Peugeot 406

vs

Peugeot 404

France vs France — 1997 vs 1960

Peugeot 406 (1997)
Peugeot 404 (1960)
Specifications
406 Coupe V6404 Coupe Pininfarina
Horsepower210 hp96 hp
Torque210 lb-ft94 lb-ft
Engine Size2,946 cc1,618 cc
0-60 mph7.0 sec14.0 sec
Top Speed149 mph106 mph
¼ Mile15.3 sec19.0 sec
Weight3,153 lbs2,381 lbs
Wheelbase2,700 mm2,580 mm
Length4,620 mm4,430 mm
Units Produced107,6106,837
Value (Excellent)$20,000$70,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity5/107/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1997 Peugeot 406 Coupe V6 offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1960 Peugeot 404 Coupe Pininfarina counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Peugeot stable, the 1997 Peugeot 406 Coupe V6 and 1960 Peugeot 404 Coupe Pininfarina represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Peugeot badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1997 Peugeot 406 Coupe V6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 96 hp, a 114-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peugeot 406 uses a V6 DOHC 24V displacing 2,946 cc, while the Peugeot 404 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,618 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1997 Peugeot 406 Coupe V6 edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 14.0 seconds. The Peugeot 404 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 772 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 6,837 units built, the 1960 Peugeot 404 Coupe Pininfarina is considerably scarcer than the Peugeot 406's 107,610 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Peugeot 404 Coupe Pininfarina commands a significant premium over the 1997 Peugeot 406 Coupe V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.