Peugeot 401
A rare interwar bridge between Peugeot's traditional past and its streamlined future.
- Power
- 44 bhp
- Top speed
- 62 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$25k
About the Peugeot 401
The Peugeot 401 was a short-lived mid-size model that filled the gap between the compact 301 and the flagship 601. Produced for less than a year, it was notable for featuring independent front suspension, a significant technical advancement for the era that greatly improved roadholding. While most were conservative saloons, the chassis also underpinned the revolutionary 'Eclipse'—the world's first series-production car with an electrically retractable hardtop. Its 1.7-litre engine was a reliable, low-revving unit designed for durability rather than speed, reflecting the transitional nature of French motoring in the mid-1930s.
Peugeot 401 specs
The Peugeot 401 produces 44 bhp (33 kW). It has a top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h).
| Make | Peugeot |
|---|---|
| Model | 401 |
| Trim | 1.7 |
| Years | 1934–1935 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | France |
| Production | About 13,545 built |
| Engine | 1.7-litre side-valve inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,720 cc (1.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 44 bhp (33 kW) at 3,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 62 mph (100 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,120 kg (2,469 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 39 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Peugeot 401 worth?
A typical Peugeot 401 is estimated to be worth $12,000 – $25,000 (about £8,900 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Peugeot 401 rarity in CarSpot
The Peugeot 401 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 44 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Peugeot 401 fun facts
- The 401 was only in production for approximately 11 months before being replaced by the radically streamlined 402.
- The 401 Eclipse version used a retractable metal roof designed by Georges Paulin, a dentist who later became a hero of the French Resistance.
- Despite its short life, the 401 was offered in no fewer than 11 different body styles, including a long-wheelbase 'familiale' and a coachbuilt roadster.