Rife rumors emerged across social media in Nigeria that the classic Peugeot 504, long admired for its toughness and charm, was making a comeback via Dangote Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (DPAN). Viral clips surfaced showing a sleek, modern-looking car badged as a Peugeot 504, sending fans into a wave of nostalgia. However, this excitement was doused by Stellantis (Peugeot’s parent company) and Dangote Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (DPAN), who disclosed that the buzz was false.
Stellantis stated that the vehicle was a one-off tribute car, custom-built for the 2025 Flammes French Music Awards to honor the French rap group 113, who famously drove a 504 onstage during a performance. DPAN in Nigeria echoed the sentiment, clarifying that there are no plans to bring the model back into production.
Now, let’s talk about the legendary Peugeot 504 itself!
First launched in 1968, the 504 quickly earned its reputation. It won the 1969 European Car of the Year award and became known across Africa and Latin America as “Africa’s workhorse” — tough, easy to repair, and built to endure rough roads.
The model was originally manufactured in France (1968–1983) and later assembled from kits in Nigeria (until 2006), Kenya (until 2004), Argentina, and other countries. It was available in multiple body styles, including sedan, station wagon (Break/Familiale), coupe, cabriolet, and pickup.
The Peugeot 504 was styled by Aldo Brovarone of Pininfarina, renowned for its clean lines and timeless design.
The Peugeot 504 offered a variety of engines and trims:
Petrol Engines:
1. 1.8 L Inline-4 (82 hp / 97 hp), 0–100 km/h in ~15 s, top speed ~170 km/h.
2. 2.0 L Inline-4 (104 hp / 76 kW) – delivers ~167 Nm torque, top speed ~174 km/h
3. 2.7 L V6 (136–144 hp) in later coupé/cabriolet models.
Diesel Engines:
1. 2.1 L Inline-4 (65 hp, 124 Nm, 0–100 km/h in ~21 s)
2. 2.3 L Inline-4 (70 hp, 132 Nm).
Chassis & Dimensions:
- Rear-wheel drive, 4-speed manual (3-speed automatic optional), long-travel suspension, and excellent ground clearance.
- Sedan dimensions: ~4.49 m length, 1.69 m width, 1.46 m height; station wagon stretched to 4.8 m.
- Weight: approx. 1,200–1,300 kg; cargo capacity ~459 L
The buzz around the reborn 504 stems from an art project, not a sales revival. Stellantis and DPAN make it clear: no relaunch is in the works. But for many Nigerians, the enduring affection for the 504 continues—it’s not just a car, it’s part of our cultural history.
This tribute concept may have sparked memories, but the streets won’t be seeing new 504s anytime soon.
