Cars from 1920 to 1950 - The golden age of the car

1939
Code 5004
Body style: saloon

After the popular 201 series with its aerodynamic forms, the next Peugeot model, logically named the 202, was a more sober affair. It inherited the tapered lines and close-set headlights behind the front grille, in the style that became known as the “Fuseau Sochaux”. It was a robust, economical vehicle. Despite being less easy to handle than the Citroën Traction Avant, the 202 stood out for its endurance.  It achieved 7848 km (4877 miles) at an average of 60 kph (37 mph), with a consumption of only 7 litres per 100 km (33.6 mpg). It was also reliable and easy to maintain, with independent front wheels, connecting with a crosswise leaf spring and an efficient braking system on all four wheels. The car became popular because of its sober styling, broad visibility, attractive aesthetics, endurance and robust build.

Despite the interruption of World War II, it had a respectable career, with more than 139,000 units sold between 1938 and 1949.
The 202 on display in the Cité de l’Automobile was a gift from Peugeot in 1983 to mark the twentieth anniversary of the Mulhouse plant.