The Peugeot 504, one of the brand's most iconic models, turns 50 years old

Over the years, the history of the automobile has left behind some of the most iconic models of all time and, on occasion, these vehicles make such an impression that the brands themselves insist on continuing to create successors. In this case we find the Peugeot 504, a model that turns 50 years old since its creation and, despite its longevity, the French firm intends to keep its essence intact with its contemporary models.

We must go back to the 1968 Geneva Motor Show, the year in which Peugeot unveiled one of the quintessential saloons of the time, the 504. This vehicle would mark a before and after in the history of the lion brand, since it was one of the first French models to stand up to the feared Mercedes and BMW of the era. The 504 achieved this thanks to a great combination of technology, comfort and mechanics, a mix very common in the vehicles of Peugeot.

The most groundbreaking aspect of this new French saloon was its design, since the person behind the 504’s styling was none other than Pininfarina. One of the elements of the Peugeot on which the Italian designer worked hardest was its headlights, since the aim was to break away from the already classic rounded optics. Instead, they opted for a trapezoidal design, which reminded people of a woman’s eyes.

In this way, the Peugeot 504 managed to combine all the best of Italian design with French technology and mechanics, a set of elements that delivered a magnificent result, which subsequent generations have gradually inherited. At the same time, it offered its customers a set of standard features unheard of in other vehicles in its class, such as leather upholstery, disc brakes, power steering or seat belts, among others.

The mechanical performance of the Peugeot 504 also exceeded its customers’ expectations, since it was capable of reaching speeds above 160 km/h and, at the same time, offered an advanced and modern suspension capable of absorbing all the imperfections of the road. In short, the French saloon presented itself as the forerunner of the philosophy employed in today’s models of the Peugeot.

The excellent value for money of this model allowed the brand to produce more than 3.7 million units worldwide and it became the first Peugeot vehicle to be manufactured at the Vigo plant. The company has sought to convey this same spirit in its current models, something it intends to demonstrate with the new 508, which declares itself the absolute heir to the 504.