Peugeot uses a 1948 cm3 diesel engine on a 404 convertible transformed into a one-seater prototype to promote its knowledge and prove that this motorization is more than just for commercial vehicles. A lightened and aerodynamically optimized version of the Pininfarina-designed 404 coupé, the monoposto record car was designed to promote Peugeot's diesel engines and claimed several endurance and speed records. In June 1965, on Monthléry Ring, Peugeot went for endurance records with five drivers relaying at the wheel for 72 hours, driving up to 160 km/h, beating 22 international records (Class E). In July, fitted with a new prototype 2163 cm3 engine, drivers were back on track and beat 18 new world records (Class D). It's a total of 40 records achieved by the 404 diesel engine record car.
With its recent 1-2 win with the 908 HDI FAP at 24 Hours Le Mans 2009, and its victory in International Le Mans Cup (ILMC) 2010, Peugeot confirms the rightness of its choice with the performance and reliability of its diesel motorizations.
The Peugeot 404 Diesel record was presented at Rétromobile 2011 by the Museum ‘de l’aventure Peugeot’, Sochaux.
Source: autoconcept-reviews, carsthatnevermadeitetc
Images: Old Concept Cars
