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Peugeot 104: generations, engines and what to know before buying
The Peugeot 1004 is a small front-wheel-drive hatchback introduced in 1972 and produced until 1988. In this article, we'll look at its generations, engines, and what you need to know before buying this classic French car.
Peugeot 104 in brief
The Peugeot 104 was a small car with a transversely mounted engine and front-wheel drive. It debuted as a five-door hatchback, followed by a shorter three-door version and a sportier coupé.
The model also spawned the Citroën LN, and the 104 platform's technology was used in other Peugeot-Citroën group models. Today, the 104 is rare and highly prized by classic French car enthusiasts.
Which version to choose
The main variant is the five-door 104 with a practical interior and straightforward technology. It's ideal for those seeking a classic small car that's ready to go.
The three-door 104 Z (from 1976) is shorter, and the 104 ZS is a sportier coupé with a more powerful engine. These versions are much rarer and more sought after by collectors.
Engines and gearboxes
Peugeot 104 engines are four-cylinder units, ranging from about 1.0 to 1.4 litres. Power is modest, from a few tens of horsepower to around 70 HP in the sportier versions.
The gearbox is manual, with four (later five) speeds. A notable design feature is that the gearbox is mounted below the engine, so both components share a common oil system, requiring caution when changing the oil.
What to check when buying a used Peugeot 104
The main issue is rust. Check the sills, wheel arches, front and rear bumpers, floor, and door sills. Sometimes, rust is hidden under sealant or fresh paint.
Check the condition of the engine and gearbox — look for oil leaks, smooth shifting, and wear. Inspect the interior, electrical system, and suspension. Due to the limited number of parts available, finding replacements can take time, so it's worth reaching out to classic car clubs.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
104 GL
From 1972Five-door version with better equipment.
- Five-door body
- Simple, easy-to-understand technology
- Often — better interior trim
104 GR
Five-doorMid-range trim with better equipment.
- Five-door body
- Often — a more powerful engine
- More comfortable interior
104 SR
Five-doorSportier version.
- More powerful engine
- Often — additional extras
- A sportier look
104 ZL
From 1976A shorter three-door version.
- A shorter wheelbase
- Three-door body
- Lighter, more agile driving
104 ZS
From 1976Sporty three-door version with a more powerful engine.
- More powerful engine
- Sporty trim
- Rarer and more sought-after
Comparing Peugeot 104 versions
| 104 GL | 104 SR | 104 ZL | 104 ZS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For the practical classic enthusiast | For sportier driving | For city and short-distance driving | For enthusiasts |
| Body | 5-door | 5-door | 3-door | 3-door |
| Engine | Around 1.0–1.1 litres | Around 1.1–1.3 litres | Around 1.0–1.1 litres | More powerful than others |
| Ease of maintenance | Average | Difficult | Average | Difficult |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Budget | Budget | Mid-range |
For most buyers, the best choice is a well-maintained 5-door 104. If sportiness and uniqueness are more important, it's worth seeking out the ZS version.
Pros
- Simple, sturdy construction
- Compact, spacious and practical interior for its class
- Economical and easy to drive
- Rare classic French hatchback
Cons
- Sensitive to rust
- Parts can be hard to find
- Small safety and comfort by today's standards
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Peugeot 104 special?
It's a small Peugeot car with a transversely mounted engine and front-wheel drive, introduced in 1972. The Citroën LN was also based on it.
Is the Peugeot 104 suitable for daily use?
Well-maintained examples can be good for short trips, but they lag behind modern cars in comfort and safety. They are often bought as a hobby.
What should you be most wary of when buying a Peugeot 104?
Rust and hard-to-find parts. It's crucial to check the body condition and the maintenance of the gearbox and engine's shared oil system.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
