Weekends: A Transformation into an Automotive Enthusiast

Didier Jouniaux, a Paris resident born in 1959, is 56 years old. He lives with his wife and three children in an elegant apartment in the 16th arrondissement, near the Bois de Boulogne.

While Didier commutes to his banking job via the Metro on weekdays, he undergoes a "transformation" every weekend. His other identity is that of a "lover of old French cars." We had a glimpse into his automotive passion.

—Today, you're with the Peugeot 504 Cabriolet, I see.

I found it a few years ago in the classifieds of a magazine, located in Toulouse in the south of France. It's a 1973 model, the last of the early series. The 2-liter, 105-horsepower version. I was drawn to its distinctive combination: a Peugeot with coachwork by Italy's Pininfarina. This is my first convertible. The price, not exorbitant for France, was also a deciding factor.

I went to pick it up with a friend's car. The previous owner was a German working for Airbus Industries, headquartered in Toulouse, and had cherished it for 18 years.

—That's about 680 km from Paris to Toulouse, a journey of at least six hours.

But I drove it all the way back to Paris the same day I picked it up! It immediately proved its capability for daily use, even with its four-speed gearbox.

—What are your favorite details?

First, the quarter windows, which are absent on the base 504 Berlina (sedan). At the time, many Italian cars still featured them.

And, most importantly, the triple taillights. According to Gilles Vidal, the current Director of Peugeot Design, 308and other recent Peugeot taillights draw inspiration from those of the 504 Coupé/Cabriolet.

—Since this is your first convertible, what other cars do you own?

I've had the Peugeot 404, a classic Berlina, for some time. In 2009, my car was chosen to be featured in the French film "Little Nicholas" as the vehicle driven by the protagonist's family.

I also have a 1968 Citroën DS21, a 1939 Traction Avant, and a 2CV in my hometown garage. The 2CV is the deluxe 'Azam' version.

Driving Cars from My Youth

—Why do you enjoy both Citroën and Peugeot?

In the past, the brand images were diametrically opposed.
Citroën was radically avant-garde, while Peugeot was solid and dependable. Like the French Mercedes-Benz (laughs).

—Both are French cars, of course. But what draws you to such old French automobiles?

I have a certain fondness for the cars that were on the streets during my childhood.

—Indeed, I recall occasionally seeing Traction Avants still in service in Paris in the early 1980s.

—By the way, Didier, what is your daily family car?

It's a Citroën Evasion. I bought it 14 years ago when my youngest son was born, so that my wife, children, and my parents living in my hometown could all ride in it.

—A seven-seater wagon. Aside from your hobby, that's a surprisingly practical choice.

Oh, and one more thing: old cars often have a distinct aroma inside, don't they? Yes, even the scent is part of the enjoyment of this hobby.