS: Equipped with the 1360 cc engine, offering more dynamic performance for its segment.

• Peugeot 104 5-door: Introduced in 1976, appreciated for increased practicality while maintaining agility.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Peugeot 104 was penned by Paolo Martin, reflecting the angular, compact styling cues of early 1970s French design. Inside, materials were period-typical fabric and vinyl, with a focus on functional ergonomics. The five-door layout introduced in 1976 enhanced utility. The instrument panel and interior details, while basic, provided easy readability and straightforward operation. No outstanding special accessories or luxury options were offered, underscoring the model’s utilitarian approach. Unique design features include the sharply-angled rear and efficient use of space, maximising interior volume for its size.

Summary

Produced from 1972 to 1988, the Peugeot 104 carved out a unique place in compact car history through its advanced engineering and variety of bodystyles. While never officially available in diesel or estate form, its technical solutions—such as the all-aluminium engine and integrated gearbox—together with its pronounced compact form, still attract enthusiasts. The high share of listings and user views in the current market underlines this sustained niche interest.