Peugeot 404 wedding car hire

The Peugeot 404: French with a touch of Italian

Peugeot introduced the 404 in 1960. The design was created in collaboration with the Italian firm Pininfarina, which you can see in the clean lines, the small tail fins at the back and the wide grille. In Europe it became a familiar sight during the 1960s, and in parts of Africa and South America it stayed on the road for decades as a taxi and family car. It is considered one of the sturdiest cars Peugeot has ever made.

As a wedding car, the 404 has a modest, French charm. It is less well known than a Beetle or a Mercedes, so it often prompts questions at a wedding. That is exactly what makes it appealing for couples who want something not everyone chooses, with a style that suits the sixties.

Saloon, estate and convertible

The 404 was mainly built as a saloon, and also as an estate and, less often, as a coupé and convertible. As a wedding car, the saloon is the most practical: you sit together on the back seat, with all your attention on each other.

Comfort and space for the bride

A big advantage of the 404 is that it is a saloon with four doors. The rear doors open wide and the seats are not low, so you can get in without stooping or climbing. A full skirt fits on the back seat, and a train sits nicely in the rear footwell. Even an updo has enough headroom.

A saloon like the 404 is also handy if you make several journeys during the day, for example from home to the town hall, then to a photo location and finally to the party. Getting in and out is easy every time, and the dress stays neat because there is plenty of room in the back.

What to expect from a car from the 1960s

The 404 is known for its smooth suspension, which is pleasant on a brick-paved road or a gravel driveway. There is no air conditioning; on a warm summer day you will drive with the windows open. The pace is relaxed, which suits the car. Allow some extra time so there is no need to rush along the way.

Colour and look

Classic Peugeots are often seen in white, cream or pastel shades. These colours go well with a light wedding dress and a romantic style with wildflowers or roses.

Where the 404 fits in best

This Peugeot feels at home at a wedding with a French or vintage feel, on a farm, at a country estate or in a village with an old church. It is also suitable for a town hall wedding in a historic city centre: it is more compact than a large American car and easier in narrow streets. A simple flower arrangement on the bonnet and a ribbon to the mirrors are all you need.

Looking for more French classics? Have a look at the Citroën DS as a wedding car. If you would like to see everything the brand has to offer, go to the page with Peugeot wedding cars, or browse the wider list of classic wedding cars.