'From the Maine Classic Car Museum Collection'
1961 Panhard PL 17 Sedan

The Scottsdale Auction|25 January 2024, 10:00 MST|Scottsdale, The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

1961 Panhard PL 17 Sedan
Chassis no. 2078607
Engine no. 116838

848cc Air-Cooled 2-Cylinder Boxer Engine
Single Downdraft Carburetor
50bhp, Estimated
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Transverse Leaf Springs, Rear Trailing Arms and Torsion Bars
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*A rare and delightfully French family car
*Advanced and sprightly 2-cylinder powerplant
*Renowned for its comfort and surprising performance
*Lovingly preserved condition

THE PANHARD PL 17

Europe's post-war motoring landscape changed drastically as economies rebuilt and demand for affordable, efficient cars exploded. By the 1950s, the "people's car" was a critical market in every major motoring nation, due mainly to the overwhelming success of the Volkswagen Beetle. As the 1960s dawned, the growing middle class wanted affordable cars that were more than just basic transportation. Naturally, the French took their own unique approach. Panhard, traditionally a more prestigious name in French motoring, joined the fray with the Dyna Z and its successor, the PL 17. Similar in size to the VW Beetle, the PL 17 offered room for four (or six diminutive French) passengers, and clever engineering beneath a sleek, aerodynamic body. Despite displacing just 849cc for taxation purposes, it was more powerful than the 4-cylinder Beetle and could achieve a higher top speed. Early models had aluminum bodywork, but the cost of manufacturing bankrupted Panhard, allowing Citroen to take over. Even the later steel cars weighed just 1,775lbs (805kg).

The air-cooled remarkably well-engineered boxer twin features hemispherical combustion chambers, a roller-bearing crank, and torsion valve springs. With its slick and lightweight body, the PL 17 could top 80mph in standard form. In 1961, Panhard PL 17s swept all three podium positions at the Monte Carlo Rally – a mighty feat for an 850cc French family saloon!

THE CAR OFFERED

This 1961 PL 17 sedan is a lovely example of this rare and quirky French family car. According to the consignor, it was sold new in Belgium and spent much of its life gently motoring around the continent. It came to the USA several years ago with a collector from Midland, Michigan, and has since been well maintained in largely original condition. Original details include the wonderful turbine wheel covers and aluminum headlight eyebrows and aluminum bumpers. Handsomely presented in maroon with tan upholstery, it is a charming example of this most unusual French sedan that's certain to draw smiles from all who encounter it.

Additional information

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