Faults:

Wear on the original carburetor shaft can cause performance problems with fuel.

The fuel tank tends to corrode due to lack of use (the car was old and had low mileage when I bought it) and water ingress, needing to be replaced.

To adapt it to today's daily use, I completely replaced the brakes (they are not very adaptable to current safety standards).

The suspension is also redesigned. All of this makes the car ride better, safer, and more steady than it did 40 years ago.

Although the car was lightly used and well maintained, it did not present any major mechanical problems.

General Comments:

This is a car that was sold for a little over 10 years in the US, throughout the 1970s and early 1980s.

Like its successor, the 505, it's a car I've always liked. Its reputation as a robust and reliable car is well earned. Inside, it's very spacious and comfortable; the seats are like the couches in your house, very soft and adaptable. I've driven few cars as comfortable as this one. Despite being a few years older, in terms of handling and comfort, it clearly surpasses the Chevrolet Caprice (my previous car).

The equipment is more than adequate for a car over 40 years old. It has air conditioning, a sunroof, power windows, and power steering. What more could you ask for in a 1980 car?.

The mechanics are indestructible, the materials are of optimal quality (on par with Mercedes and Volvos from the 1970s). It practically never rusts, and the sheet metal is not only very strong but also quite solid.

The car isn't fast, obviously, but its top speed isn't bad—just over 90 mph for an older diesel is more than optimal.

The engine is a 2.3-liter, also used in the more modern 505, but without a turbo. It's the car's best feature; it runs without asking for anything other than diesel, is simple, and very easy to understand. Fuel consumption isn't high either, especially considering the automatic transmission.

For anyone looking to experience a classic diesel, this car is the one for you. You can cruise easily on the highway at 70-80 mph; it'll take you anywhere.

Faults:

The alternator needed rebuilding.

The glow plug controller needed replacing.

General Comments:

The Peugeot 504 is the most comfortable car, with the possible exception of a Citroen, I've ever driven.

It is very economical getting between 24 - 29 miles per US gallon of biodiesel.

I've been driving 504's for more than 25 years and have no plans of changing.

It is a very beautiful and distinctive car. You never lose it in a parking lot.

Faults:

The alternator failed at 300,000 miles. I assume it had been replaced once prior to my ownership.

The engine required major work at about 225,000 miles including rings and cylinder head work. The head work consisted of the welding of small cracks and a "valve job." Replaced the water pump at the same time.

Replaced the wiper/headlight switch at 325,000 miles.

The power steering failed before I purchased the car. I haven't fixed it. It builds upper body strength.

The driver's seat is badly worn.

General Comments:

Considering the mileage on this vehicle, the upkeep costs have been remarkably low over the years.

The 504 wagon has a prodigious hauling capacity.

This car has some the most comfortable seats in the universe.

The driving position in combination with the seating comfort has made the 504 the most pleasing vehicle I have ever lived with.

I also like a car with "personality," and the 504 has lots of it.

It was suggested to me that my 504 is a little like that eccentric relative that everyone in the family loves.

Faults:

Motor required rebuild at 94,000 (due to dried cylinder seals only)

Rear brake compensator valve rebuilt

Brake and clutch cylinders rebuilt

Surface rust on rocker panels needs frequent inspection/attention.

General Comments:

My father purchased this car new, and I took over its care 10 years later. Not one element of comfort or drive-ability has changed in the last 27 years. With proper care it seems this car will outlast any and all drivers.

Most wonderful seats I've ever had the pleasure to command; 4-6 hours produces no driving fatigue! (much better than my Lincoln!)

Very inexpensive car to keep.

I'm currently searching for a 5-speed, as it is rather slow by today's standards - 70 mph is about max. Does very well on curves and stopping.

Very well-designed and built, I only wish cars of its quality were being built today.

Faults:

Engine worn out at 130,000 miles, should last longer.

Normal wear and tear items.

General Comments:

I love this car because it can do many things, is comfortable and has good winter traction.