Description

1971 Peugeot 304 Convertible

Charming little French curiosity in nice usable order; driven to the sale; be different this summer

The 304 made its debut at the Paris motorshow in 1969 and was to remain in production until 1980 by which time 1.2 million examples of this chic Pininfarina-styled mid size Peugeot had found customers.

Using the centre section from the 204, the stylists added a larger front end and more commodious boot, the new car’s appearance mirroring the recently introduced 504 which had met with such acclaim.

Independent suspension all round ensured that the astonishing ride quality associated with all Peugeots produced post war was maintained, while front disc brakes added a touch of technology to an otherwise conventional layout. The 1,288cc single overhead cam engine gave the 304 respectable performance thanks to its light weight – all adding up to a very stylish and comfortable small car with immense Gallic charm. A wide range of body styles were available including a lovely coupe and cabriolet.

This lovely little car has been sold through us in the past, in 2012 and again in 2014, a catalogue is included in the history file. When purchased through Brightwells in 2014, we noted that this 1972 example had just emerged from a considerable length of time in dry storage and was subsequently recommissioned, its then owner using it regularly, covering some 4,400 miles during his two year tenure. The odometer showed then, a total of 92,600 miles which is believed to be correct, its previous owner having known the car for over 30 years.

Since then, our enthusiast owner has used and enjoyed sparingly adding only c.1,500 miles during his ownership, recently treating the 304 to a £1,226 spend on a new head gasket set, new core in the radiator, new ignition leads, strip and repair of a front calliper, new brake hose and engine service.

In addition, there are 19 old MOTs on file, the V5C, owner's manual and model information along with other bills for a replacement ignition parts and new core plugs in 2019, new clutch cylinder in 2018, welding repairs to both inner and outer sills in 2017, four new tyres in 2016 along with others for a battery, rear exhaust section clutch and fuel pump dating back to the late ‘90s. MOT exempt, this quirky little rag top can be driven away from the sale.

A previous owner fitted leather seats from a Fiat Barchetta for greater comfort, however the original seats are included in the sale if desired but would require restoration.

With fewer than 20 examples still licensed for the road, this rare and pretty cabriolet is ready to be enjoyed straight away.

For more information contact - will.daniels@brightwells.com