To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Paris event, 6 February
2019.
Estimate:
€275.000 - €325.000
- Freshly restored early veteran car
- Excellent four-cylinder example of Syst�me Panhard
Ren� Panhard and �mile Levassor built their first cars, a series of
four identical models, in Paris during 1891. Other models followed
in rapid succession, giving Panhard et Levassor the claim as first
in continuous production, as opposed to Germany's Daimler and Benz,
whose early efforts came in ebbs and flows. With French colleagues
and competitors Peugeot, Serpollet and De Dion, Panhard & Levassor
constituted the world's earliest automobile industry.
An early adherent to the front-engine, rear-drive configuration,
Panhard was recognized by the application of the name Syst�me
Panhard to the layout, although another important ingredient,
shaft-drive, was not universally adopted by the company until 1913.
Panhard & Levassor were pioneers also with wheel steering (1896)
and tubed radiators (1897). Chief engineer Arthur Krebs was also a
pioneer in carburetion and electric ignition.
Panhard et Levassor's annual production, which had been in single
and double digits, rose above 100 in 1896, the year a
four-cylinder, 2,402-cc 8 CV model was introduced. A 12 CV engine
followed in 1897, and in 1899 the first 16 CV, 4,387-cc model.
Eight were built through 1900, and in 1901 a new 4,072-cc 16 CV
Centaure engine replaced the former Ph�nix powerplant. A further
153 were built through 1903.
This handsome rear-entrance tonneau bearing chassis no. 2565
retains its original engine, with a new body, correct-type axels
and chassis, and a four-speed gearbox recently manufactured to
original specifications. It is believed to have spent the majority
of its life in France before being purchased by its current British
owner who commenced a full restoration to its current magnificent
state.
Fitted with an electric starter motor and a modern oil pump for
enhanced reliability and drivability, it is roadworthy on today's
roads . Accompanied by a set of FIVA papers, it remains eligible
for a number of motoring events. The owner reports that it drives
wonderfully, is easily capable of motoring along at 60 km/h and has
adequate gearing to tackle hills with ease.
An imposing Edwardian motor car, this Panhard et Levassor
represents one of the finest vehicles of its era and is fantastic
value for a powerful four-cylinder example.To view this car and
others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/pa19.
