Here are some quick hints for estimating the age of an R4, based on outside visual details. It doesn't go into technical details like engines, carburettors, distributors etc., nor does it deal with paint colours or seat/bench tissue. Many different varieties have been applied in the course of time, often simultaneously on different models. Consult an expert if you want to know more about that kind of thing.

Chrome and other deluxe parts were usually applied on deluxe models like R4L, Super, Parisienne etc. but not on basic models like R3 and R4. In later years, chrome bumpers were instead on the basic models, while the GTL had painted ones.

If a part was only slightly modified, like for instance the addition of an ashtray or different air vents to the first model dashboard etc, I ignored it.

This page is based on the French models, but more or less applicable to other western European models excluding Spain (FASA dating specifics can be found here), but varying country-specific details are numerous. Deluxe and action models like Super and Parisienne and also Plein-air Safari, Sixties, Jogging etc. are also different in many ways. Note that an R4 of a certain model year was usually available from august or september of the preceding year. The years listed below in the table are model years.

- In general, basic models like the R3 and R4, and also the Fourgonnettes don't have chrome parts like bumpers, hub caps etc.; instead, they have grey bumpers, grey door handles, grey headlight rings etc. During the GTL-epoch on the other hand, the basic models had chrome bumpers, whereas the GTL had grey painted bumpers etc.
- The R3 and R4 (basic), and later the basic 'L' version, do not have the 3^rd side window
- Tripod hub caps were only applied on the 1962 Super
- The 1963 basic model has tubular bumpers
- External rearview mirror was optional on basic models, later it became standard on all models. The right one was always optional
- Steering wheel 1^st generation: until '68 basic models have 3-spoke, until '67 deluxe 2-spoke
- Licence plate: models with 956 / 1100cc engine have it on the bumper
- Grille 1st generation: basic models don't have chrome clip-on grille
- Rubber bumper blocks appear to have been optional for deluxe models from the very start
- Chrome strips were mounted on the TL until 1982
- The GTL does not have chrome strips
- Within the 3 types of dashboard and clock, various minor differences exist, differences related to the ventilation, ashtray etc.