The Ultimate Guide to the Peugeot 504 Estate: A Timeless Classic

Introduction

The Peugeot 504 Estate, a legendary automobile renowned for its durability, versatility, and timeless style, has captivated drivers for decades. Produced from 1968 to 1983, it stands as a testament to Peugeot's engineering prowess and remains a highly sought-after classic today.

A Legacy of Durability

The 504 Estate's robust construction earned it a reputation for exceptional longevity. Its galvanized steel body and rugged chassis withstood the rigors of rough terrain, making it a trusted companion for families, adventurers, and rural communities alike. According to the Fédération Française des Véhicules d'Époque (FFVE), an estimated 43,000 504 Estates are still registered in France alone, a testament to its enduring appeal and reliability.

Versatile and Practical

Beyond its durability, the 504 Estate was renowned for its versatility. Its spacious interior and capacious trunk offered ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for both family trips and commercial purposes. The estate body style, with its elongated roofline, provided extra headroom and cargo capacity without sacrificing aerodynamics.

Table 1: Dimensions of Peugeot 504 Estate

Iconic Design

The 504 Estate's design, penned by renowned Italian designer Pininfarina, remains timeless and instantly recognizable. Its sleek and understated lines, combined with its distinctive chrome grille and taillights, exude an air of elegance and sophistication. The estate's elongated roofline, gently sloping rear end, and subtle curves create a harmonious and aerodynamic silhouette.

Engine Performance

Peugeot offered a range of gasoline and diesel engines for the 504 Estate. The gasoline options included 1.6-liter, 1.8-liter, and 2.0-liter units, while the diesel lineup consisted of 2.1-liter and 2.5-liter engines. The 2.0-liter gasoline engine produced a respectable 104 horsepower and 151 Nm of torque, while the 2.5-liter diesel engine offered 69 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. These engines provided adequate power for everyday driving and long-distance journeys, although the diesel option was known for its fuel efficiency and impressive torque output.

Table 2: Engine Specifications of Peugeot 504 Estate

Safety and Features

Despite its age, the 504 Estate offered a reasonable level of safety for its time. It featured standard disc brakes on the front wheels, while rear drum brakes were incorporated on later models. The estate also benefited from a rigid chassis and impact-absorbing materials in the interior, providing occupants with enhanced protection in the event of an accident.

In terms of features, the 504 Estate was relatively well-equipped. Standard amenities included a heater, adjustable seats, and a lockable glove box. Higher-trim levels added features such as electric windows, air conditioning, and a retractable sunroof, while a rear window wiper and heated rear window were available as optional extras.

Benefits of Owning a Peugeot 504 Estate

There are numerous reasons why owning a Peugeot 504 Estate remains an appealing proposition today.

• Reliability and Durability: The 504 Estate's legendary durability makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a long-lasting and dependable vehicle.
• Versatility: Its spacious interior and capacious trunk provide ample room for passengers, cargo, or both, making it an ideal companion for a wide range of activities.
• Timeless Design: The 504 Estate's elegant and distinctive design has stood the test of time, ensuring that it remains a head-turner even today.
• Investment Potential: Due to its rarity and classic status, the 504 Estate has become a sought-after collector's item and a potential investment opportunity.
• Enthusiast Community: There exists a thriving community of 504 enthusiasts who provide support, resources, and events for owners of these iconic vehicles.

Comparison with Contemporaries

The Peugeot 504 Estate faced competition from several contemporaries, including the Volkswagen Passat Variant, the Ford Cortina Estate, and the Volvo 240 Estate. While each of these vehicles had its own strengths and weaknesses, the 504 Estate stood out with its combination of durability, versatility, and style. Its generous interior space, robust construction, and distinctive design made it a popular choice among families, adventurers, and those seeking a dependable workhorse.

Effective Strategies for Maintaining and Repairing

Maintaining and repairing a Peugeot 504 Estate can be straightforward with the right approach.

• Preventive Maintenance: Regular servicing, including oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid replacements, is crucial to prolong the life of the vehicle.
• Seek Specialist Help: While it is possible to perform basic maintenance tasks yourself, for more complex repairs, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or restoration specialist.
• Use Genuine Parts: When replacing worn or damaged components, it is recommended to use genuine Peugeot parts or high-quality aftermarket equivalents to ensure proper fit and performance.
• Join an Enthusiast Club: Joining a 504 enthusiast club can provide access to valuable resources, technical advice, and support from fellow owners.
• Online Resources: Numerous online forums and websites offer a wealth of information, tutorials, and parts availability for the 504 Estate.

Table 3: Common Maintenance and Repair Tasks for Peugeot 504 Estate

Call to Action

If you are considering purchasing a Peugeot 504 Estate, do not hesitate to explore this legendary vehicle. Its durability, versatility, and timeless design make it an enduring classic that is sure to provide years of enjoyment. Whether you are an enthusiast, a collector, or simply seeking a reliable and stylish estate car, the 504 Estate is an exceptional choice that will leave a lasting impression.