In June 1965, Peugeot challenged diesel stereotypes by setting 40 international speed and endurance records with a specially modified Peugeot 404 Diesel prototype. This performance milestone proved that diesel engines could deliver both fuel efficiency and high reliability under extreme conditions.
The 1960s Diesel Reputation
In the 1960s, diesel engines were mostly seen in commercial trucks and buses. They were efficient but slow, noisy, and heavy. Passenger car manufacturers avoided diesel due to poor public perception and engineering constraints.
Peugeot 404 Prototype Engineering
Peugeot transformed a 404 Cabriolet into a single-seat prototype designed to break records.
- Aerodynamics: Streamlined canopy over the driver’s seat, removed passenger seat to reduce drag.
- Weight Reduction: Removed non-essentials; final weight 1,135 kg (2,502 lbs).
- Communication: Two-way radio enabled pit communication.
