If you’re a fan of classic television detectives, you’ve probably wondered what kind of car did Columbo drive. The classic detective series featured a specific, memorable vehicle that became as central to the character as his trench coat.
That car is almost as famous as the lieutenant himself. It was a perfect reflection of his seemingly disorganized but brilliant mind.
This article gives you the full story. We’ll cover the exact make and model, its role in the show, and even where you might see one today.
What Kind Of Car Did Columbo Drive
Lieutenant Columbo’s car was a 1959 Peugeot 403 Convertible. This is the definitive answer to the question fans have asked for decades.
The car was not a common sight on American roads, which made it even more distinctive. Its selection was a masterstroke in character development.
Peter Falk, the actor who portrayed Columbo, reportedly chose the car himself. He felt it matched the lieutenant’s rumpled, unassuming, and persistent nature perfectly.
The Iconic 1959 Peugeot 403 Convertible
Let’s get into the specifics of this unique automobile. The Peugeot 403 was a French car produced from 1955 to 1966.
The convertible, or “cabriolet,” version was particularly stylish. It featured a soft-top roof and a sleek, post-war European design.
Here are the key specifications of Columbo’s famous vehicle:
- Make and Model: Peugeot 403 Cabriolet
- Production Year: 1959 (for the iconic car used in most episodes)
- Engine: 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder
- Power: Approximately 65 horsepower
- Body Style: Two-door, four-seat convertible
- Color: A faded, dusty “bleu romain” (Roman blue)
The car’s performance was modest, to say the least. It was not a high-speed chase vehicle, which fit Columbo’s methodical style.
Why The Peugeot 403 Was The Perfect Choice
The car wasn’t just transportation; it was a extension of Columbo’s character. The producers needed a vehicle that visually told a story.
A shiny new American car would have felt all wrong. It would have contradicted his everyman persona.
The Peugeot worked because it was:
- Unassuming: It was an old, foreign, and somewhat shabby car. This made Columbo seem less threatening to the wealthy suspects he often investigated.
- Persistent: Despite its age and condition, it always started (eventually) and got him where he needed to go. Much like Columbo himself, it was reliable in its own quirky way.
- Memorable: Its unique appearance made it instantly recognizable. Viewers could spot it a mile away, just like Columbo’s trench coat.
- Contradictory: A convertible in sunny California suited the setting, but the car itself was impractical and worn. This mirrored the contradiction between Columbo’s messy appearance and his sharp intellect.
The Car’s Role In Storytelling
The vehicle often played a direct part in the plot. Columbo would sometimes be seen tinkering under the hood or struggling with the convertible top.
These moments humanized him. They provided a pause in the investigation where he could seemingly gather his thoughts.
In some episodes, a suspect’s comment on the car would give Columbo an opening to ask a crucial question. It was a brilliant narrative tool.
A Detailed History Of The Columbo Car
More than one Peugeot 403 was used throughout the show’s long run. The original 1959 model was used from the series’ beginning in 1968 through much of the 1970s.
As the car aged, it became harder to maintain. For the later revival series in the 1980s and 90s, a different 403 was sourced.
This later car was actually a 1957 model, though it looked nearly identical on screen. The continuity team did a great job keeping the illusion seamless.
There’s a famous story about the car breaking down during filming. Peter Falk ad-libbed the scene, making the car trouble part of the episode. This improvisation felt so authentic it was kept in the final cut.
Where Is The Car Now?
Fans often ask about the current whereabouts of the original vehicle. The fate of the primary 1959 car used in the early seasons is a bit of a mystery.
However, a Peugeot 403 used in the later seasons is on public display. You can visit it at the Peterson Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California.
It remains a popular exhibit. Visitors are always excited to see this piece of television history up close.
How The Car Compared To Other TV Detective Vehicles
Columbo’s Peugeot stands in stark contrast to the cars driven by other famous TV detectives. This further highlights its unique role.
Consider these examples:
- Magnum, P.I.: Thomas Magnum drove a flashy Ferrari 308 GTS. This reflected his cool, adventurous lifestyle in Hawaii.
- Starsky & Hutch: They had the iconic red-and-white Ford Gran Torino. It was a symbol of 1970s action and speed.
- The Dukes of Hazzard: The General Lee, a 1969 Dodge Charger, was central to the show’s stunts and Southern identity.
Columbo’s car was the opposite. It wasn’t cool or powerful. It was humble, which made the character more relatable and his victories more satisfying.
Common Misconceptions About Columbo’s Car
Over the years, a few myths have popped up about the lieutenant’s vehicle. Let’s clear those up right now.
Misconception 1: It was always breaking down. While it was shown as unreliable for comic effect, it always managed to run when it counted.
Misconception 2: It was a cheap car. When new, the Peugeot 403 Convertible was actually a relatively expensive European import. Its worn look on the show was carefully crafted.
Misconception 3: The car was green. On black-and-white TVs, the blue color could appear gray or greenish. In color, it’s definitively a faded blue.
Owning A Peugeot 403 Today: A Collector’s Guide
Inspired by Columbo? You might be tempted to find a Peugeot 403 of your own. It’s a challenging but rewarding pursuit for a classic car enthusiast.
These cars are rare, especially the convertible model, in the United States. Finding one requires patience and resources.
If you’re serious about looking, here are the steps you should follow:
- Join a Community: Find online forums and clubs dedicated to classic Peugeots. The knowledge there is invaluable.
- Set a Budget: Purchase price can vary widely, from $15,000 to over $40,000 for a restored model. Factor in ongoing maintenance, which can be costly due to rare parts.
- Locate Parts Sources: Identify suppliers in Europe who can ship mechanical and body parts. This is crucial for any restoration or repair project.
- Hire a Specialist Mechanic: Most general mechanics won’t be familiar with this car. Find someone with experience in French classics before you buy.
- Consider a Non-Convertible: The sedan (berline) version of the 403 is more common and often less expensive, though it lacks the iconic look.
Restoring one to Columbo’s exact spec—complete with the correct faded paint and period details—is a labor of love for the truest fans.
The Cultural Impact Of An Unlikely Icon
The Peugeot 403’s fame is almost entirely due to its role on *Columbo*. It transcended its function as a prop to become a cultural symbol.
It represents a certain kind of underdog intelligence. The car, like its driver, was underestimated at first glance.
You see references to it in other shows, movies, and even comedy sketches. It’s shorthand for a certain rumpled, persistent cleverness.
The vehicle has been featured in countless magazine articles and TV specials about iconic movie cars. It consistently ranks high on lists of the most memorable television automobiles, proving that flashy isn’t always the most memorable.
Merchandise And Memorabilia
The car’s popularity has spawned a range of collectables. Die-cast model companies have produced detailed scale replicas of the 403.
You can also find posters, t-shirts, and artwork featuring the car. For many fans, these items are a way to own a small piece of the show’s legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have about Lieutenant Columbo’s automobile.
Did Columbo Drive A Different Car In The Pilot Movie?
Yes, in the very first pilot, *Prescription: Murder* (1968), Columbo drove a different vehicle. It was a 1957 Peugeot 403 sedan (a hardtop), not the convertible.
The switch to the convertible was made for the second pilot and the subsequent series. The producers felt the open-top car better suited the California setting and added to the character’s quirky charm.
What Was Wrong With Columbo’s Car?
The car was often depicted as having minor mechanical issues. These were used for character moments rather than serious plot points.
Common “problems” shown or mentioned included a stubborn convertible top, a reluctant starter, and general aging components. These quirks were endearing and made the car feel like a real, old vehicle.
Why Did Columbo Drive Such An Old Car?
The in-universe reason was never explicitly stated. It was simply part of his character—he wasn’t interested in material possessions or status symbols.
The practical reason from the show’s creators was to visually reinforce his persona. The old, foreign car immediately communicated that he was not a conventional, by-the-book police detective. It set him apart from everyone else.
Can You Buy A Car Like Columbo’s?
You can, but it requires effort. A Peugeot 403 Convertible is a rare classic car.
Your best bet is to search European classic car markets or specialized brokers. Be prepared for a project, as any car of that age will need attention and parts can be difficult to source in North America.
How Many Peugeot 403S Were Used On The Show?
At least two primary cars were used. The main 1959 convertible for the original series and a 1957 model for the later revival episodes.
It’s likely that other 403s were used for specific stunts or as backups during filming. But the one fans remember is the dusty blue 1959 cabriolet.
So, the next time someone asks you what kind of car Columbo drove, you can give them the full story. It was a 1959 Peugeot 403 Convertible, a four-wheeled extension of the lieutenant’s brilliant, unassuming, and persistent personality.
This car proves that an icon doesn’t need to be fast or flashy. It just needs to be perfect for the character, and this one certainly was. Its legacy continues to roll on, as recognizable today as it was over fifty years ago.