Peugeot 402

vs

Peugeot 404

France vs France — 1935 vs 1962

Peugeot 402 (1935)
Peugeot 404 (1962)
Specifications
402 Eclipse404 Injection
Horsepower63 hp96 hp
Torque103 lb-ft
Engine Size2,142 cc1,618 cc
0-60 mph12.5 sec
Top Speed75 mph103 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec
Weight2,822 lbs2,381 lbs
Wheelbase2,910 mm2,550 mm
Length4,470 mm4,520 mm
Units Produced5762,885,267
Original MSRP$2,400
Value (Excellent)$500,000$35,000
Collectibility9/106/10
Rarity9/106/10
The Verdict

The 1962 Peugeot 404 Injection emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1935 Peugeot 402 Eclipse counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Within the Peugeot stable, the 1935 Peugeot 402 Eclipse and 1962 Peugeot 404 Injection represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Peugeot badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1962 Peugeot 404 Injection holds a clear advantage in raw power with 96 hp compared to 63 hp, a 33-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peugeot 402 uses a Inline-4 SV displacing 2,142 cc, while the Peugeot 404 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,618 cc. The 1962 Peugeot 404 Injection claims a higher top speed at 103 mph compared to 75 mph. The Peugeot 404 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 576 units built, the 1935 Peugeot 402 Eclipse is considerably scarcer than the Peugeot 404's 2,885,267 examples. On the collector market, the 1935 Peugeot 402 Eclipse commands a significant premium over the 1962 Peugeot 404 Injection, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1935 Peugeot 402 Eclipse rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.