View allAll Photos Tagged 175cc
Single cylinder, 175cc, 4-stroke of 175 cc. (60×61.5) engine with transversal rotation, overhead valves, the 4-speed in-block gearbox and the shaft transmission.
GP500.Org Part # 85000 MZ motorcycle windshield
gp500.org/MZ-Motorradwerk_Zschopau.html
History of the Marque: MZ
Germany 1956 - today
1907: A bicycle factory is founded in Zschopau, Germany, the later DKW factory (DKW stands for "Dampf Kraft Wagen"= Steam Engine Vehicle, which was one of the first constructions of the factory)
1919: Production of a twostroke engine begins. It is a toy engine. The people started to translate DKW with "Des Knaben Wunsch" (Little Boy's Wish). People were poor, and the toy engine wasn't a great success. But the little engine was robust and strong, and in 3 years more than 30000 were sold as bicycle engines. This engine was called DKW = "Das Kleine Wunder" (The Little Wonder).
1922: The first motorcycles were built.
1925: The first motorcycle assembly line in Germany is installed at DKW in Zschopau.
1931: The removable alloy cylinder head leads to better cooling. In the first twenty years the factory had an output of 650000 two stroke motorcycles.
1932: The AUTO UNION is founded with the brands DKW (Zschopau), Wanderer (Chemnitz), Audi and Horch (Zwickau). The logo of the new brand were four rings like Audi still has it today.
1939: DKW has to build war motorcycles for the Nazis.
1945: The complete factory is disassembled, the machinery is confiscated by the Russians. The AUTO UNION management moves to Ingolstadt in the western part of Germany.
1946: Production of parts and engines starts again
1949: Motorcycle production starts again
1950: The IFA (Industrievereinigung FAhrzeugbau) RT 125 leaves the production line. It is an improved prewar design, robust and reliable. Later an engine with a displacement of 150cc was available besides the 125cc RT. The fan cooled versions of RT engines were used in the IWL Pitty, Wiesel , Berlin and Troll scooters.
1956: The brand "MZ" (Motorradwerk Zschopau) is introduced. In the best years 3200 employees built more than 80000 motorcycles, many of them were exported to more than 100 countries. The new ES 250 is introduced.
1957: First year of the 175cc version of the ES
1958: First GP victory at Hedemora
1962: The RT production ends.
1971: The 175cc production ends.
1976: Last GP at Anderstorp.
1983: July, 6th: a ETZ 250 as the two millionth MZ motorcycle leaves the production line
1989: The wall between the western and the eastern (communistic) part of Germany falls.
1990: The former "people's factory" is now managed by the Treuhandanstalt-office, which is intended to lead the former state-owned factories to private ownership .
1991: MZ sales drop dramatically, because the old communistic market has vanished and the bikes are not attractive enough for the new market.
1992: the MuZ (Motorrad und Zweiradwerk) brand is established. Only 80 employees are left, but they are enthusiastic: the first new models, now with ROTAX four stroke engines, are a hit at the motor shows.
1993: MuZ wins some designer awards for the SKORPION model: Silver Award from the Designers and Art Directors Association (London), International Design Award (New York) and a BBC Design award.
1994: The production moves to a modern factory in Hohndorf, just outside of Zschopau. The SKORPION models are now approved for 49 states in the U.S.A.
1995: The SKORPION gains even the DOT/EPA/CARB approval for California!
Cheshire Steam Fair 14/07/2012.
Motobi is not a well known marque in the UK. It has its routes in the Benelli motocycle company based in Pesaro, Italy, which in 1948 was run by the 6 Benelli brothers. Motorcycle manufacture had been stopped during the war years when Allied bombing of Pésaro damaged the factory. Immediately after the war Benelli needed to restart manufacturing. Five of the brothers wanted to start producing the pre-war models, whereas Giuseppe Benelli saw this as an opportunity to design an all-new machine. After this disagreement Giuseppe left the Benelli company and started his own company in Pesaro, initially trading under the name Moto 'B' Pesaro. A few years later this was shortened to Motobi Pesaro, or just 'Motobi'.
Motobi initially offered a range of 2-stroke engined bikes, characterised by pressed steel frames and egg-shaped engines. This format was continued in 1955 when Motobi introduced their first 4-strokes, the 125cc and 175cc Catria badged bikes.
Guiseppe Benelli passed away in 1957, leaving sons Luigi and Marco to inherit the factory and continue production. However, this also opened the door to merging Motobi back into the Benelli family business in 1962 as Gruppo Benelli-Motobi. Initially, established products continued the Motobi identity, but the progressive addition of badged Benelli models would gradually begin to erode the marque's individuality.
In 1964 Motobi introuced a new range of light-weight machines to the UK market. Included was a single speed automatic moped and a 3-speed moped. The moped motors were given as 40mm bore × 39mm stroke, capacity 48cc at 6:1 compression, for 2.5hp output @ 6,500rpm. The mopeds had a pressed steel frame and optional pressed steel leg shields. In the UK the mopeds were not a success and were withdrawn from the market after a few years due to poor sales.
One of a group of photos purchased on eBay Australia.
"Souvenir de Vacances. Andie. Guy"
Souvenir of a holiday
Possibly BSA B31 from c1950/1952?
Update: See comments. Probably a French Motobécane Z24c 175cc.
GP500.Org Part # 85100 MZ motorcycle windshields
gp500.org/MZ-Motorradwerk_Zschopau.html
History of the Marque: MZ
Germany 1956 - today
1907: A bicycle factory is founded in Zschopau, Germany, the later DKW factory (DKW stands for "Dampf Kraft Wagen"= Steam Engine Vehicle, which was one of the first constructions of the factory)
1919: Production of a twostroke engine begins. It is a toy engine. The people started to translate DKW with "Des Knaben Wunsch" (Little Boy's Wish). People were poor, and the toy engine wasn't a great success. But the little engine was robust and strong, and in 3 years more than 30000 were sold as bicycle engines. This engine was called DKW = "Das Kleine Wunder" (The Little Wonder).
1922: The first motorcycles were built.
1925: The first motorcycle assembly line in Germany is installed at DKW in Zschopau.
1931: The removable alloy cylinder head leads to better cooling. In the first twenty years the factory had an output of 650000 two stroke motorcycles.
1932: The AUTO UNION is founded with the brands DKW (Zschopau), Wanderer (Chemnitz), Audi and Horch (Zwickau). The logo of the new brand were four rings like Audi still has it today.
1939: DKW has to build war motorcycles for the Nazis.
1945: The complete factory is disassembled, the machinery is confiscated by the Russians. The AUTO UNION management moves to Ingolstadt in the western part of Germany.
1946: Production of parts and engines starts again
1949: Motorcycle production starts again
1950: The IFA (Industrievereinigung FAhrzeugbau) RT 125 leaves the production line. It is an improved prewar design, robust and reliable. Later an engine with a displacement of 150cc was available besides the 125cc RT. The fan cooled versions of RT engines were used in the IWL Pitty, Wiesel , Berlin and Troll scooters.
1956: The brand "MZ" (Motorradwerk Zschopau) is introduced. In the best years 3200 employees built more than 80000 motorcycles, many of them were exported to more than 100 countries. The new ES 250 is introduced.
1957: First year of the 175cc version of the ES
1958: First GP victory at Hedemora
1962: The RT production ends.
1971: The 175cc production ends.
1976: Last GP at Anderstorp.
1983: July, 6th: a ETZ 250 as the two millionth MZ motorcycle leaves the production line
1989: The wall between the western and the eastern (communistic) part of Germany falls.
1990: The former "people's factory" is now managed by the Treuhandanstalt-office, which is intended to lead the former state-owned factories to private ownership .
1991: MZ sales drop dramatically, because the old communistic market has vanished and the bikes are not attractive enough for the new market.
1992: the MuZ (Motorrad und Zweiradwerk) brand is established. Only 80 employees are left, but they are enthusiastic: the first new models, now with ROTAX four stroke engines, are a hit at the motor shows.
1993: MuZ wins some designer awards for the SKORPION model: Silver Award from the Designers and Art Directors Association (London), International Design Award (New York) and a BBC Design award.
1994: The production moves to a modern factory in Hohndorf, just outside of Zschopau. The SKORPION models are now approved for 49 states in the U.S.A.
1995: The SKORPION gains even the DOT/EPA/CARB approval for California!
Ballinaclash Strand, Wexford: 1977-78.
Astride the Heinkel Tourist 175cc scooter.
In the background is a yellow Hillman Imp
ASI Motoshow 2026 - Varano De' Melegari - Italy
Photo from and with the courtesy of Christophe Bogula.
1972 Citroën DS 21 Prestige injection électronique - 2,175cc 125 bhp
With its partition window, this version targeted businessmen and officials.
Chassis n° 1041
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Estimated : € 50.000 - 70.000
Sold for € 49.450
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2018
- Ultra-rare French microcar
- One of an estimated 38 survivors
- Professionally restored
- Excellent original condition
- One of the best surviving examples
'Conceived by les Ateliers Électromagnétiques de la Seine and produced by the SNCAN aircraft company, the Inter could be summed up as a French equivalent of the Messerschmitt.' – 'Beaulieu Encyclopedia of the Automobile'.
This charming French microcar looks very much like a 'car of the future' from the 1950s; indeed, it is easy to imagine it emerging from a flying saucer in a science fiction movie of the period. The Inter 'Auto Scooter' was built at SNCAN's factory near Lyon and first shown to the public at the Salon de l'Auto in 1953. Its aviation connections are obvious - it looks just like the cockpit and nose section of a contemporary light aircraft - while the tilting canopy was another feature it shared with the German Messerschmitt, as was the tandem seating arrangement for the two occupants. Motive power was supplied by a 175cc Ydral single-cylinder two-stroke engine, which drove the rear wheel via a three-speeds-plus-reverse gearbox and chain final drive. Unusually, the Inter's two front wheels could be folded up to reduce the body's width of 135cm by around 45cm, making it possible to store the vehicle in one's shed. Only some 300 Inters were manufactured from 1954 to 1956, with a few others assembled from parts up to 1958. It is estimated that around 38 cars remain today in collections and museums worldwide, with only a few among them still in running order.
This particular Inter was discovered in a barn a few years ago, in running order and original. The vehicle was then completely restored by Auto Classic Restauration in Normandy, and photographs and invoices relating to the restoration may be found in the history file. Guaranteed to turn heads at any motoring event, this quite delightful Inter microcar is one of the best of the surviving examples.
History of the Marque: MZ
GP500.Org Part # 85000 MZ-Motorradwerk Zschopau motorcycle windshields
gp500.org/MZ-Motorradwerk_Zschopau.html
Germany 1956 - today
1907: A bicycle factory is founded in Zschopau, Germany, the later DKW factory (DKW stands for "Dampf Kraft Wagen"= Steam Engine Vehicle, which was one of the first constructions of the factory)
1919: Production of a twostroke engine begins. It is a toy engine. The people started to translate DKW with "Des Knaben Wunsch" (Little Boy's Wish). People were poor, and the toy engine wasn't a great success. But the little engine was robust and strong, and in 3 years more than 30000 were sold as bicycle engines. This engine was called DKW = "Das Kleine Wunder" (The Little Wonder).
1922: The first motorcycles were built.
1925: The first motorcycle assembly line in Germany is installed at DKW in Zschopau.
1931: The removable alloy cylinder head leads to better cooling. In the first twenty years the factory had an output of 650000 two stroke motorcycles.
1932: The AUTO UNION is founded with the brands DKW (Zschopau), Wanderer (Chemnitz), Audi and Horch (Zwickau). The logo of the new brand were four rings like Audi still has it today.
1939: DKW has to build war motorcycles for the Nazis.
1945: The complete factory is disassembled, the machinery is confiscated by the Russians. The AUTO UNION management moves to Ingolstadt in the western part of Germany.
1946: Production of parts and engines starts again
1949: Motorcycle production starts again
1950: The IFA (Industrievereinigung FAhrzeugbau) RT 125 leaves the production line. It is an improved prewar design, robust and reliable. Later an engine with a displacement of 150cc was available besides the 125cc RT. The fan cooled versions of RT engines were used in the IWL Pitty, Wiesel , Berlin and Troll scooters.
1956: The brand "MZ" (Motorradwerk Zschopau) is introduced. In the best years 3200 employees built more than 80000 motorcycles, many of them were exported to more than 100 countries. The new ES 250 is introduced.
1957: First year of the 175cc version of the ES
1958: First GP victory at Hedemora
1962: The RT production ends.
1971: The 175cc production ends.
1976: Last GP at Anderstorp.
1983: July, 6th: a ETZ 250 as the two millionth MZ motorcycle leaves the production line
1989: The wall between the western and the eastern (communistic) part of Germany falls.
1990: The former "people's factory" is now managed by the Treuhandanstalt-office, which is intended to lead the former state-owned factories to private ownership .
1991: MZ sales drop dramatically, because the old communistic market has vanished and the bikes are not attractive enough for the new market.
1992: the MuZ (Motorrad und Zweiradwerk) brand is established. Only 80 employees are left, but they are enthusiastic: the first new models, now with ROTAX four stroke engines, are a hit at the motor shows.
1993: MuZ wins some designer awards for the SKORPION model: Silver Award from the Designers and Art Directors Association (London), International Design Award (New York) and a BBC Design award.
1994: The production moves to a modern factory in Hohndorf, just outside of Zschopau. The SKORPION models are now approved for 49 states in the U.S.A.
1995: The SKORPION gains even the DOT/EPA/CARB approval for California!
Barcelona (Spain).
De una mini-kdd organizada por Mayte (a quien por fin he conocido) en su última visita a Barcelona. Nos acompañaron Paco, Albert, Jordi y M. Carmen y Miguel.
A la hora de la cena sólo quedábamos Mayte, Paco, Albert y un servidor. Mientras esperábamos a que nos dieran mesa, ellos se pusieron a probar cosas con luces, y yo me quedé encandilado con esta maravilla.
ENGLISH
Montesa was Formed in 1944 by Pedro Permanyer and Francisco Xavier "Paco" Bultó. Their first Montesa prototype was based upon the French Motobécane models of that time. Permanyer began to produce his own gas engines, which allowed for a new area in motorcycles to be explored and expanded into. Permanyer and Bultó teamed up in Barcelona and created a light-weight motorcycle. This led to the creation of a bike powered by a 95cc two-stroke engine with no rear suspension. Despite some setbacks, they sold 22 of these units in the first year of production. The next year, the partnership focused on production improvements and meeting the growing demand for their bike. As a successor to the previous model, Bultó designed a new 125cc roadster, which was tested in many the trail-type rallies and semi-enduros that were popular in Spain at the time.
When Spain's economy began to improve. Permanyer promoted the all-around champion motorcyclist Pedro Pi from head test rider to chief development engineer. Leopold Mila was made Technical Director and Permanyer's son Javier, was to be Sports Assistant. Work began right away on designing a brand new all-unit-construction 175cc engine that by 1960, would power the latest Impala sports roadster model. This engine would form the basis of the company's future trials and motocross machines. To promote sales of this model, three Impala's were taken to Africa where they covered over 12,000 miles of terrain, most of it being off-road. Back in Spain, Pi was busy winning the Spanish motocross and road race championships and working on a new 250cc version.
More info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montesa_Honda
---------------------------------
CASTELLANO
Montesa es una marca española de motocicletas cuyo origen se remonta a la creación de la empresa del mismo nombre en 1944 por Pedro Permanyer Puigjaner.
El modelo de Montesa de mayor éxito fue la Montesa Impala (1962), motocicleta de turismo de 175 cc que también se fabricó en una versión esport de 250 cc. Su creador fue Leopoldo Milà i Sagnier (1921 - 2006). En pruebas, tres unidades de pre-serie recorrieron a principios de los años sesenta África entera, desde Ciudad del Cabo a Barcelona, ya en Europa, (más de 20.000 km en tres meses) dando muestra de una robustez, fiabilidad y aptitudes deportivas legendarias.
The Piaggio Ape (pronounced "ah-peh" - Italian for bee ) is a three-wheeled light commercial vehicle first produced in 1948 by Piaggio.
At the end of WWII, most Italians, badly affected by the war, lacked modes of transport, and more importantly, the financial means to acquire full-sized four-wheeled vehicles. In 1947 the inventor of the Vespa, aircraft designer Corradino D'Ascanio, came up with the idea of building a light three wheeled commercial vehicle to power Italy's economical reconstruction, an idea which found favour with Enrico Piaggio, the son of the firm's founder, Rinaldo. The very first Ape model and the mark immediately following it were mechanically a Vespa with two wheels added to the rear, with a flat-bed structure on top of the rear axle. In the early sale brochures and adverts the vehicle was referred to as the VespaCar or TriVespa and cost 170.000 liras. The first Apes featured 50cc, 125cc or 150cc and more recently 175cc engines. By the time of the 1964 Ape D a cab was added to protect the driver from the elements. The Ape has been in continuous production since its inception and has been produced in a variety of different body styles in Italy and India.
Controlled with scooter style handlebars, the original Ape was designed to sit one, but can accommodate a passenger (with a tight fit) in its cab. A door on each side is provided, making it quicker to get out of the vehicle when making deliveries to different sides of the road. Performance is suited to the job of light delivery, with good torque for hills but a low top speed, which is irrelevant in the urban settings for it was designed. Outside of towns Apes are customarily driven as close as possible to the curb to allow traffic to pass.
The vehicles comes in various configurations such as vans and pickups for load carrying and autorickshaw (Tuk-tuk) for human transportation. More recently Piaggio have made lifestyle models such as the Ape Cross Country and the Ape Web aimed at the young.
Ape Calessino Electric Lithium Values of environmental awareness and respect, which are key in the strategy of the Piaggio Group and in its research and development activities, have now led to the creation of a new zero environmental impact version of the Ape Calessino.The idea of being in touch with nature and with the surrounding environment inspired an evolution in the concept of mobility embodied by Ape Calessino better than any other vehicle. Introducing the electric Ape Calessino Electric Lithium.Ape Calessino Electric Lithium offers the same features and elegance as the conventional engine version. The electric version gains its own unique livery, with an elegant blue and white two-tone color scheme for the bodywork and canvas elements. The same two-tone scheme is echoed in the interior, with cream colored upholstery trimmed with blue piping.Since its launch, Ape Calessino has been met with a genuine fondness and a reputation as a mobility solution that breaks free of the frenetic rhythms of modern life to rediscover values of friendship and conviviality. Exclusive and elegant, yet practical and sturdy just like every other Ape; the bodywork of the new Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is given a double cataphoresis painting treatment, making it even more resistant to the corrosive action typical of the humid, saline conditions of a seaside environment.Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is the perfect vehicle for anyone who wants to stand out from the crowd with original elegance and in complete harmony with the surrounding environment.The new electric Ape Calessino combines the practicality, elegance and agility that have made the Ape Calessino such a hit with capability of accessing zones usually prohibited to vehicles with conventional internal combustion engines, such as areas of particular natural and environmental importance, historical town centers and restricted traffic areas.This makes Ape Calessino Electric Lithium an indispensable tool, for instance, for resorts, hotels and tourism operators intending to offer their guests a fun and distinctive shuttle service that can reach the centre of a cultural city, fend for itself in the hustle and bustle of a medieval town centre or wind its way along the panoramic routes of a beautiful Mediterranean island with equal ease. With a range of 75 Km, all of these destinations and more are easily within reach of the Ape Calessino Electric Lithium, in total respect for the environment and cocooned in silence: electric drive means that Ape Calessino is not just a zero emissions vehicle, it is also completely silent, so that its occupants can enjoy the beauty of a nature to the full or travel through densely populated centers without causing even the slightest disturbance.The Aenerbox system also offers another advantage: the battery does not discharge while the vehicle is not in use, even if left for prolonged periods. This is a significant benefit, especially considering the typically seasonal nature of the tourism industry, for example, and goes hand in hand with remarkable longevity. The life cycle of these batteries is an incredible 15 years (or more than 800 recharge cycles for a total of approximately 60,000 Km), compared with the 7-10 years of a conventional battery system.Built in a series of just 100 examples, the most exclusive Ape of all time is destined for a design-conscious clientele that appreciates Italian style. But this is not just an extremely functional vehicle; it is also a true collector's piece, as highlighted by the numbered plate making it even more exclusive. Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is on sale, on Italian market, at € 19,900 (VAT not included).
GP500.Org Part # 85000 MZ-Motorradwerk Zschopau motorcycle windshields
gp500.org/MZ-Motorradwerk_Zschopau.html
History of the Marque: MZ
Germany 1956 - today
1907: A bicycle factory is founded in Zschopau, Germany, the later DKW factory (DKW stands for "Dampf Kraft Wagen"= Steam Engine Vehicle, which was one of the first constructions of the factory)
1919: Production of a twostroke engine begins. It is a toy engine. The people started to translate DKW with "Des Knaben Wunsch" (Little Boy's Wish). People were poor, and the toy engine wasn't a great success. But the little engine was robust and strong, and in 3 years more than 30000 were sold as bicycle engines. This engine was called DKW = "Das Kleine Wunder" (The Little Wonder).
1922: The first motorcycles were built.
1925: The first motorcycle assembly line in Germany is installed at DKW in Zschopau.
1931: The removable alloy cylinder head leads to better cooling. In the first twenty years the factory had an output of 650000 two stroke motorcycles.
1932: The AUTO UNION is founded with the brands DKW (Zschopau), Wanderer (Chemnitz), Audi and Horch (Zwickau). The logo of the new brand were four rings like Audi still has it today.
1939: DKW has to build war motorcycles for the Nazis.
1945: The complete factory is disassembled, the machinery is confiscated by the Russians. The AUTO UNION management moves to Ingolstadt in the western part of Germany.
1946: Production of parts and engines starts again
1949: Motorcycle production starts again
1950: The IFA (Industrievereinigung FAhrzeugbau) RT 125 leaves the production line. It is an improved prewar design, robust and reliable. Later an engine with a displacement of 150cc was available besides the 125cc RT. The fan cooled versions of RT engines were used in the IWL Pitty, Wiesel , Berlin and Troll scooters.
1956: The brand "MZ" (Motorradwerk Zschopau) is introduced. In the best years 3200 employees built more than 80000 motorcycles, many of them were exported to more than 100 countries. The new ES 250 is introduced.
1957: First year of the 175cc version of the ES
1958: First GP victory at Hedemora
1962: The RT production ends.
1971: The 175cc production ends.
1976: Last GP at Anderstorp.
1983: July, 6th: a ETZ 250 as the two millionth MZ motorcycle leaves the production line
1989: The wall between the western and the eastern (communistic) part of Germany falls.
1990: The former "people's factory" is now managed by the Treuhandanstalt-office, which is intended to lead the former state-owned factories to private ownership .
1991: MZ sales drop dramatically, because the old communistic market has vanished and the bikes are not attractive enough for the new market.
1992: the MuZ (Motorrad und Zweiradwerk) brand is established. Only 80 employees are left, but they are enthusiastic: the first new models, now with ROTAX four stroke engines, are a hit at the motor shows.
1993: MuZ wins some designer awards for the SKORPION model: Silver Award from the Designers and Art Directors Association (London), International Design Award (New York) and a BBC Design award.
1994: The production moves to a modern factory in Hohndorf, just outside of Zschopau. The SKORPION models are now approved for 49 states in the U.S.A.
1995: The SKORPION gains even the DOT/EPA/CARB approval for California!
The same car as in the previous picture totally restored and presented in a recent show in Barcelona (XXIX Auto Retro 2012)
The Poirier was first manufactured in France in 1928. The company primarily manufactured invalid carriages but they also advertised various 3-wheelers for general sale. In 1935 back-to-back versions and monocars were superseded by the Monoto single and tandem-seater voiturettes. These vehicles were built on tubular frames with steel body work. Prior to World War 2 the Poirier was powered by a 175cc Train or Sachs engines as well as Peugeot and Gnome-et-Rhone engines. Along with shaft transmission, these were replaced after the war with 98cc Sachs and 125cc Ydral engines. The company ceased production in 1958
Collection Adrian Van Lerber
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 20.000 - 30.000
Sold for € 23.000
Just as it had done 21 years previously with the revolutionary 'Traction Avant', Citroën stunned the world again in 1955 with the launch of the futuristically styled 'DS'. Beneath the shark-like newcomer's aerodynamically efficient, low-drag bodyshell there was all-independent, self-levelling, hydro-pneumatic suspension; plus power-operated brakes, clutch and steering. No European car would match the DS's ride quality for several years, the fundamental soundness of Citroën's ahead-of-its-time hydro-pneumatic suspension being demonstrated by its survival in computer-controlled form into the 21st Century. The DS's original 1,911cc, overhead-valve, long-stroke engine was replaced in 1966 by a short-stroke 1,985cc unit, also available in 2,175cc and 2,347cc versions, while other DS developments included swivelling headlights, fuel injection, and a five-speed gearbox. By the time production ceased in April 1975, more than 1.3 million of these wonderfully idiosyncratic cars had been built.
One of the last DS models produced, this top-of-the-range Pallas version has the fuel-injected 2.3-litre engine and the desirable five-speed manual transmission. It has been with the current owner for approximately 10 years and is presented in virtually original condition, the only notified departure from factory specification being a chromed exhaust system. Finished in white with black roof and brown leather interior, the car is offered with FIVA identity card, 2016 MFK (TüV), and Swiss registration papers.
Coachwork by Henri Chapron
One of the last examples built
The Zoute Sale - Bonhams
Estimated : € 275.000 - 325.000
Unsold
Zoute Grand Prix 2023
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2023
Just as it had done 21 years previously with the revolutionary 'Traction Avant', Citroën stunned the world again in 1955 with the launch of the strikingly styled 'DS'. Beneath the shark-like newcomer's aerodynamically efficient, low-drag bodyshell there was all-independent, self-levelling, hydro-pneumatic suspension plus power-operated brakes, clutch, and steering.
The project had been initiated in the 1930s by the company's managing director, Pierre-Jules Boulanger, and would be brought to fruition by designers Andre Lefebvre, previously with Voisin and Renault, and Flaminio Bertoni, who had worked on the styling of the pre-war Traction Avant. Part of Boulanger's brief had been that the proposed 'VGD' (Voiture de Grand Diffusion or Mass Market Car) should be capable of affording a comfortable ride over sub-standard rural roads while remaining stable at sustained high speeds on the Autoroutes. The solution to these seemingly incompatible requirements was the famous hydro-pneumatic suspension, suggested by Citroën engineer Paul Mages. No European car would match the DS's ride quality for several years, the fundamental soundness of Citroën's ahead-of-its-time hydro-pneumatic suspension being demonstrated by its survival until relatively recently on top-of-the-range models.
In September 1965 the DS's original 1,911cc, overhead-valve, long-stroke engine – inherited from the Traction Avant - was replaced by a short-stroke 1,985cc unit, also available in 2,175cc and 2,347cc versions, while other DS developments included swivelling headlights, fuel injection and a five-speed gearbox. Other models offered alongside the original DS were the ID (a simplified, cheaper version), the cavernous Safari estate and the two-door Décapotable (convertible), the latter boasting coachwork by Henri Chapron.
Chapron's first convertibles had been produced independently of Citroën but the factory eventually gave the project its blessing. Citroën's own cabriolet were built on the longer, stronger chassis of the ID Break (Estate) but the model was never produced in England, where Citroën's right-hand drive cars were assembled at its Slough factory up to 1966. Technical developments proceeded in step with those of the saloon; thus in 1966 the convertible gained the DS21 engine and in 1969 the faired-in directional headlamps. DS convertible sales progressively declined as the years passed, and production finally ceased in 1971. In total, 1,365 usine (factory) convertibles were made with either the DS19 or DS21 engine between 1960 and 1971.
Despite the demise of the factory-built soft-top, Henri Chapron continued to build his version in small numbers, on request, first on the DS21 chassis and then the DS23. These Chapron-built convertibles, coming after the end of the factory-built cars, are easily recognised by their sills with a single jacking point, production saloon taillights and the coachbuilder's chromium-plated signature on the lower side of the front wings.
The five-speed example offered here is one of the last convertibles built by Henri Chapron. Its basis is the DS21 with the electronic fuel-injection engine, the final variation of this model, which revived the title 'Queen of the Road' enjoyed by the former 15/6 Traction. This exclusive car is one of only four convertibles constructed on the DS21 platform and equipped with electronic fuel injection. The lower part of the dashboard is trompe l'oeil painted, imitating varnished walnut. The coachbuilder's logo is on the boot and the name is on the front wings. There are two rear fog lights. The vendor advises us that the tyres are new.
The beautiful Citroën convertible offered here was purchased by the current owner in 2003 from a coachbuilder in the Champagne area; it was completely original and ripe for restoration. The restoration began in 2008 and was finished in 2015 when the car was issued with a Contrôle Technique. In the course of the rebuild the mechanicals and hydropneumatic suspension were overhauled using many new-old-stock parts; the interior re-trimmed; and the body repainted (in 2015). The car has covered only some 7,500 kilometres since the restoration's completion eight years ago. The accompanying file contains copies of Chapron's documents dating from 1973; a French Carte Grise; and numerous invoices relating to its restoration.
This extremely rare Chapron convertible - comprehensively restored including coachwork, engine and interior - is worthy of the closest inspection.
The Piaggio Ape (pronounced "ah-peh" - Italian for bee ) is a three-wheeled light commercial vehicle first produced in 1948 by Piaggio.
At the end of WWII, most Italians, badly affected by the war, lacked modes of transport, and more importantly, the financial means to acquire full-sized four-wheeled vehicles. In 1947 the inventor of the Vespa, aircraft designer Corradino D'Ascanio, came up with the idea of building a light three wheeled commercial vehicle to power Italy's economical reconstruction, an idea which found favour with Enrico Piaggio, the son of the firm's founder, Rinaldo. The very first Ape model and the mark immediately following it were mechanically a Vespa with two wheels added to the rear, with a flat-bed structure on top of the rear axle. In the early sale brochures and adverts the vehicle was referred to as the VespaCar or TriVespa and cost 170.000 liras. The first Apes featured 50cc, 125cc or 150cc and more recently 175cc engines. By the time of the 1964 Ape D a cab was added to protect the driver from the elements. The Ape has been in continuous production since its inception and has been produced in a variety of different body styles in Italy and India.
Controlled with scooter style handlebars, the original Ape was designed to sit one, but can accommodate a passenger (with a tight fit) in its cab. A door on each side is provided, making it quicker to get out of the vehicle when making deliveries to different sides of the road. Performance is suited to the job of light delivery, with good torque for hills but a low top speed, which is irrelevant in the urban settings for it was designed. Outside of towns Apes are customarily driven as close as possible to the curb to allow traffic to pass.
The vehicles comes in various configurations such as vans and pickups for load carrying and autorickshaw (Tuk-tuk) for human transportation. More recently Piaggio have made lifestyle models such as the Ape Cross Country and the Ape Web aimed at the young.
Ape Calessino Electric Lithium Values of environmental awareness and respect, which are key in the strategy of the Piaggio Group and in its research and development activities, have now led to the creation of a new zero environmental impact version of the Ape Calessino.The idea of being in touch with nature and with the surrounding environment inspired an evolution in the concept of mobility embodied by Ape Calessino better than any other vehicle. Introducing the electric Ape Calessino Electric Lithium.Ape Calessino Electric Lithium offers the same features and elegance as the conventional engine version. The electric version gains its own unique livery, with an elegant blue and white two-tone color scheme for the bodywork and canvas elements. The same two-tone scheme is echoed in the interior, with cream colored upholstery trimmed with blue piping.Since its launch, Ape Calessino has been met with a genuine fondness and a reputation as a mobility solution that breaks free of the frenetic rhythms of modern life to rediscover values of friendship and conviviality. Exclusive and elegant, yet practical and sturdy just like every other Ape; the bodywork of the new Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is given a double cataphoresis painting treatment, making it even more resistant to the corrosive action typical of the humid, saline conditions of a seaside environment.Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is the perfect vehicle for anyone who wants to stand out from the crowd with original elegance and in complete harmony with the surrounding environment.The new electric Ape Calessino combines the practicality, elegance and agility that have made the Ape Calessino such a hit with capability of accessing zones usually prohibited to vehicles with conventional internal combustion engines, such as areas of particular natural and environmental importance, historical town centers and restricted traffic areas.This makes Ape Calessino Electric Lithium an indispensable tool, for instance, for resorts, hotels and tourism operators intending to offer their guests a fun and distinctive shuttle service that can reach the centre of a cultural city, fend for itself in the hustle and bustle of a medieval town centre or wind its way along the panoramic routes of a beautiful Mediterranean island with equal ease. With a range of 75 Km, all of these destinations and more are easily within reach of the Ape Calessino Electric Lithium, in total respect for the environment and cocooned in silence: electric drive means that Ape Calessino is not just a zero emissions vehicle, it is also completely silent, so that its occupants can enjoy the beauty of a nature to the full or travel through densely populated centers without causing even the slightest disturbance.The Aenerbox system also offers another advantage: the battery does not discharge while the vehicle is not in use, even if left for prolonged periods. This is a significant benefit, especially considering the typically seasonal nature of the tourism industry, for example, and goes hand in hand with remarkable longevity. The life cycle of these batteries is an incredible 15 years (or more than 800 recharge cycles for a total of approximately 60,000 Km), compared with the 7-10 years of a conventional battery system.Built in a series of just 100 examples, the most exclusive Ape of all time is destined for a design-conscious clientele that appreciates Italian style. But this is not just an extremely functional vehicle; it is also a true collector's piece, as highlighted by the numbered plate making it even more exclusive. Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is on sale, on Italian market, at € 19,900 (VAT not included).
The Piaggio Ape (pronounced "ah-peh" - Italian for bee ) is a three-wheeled light commercial vehicle first produced in 1948 by Piaggio.
At the end of WWII, most Italians, badly affected by the war, lacked modes of transport, and more importantly, the financial means to acquire full-sized four-wheeled vehicles. In 1947 the inventor of the Vespa, aircraft designer Corradino D'Ascanio, came up with the idea of building a light three wheeled commercial vehicle to power Italy's economical reconstruction, an idea which found favour with Enrico Piaggio, the son of the firm's founder, Rinaldo. The very first Ape model and the mark immediately following it were mechanically a Vespa with two wheels added to the rear, with a flat-bed structure on top of the rear axle. In the early sale brochures and adverts the vehicle was referred to as the VespaCar or TriVespa and cost 170.000 liras. The first Apes featured 50cc, 125cc or 150cc and more recently 175cc engines. By the time of the 1964 Ape D a cab was added to protect the driver from the elements. The Ape has been in continuous production since its inception and has been produced in a variety of different body styles in Italy and India.
Controlled with scooter style handlebars, the original Ape was designed to sit one, but can accommodate a passenger (with a tight fit) in its cab. A door on each side is provided, making it quicker to get out of the vehicle when making deliveries to different sides of the road. Performance is suited to the job of light delivery, with good torque for hills but a low top speed, which is irrelevant in the urban settings for it was designed. Outside of towns Apes are customarily driven as close as possible to the curb to allow traffic to pass.
The vehicles comes in various configurations such as vans and pickups for load carrying and autorickshaw (Tuk-tuk) for human transportation. More recently Piaggio have made lifestyle models such as the Ape Cross Country and the Ape Web aimed at the young.
Ape Calessino Electric Lithium Values of environmental awareness and respect, which are key in the strategy of the Piaggio Group and in its research and development activities, have now led to the creation of a new zero environmental impact version of the Ape Calessino.The idea of being in touch with nature and with the surrounding environment inspired an evolution in the concept of mobility embodied by Ape Calessino better than any other vehicle. Introducing the electric Ape Calessino Electric Lithium.Ape Calessino Electric Lithium offers the same features and elegance as the conventional engine version. The electric version gains its own unique livery, with an elegant blue and white two-tone color scheme for the bodywork and canvas elements. The same two-tone scheme is echoed in the interior, with cream colored upholstery trimmed with blue piping.Since its launch, Ape Calessino has been met with a genuine fondness and a reputation as a mobility solution that breaks free of the frenetic rhythms of modern life to rediscover values of friendship and conviviality. Exclusive and elegant, yet practical and sturdy just like every other Ape; the bodywork of the new Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is given a double cataphoresis painting treatment, making it even more resistant to the corrosive action typical of the humid, saline conditions of a seaside environment.Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is the perfect vehicle for anyone who wants to stand out from the crowd with original elegance and in complete harmony with the surrounding environment.The new electric Ape Calessino combines the practicality, elegance and agility that have made the Ape Calessino such a hit with capability of accessing zones usually prohibited to vehicles with conventional internal combustion engines, such as areas of particular natural and environmental importance, historical town centers and restricted traffic areas.This makes Ape Calessino Electric Lithium an indispensable tool, for instance, for resorts, hotels and tourism operators intending to offer their guests a fun and distinctive shuttle service that can reach the centre of a cultural city, fend for itself in the hustle and bustle of a medieval town centre or wind its way along the panoramic routes of a beautiful Mediterranean island with equal ease. With a range of 75 Km, all of these destinations and more are easily within reach of the Ape Calessino Electric Lithium, in total respect for the environment and cocooned in silence: electric drive means that Ape Calessino is not just a zero emissions vehicle, it is also completely silent, so that its occupants can enjoy the beauty of a nature to the full or travel through densely populated centers without causing even the slightest disturbance.The Aenerbox system also offers another advantage: the battery does not discharge while the vehicle is not in use, even if left for prolonged periods. This is a significant benefit, especially considering the typically seasonal nature of the tourism industry, for example, and goes hand in hand with remarkable longevity. The life cycle of these batteries is an incredible 15 years (or more than 800 recharge cycles for a total of approximately 60,000 Km), compared with the 7-10 years of a conventional battery system.Built in a series of just 100 examples, the most exclusive Ape of all time is destined for a design-conscious clientele that appreciates Italian style. But this is not just an extremely functional vehicle; it is also a true collector's piece, as highlighted by the numbered plate making it even more exclusive. Ape Calessino Electric Lithium is on sale, on Italian market, at € 19,900 (VAT not included).