The evolution of Peugeot vehicles will be on display at the Rétromobile Salon in Paris

The steps leading up to a brand’s success are admirable , all the more so when they are well known. This is something we can see reflected in Peugeot, a company whose vehicles have progressively evolved to reach its current position. Thanks to the Rétromobile Salon in Paris, we will be able to witness the presence of various iconic models from the brand of the Lion. From the Type 5 to a small 205 GTi, they will all be there, and today we are going to take a brief look at each and every one of these models.

The French company claims to be one of the longest-established in the history of the motor industry, since it has more than 200 years behind it. It was founded in 1807, and it was not until 1976 that Peugeot absorbed Citroën to create the PSA Group we know today. To demonstrate this and the long process of the brand’s expansion, Peugeot is showcasing models from the past, present and future at the Rétromobile.

The Peugeot Type 5 is a very exclusive and, at the same time, old model from the company, since it dates back to the late 19th century. Only 14 units were built between 1893 and 1894, so its value has risen considerably. Inside it hid a 565 cc engine capable of producing 2 CV, which was increased to 3 CV so that it could take part in certain races.

Another model from the French company that will be present at the Rétromobile is the Peugeot 504, a saloon whose design and features are much more modern, and in it we can observe the brand’s trends of the time. This model celebrates its 50th anniversary, and there is certainly reason to celebrate, since more than three million units were produced and in some countries such as Nigeria its manufacture continued until 2010.

At the same time, the Peugeot 203 is also celebrating, since it marks its 70th anniversary. This model was unveiled in 1948 and was the French company’s response to its plans after the end of the Second World War. For five years it was the only model manufactured by Peugeot, but the 203 was a key vehicle in helping to recover strength after the war.

And from the postwar period we move straight to the 1960s, a time of great change. As the lion brand’s representative during these years we find the Peugeot 404 Cabrio, a beautiful sports car designed by the renowned Italian studio Pininfarina. It is also worth highlighting that the unit present at the Rétromobile has a hardtop, a rarely requested option that makes it even more special.

We now move directly to a period that will sound more familiar to everyone, that of the hot hatchbacks. Undoubtedly, we must mention the Peugeot 205 GTi, a small compact that had sporty performance. The 205 had a 1.9-litre, four-cylinder engine capable of delivering 130 CV of power, a figure more than enough to make this little French warrior fly.

Without a doubt, we are looking at an impressive collection, which brings together pieces of the history of Peugeot and of how it became what it is today. As we have mentioned, this exhibition will be at the Rétromobile in Paris until 11 February, making it the ideal occasion to immerse yourself in automotive history and enjoy a pleasant evening alongside these very special vehicles.