The Peugeot 504 Estate: A Comprehensive Guide to Elegance, Versatility, and French Flair

The Peugeot 504 Estate, produced from 1971 to 2005, stands as a testament to the enduring charm and practicality of the classic French station wagon. With its sleek lines, spacious interior, and robust engineering, the 504 Estate has become a beloved choice for families, adventurers, and collectors alike.

Historical Significance

The Peugeot 504 was introduced in 1968 as a sedan and was an instant success, earning the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 1969. The estate version, which followed in 1971, further expanded the car's appeal, offering a versatile and practical option for those seeking both style and functionality.

Design and Style

The 504 Estate inherited the sedan's elegant and timeless design, characterized by its long hood, sloping roofline, and distinctive trapezoidal grille. The estate body added a spacious and versatile rear cargo area, ideal for hauling luggage, equipment, or even a family of seven.

Interior and Equipment

The 504 Estate's interior was both spacious and well-appointed, featuring comfortable seats, ample legroom, and a variety of amenities. Standard equipment included a four-speed manual transmission, power brakes, and reclining front seats. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a sunroof.

Powertrains and Performance

The 504 Estate was available with a range of gasoline and diesel engines, providing a balance of performance and fuel economy. The most common engine was the 2.0-liter gasoline unit, which produced 108 horsepower and could propel the car to a top speed of 112 mph. The 2.3-liter diesel engine, introduced in 1978, offered improved torque and fuel efficiency.

Handling and Driving Characteristics

The 504 Estate was renowned for its well-balanced handling and comfortable ride. Its independent front suspension and torsion bar rear suspension provided a smooth and compliant ride, while the rack-and-pinion steering offered responsive and precise handling.

Safety and Reliability

The 504 Estate was built to a high standard of safety and reliability, and it passed European crash tests with flying colors. The car also featured a variety of safety features, such as four-wheel disc brakes, crumple zones, and energy-absorbing steering column.

Benefits of Owning a Peugeot 504 Estate

Owning a Peugeot 504 Estate comes with a host of benefits, including:

• Versatility: The estate body provides ample cargo space, making it ideal for families, adventurers, and businesses.
• Style and Elegance: The 504 Estate is a timeless classic, combining French flair with understated elegance.
• Reliability and Durability: Peugeot's reputation for building robust and reliable vehicles is well-deserved, and the 504 Estate is no exception.
• Driving Pleasure: The 504 Estate offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience, with well-balanced handling and a smooth ride.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When purchasing or maintaining a Peugeot 504 Estate, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring Rust: The 504 Estate is prone to rust, especially in areas with high humidity. Regularly inspect the body for signs of corrosion and address any issues promptly.
• Overpaying for Parts: Original Peugeot parts can be expensive. Explore aftermarket options or used parts to save money on repairs and maintenance.
• Neglecting Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping the 504 Estate in top condition. Stick to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and use high-quality parts and fluids.

Tables

Table 1: Engine and Performance Specifications

Table 2: Trim Levels and Features

Table 3: Safety Features

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stylish and elegant: Timeless design with classic French flair.
• Versatile: Spacious cargo area for families, adventurers, and businesses.
• Reliable and durable: Built to Peugeot's high standards of quality and reliability.
• Comfortable and engaging: Well-balanced handling and smooth ride for enjoyable driving.
• Affordable: Relatively low purchase and maintenance costs compared to other classic station wagons.

Cons

• Prone to rust: Requires regular care to prevent corrosion.
• Limited performance: Gasoline engines are not particularly powerful.
• Can be hard to find: Production ended in 2005, so finding a well-maintained example can be challenging.
• Parts can be expensive: Original Peugeot parts can be costly, but aftermarket options are available.

Conclusion

The Peugeot 504 Estate is a timeless classic that combines style, versatility, and reliability in a uniquely French package. Whether you're looking for a practical family car, an adventurous companion, or a piece of automotive history, the 504 Estate is a worthy choice that will turn heads wherever you go. If you're fortunate enough to find a well-maintained example, don't hesitate to embrace the allure of this enduring automotive icon.