1924 Amilcar CGS Voiturette

Registration no. BF 8498 Chassis no. 261

Footnotes

One of France's foremost exponents of sporting voiturettes, Amilcar was founded by Andre Morel and engineer Edmond Moyet to build cyclecars with sufficient performance for Morel to realise his dream of competition success. Emile Akar, a Paris businessman, and Joseph Lamy, an executive at cyclecar maker Le Zebre, backed the partners' prototype, which was enthusiastically received. Production of the CC, Amilcar's first model, commenced in 1921.

Designed by Moyet, the CC featured Amilcar's own four-cylinder 904cc sidevalve engine, a three-speed gearbox, and quarter-elliptic springing, and would develop into the Types CS and 4C. The CC was praised for its excellent, responsive handling and adequate power, attracting a large and loyal following and setting the pattern for future models. It also provided Morel with his desired competition success when he became the 1100cc Class Champion of France in 1922.

The successor Amilcar CGS was by far the marque's most successful model, effectively establishing its reputation worldwide. Production began in 1924 and continued through 1929 with continuous improvement to a design of proven performance and reliability. Mostly fitted with two-seat bodywork (in aluminium at extra cost), the CGS encouraged owners to enter local competitions in which it proved highly successful.

This Amilcar CGS is believed to have been resident in France for much of its life before it was acquired by the previous owner in 2012 and treated to a complete 'ground upwards' restoration in Switzerland. A complete photographic record of the restoration comes with the car, including 'before' and 'after' images. In 2017, the Amilcar was brought to the UK where it was thoroughly checked and new cycle wings professionally fitted. The vendor estimates that some £20,000 has been spent on the car since its arrival in the UK, including fitting a new battery, servicing, oil changes, a new canvas tonneau, a three Marchal headlamp system, and upgraded wiring. There are bills on file for two engine rebuilds, the most recent in 2016.

Finished in Bugatti blue with leather interior, this Amilcar retains its original steel boat tail and woodwork; it also has its original axle and the differential's internals have been significantly updated to improve driveability. All instruments work, including the rare Nuvax fuel gauge. We are advised by the private vendor that the car is a delight to drive, and that it brakes well for one of its age. The last owner campaigned the Amilcar on winter and summer rallies and at Montléry.

Offered with a V5C Registration Certificate, French registration papers, and a large file of bills and other documents, this beautiful Amilcar CGS represents a rare opportunity to acquire one the great French lightweight sports cars of the Vintage era.