Description
Peugeot 304 SL | 1977
Highlights:
– Certified by the Museu do Caramulo in Portugal
– Original paint with only minor touch-ups
– Engine, gearbox, suspension, and brakes recently rebuilt
– Preserved original interior in good condition
The seller offers for sale this 1977 Peugeot 304 SL Sedan, a well-preserved example of the elegant small saloon that helped define French motoring in the 1970s. This vehicle is presented with a Portuguese registration and certification by the Museu do Caramulo, a respected institution known for its automotive preservation efforts. The car appears to have seen only moderate use and has recently benefited from significant mechanical refurbishment.
Powered by a 1290cc four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a manual transmission, the 304 SL delivers a modest yet engaging driving experience. The engine, gearbox, brakes, and suspension have all been rebuilt according to the seller, contributing to a road-ready condition. Lights and indicators function properly, and the vehicle currently holds a valid inspection certificate.
The exterior remains largely original, with factory paintwork still intact except for a few repainted sections. It is rated as good overall, with only minor blemishes expected from age. The original design and finish are largely intact, lending the car an authentic period-correct presence.
Inside, the car retains its factory upholstery and trim. Elements are present and operational, with only minor signs of wear typical for a nearly 50-year-old vehicle. The seats, dashboard, door panels, and headliner are in original condition and function well, according to the seller. There are no significant issues requiring immediate attention, and the car could be enjoyed as-is or taken to the next level with light cosmetic freshening.
The Peugeot 304 was launched in 1969 as a stylish and practical upgrade over the smaller 204. Designed by Pininfarina, it featured clean lines, an efficient front-wheel-drive layout, and a comfortable cabin well-suited to family and urban use. The SL (Série Luxe) trim offered additional features and visual refinements, such as upgraded upholstery, enhanced trim details, and a more refined driving feel. The sedan version, like this one, was among the most popular configurations in southern European markets.
In the context of European car design of the 1970s, the 304 stood out for its balance between compact size and mature design. It offered a soft ride, dependable engineering, and a tasteful appearance that appealed to both middle-class families and professionals. Mechanically, it shared its platform with the 204 but offered more power and refinement.
Although overshadowed by more performance-oriented or luxurious contemporaries, the 304 holds a quiet charm today. Survivors are increasingly rare, especially those that retain original features and have not suffered from rust or extensive neglect. This example, with its museum certification, original paint, and refreshed mechanicals, presents a valuable opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts looking for an accessible classic with genuine historical significance.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Cascais, Portugal.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Portugal registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.