Highlights
- Only 226 produced, with only around 20-30 surviving to date
- Full restoration completed in 2022, with only 500 km covered since then
- Superb 'Atlantis Blue' exterior and 'Tobacco' upholstery, a combination first offered in 1962 as a 'Tiger' variant for optimised engine performance
The appeal
This Panhard PL17 cabriolet is a perfect example of how French automotive design has never been afraid to challenge industry norms. Unconventional in every detail yet irrefutably elegant, Panhard's post-war designs were aerodynamically driven, aiming to maximise the performance of their 851cc air-cooled engine and keep their cars in the French 5 CV tax class.
With only 226 ever built, this rarely seen two-door convertible is a true collector's item. This example has been meticulously restored and retains its fabulous 'Atlantis Blue' exterior colour combination and 'Tobacco' coloured upholstery. This is a rare opportunity to own a coveted piece of French motoring history, fully restored and ready to delight its new owner.
History and documents
- Manufactured in 1962 and delivered new in Cotonou (French colony of Benin) to a Breton who repatriated it to the continent on his return.
- The exact number of owners is unknown, purchased around ten years ago for a total restoration from the bare hull
- Restoration completed in 2022, with only 500 km covered since then
- Normal valid registration document
- The seller assures us that the numbers match
- No service book available due to age and life of vehicle, but main invoices for recent parts and work are available
Condition
- Total body restoration: stripped shell, rust and wear parts replaced, running gear replaced, bonnet hoops sandblasted and epoxied, new alpaca soft top replacing PVC, soft top cover, new tyres.
- The original seat frames have been dismantled, sandblasted and protected, and the upholstery restored in the original tradition, with the seats covered in high quality leather in the original tobacco shade.
- New door panels, redone in the original style and covered in the same leather.
- Initially metallic grey, the cabriolet has been repainted in the more dynamic "Atlantis Blue" accompanied by "tobacco" coloured upholstery
- Earmuffs have been added to the rear of the reclining backrests
- Carpeted rear boot with spare wheel compartment.
- The seller recommends a final adjustment of the doors and windows
- No signs of corrosion or damage
- We are told that everything in the driver's compartment is in good working order.
- Only the rev counter is occasionally defective.
Mechanics
- 851cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine
- Four-speed manual transmission
- Total restoration of the "Tiger" engine
- Equipped with Zenith 38 NDIX twin-barrel carburettor with technical improvements for perfect reliability
- Replacement of the original celoron (resin) timing pinion with a dural (duralumin) pinion, gearbox dismantled and bearings changed, stainless steel exhaust system
- Graphite clutch bearing replaced by a ball bearing and spring clutch disc replaced by a diaphragm clutch disc
- New wiring with the addition of modern relays and fuses not originally present
- Discreet installation of a USB socket
- We are assured that the vehicle runs very well and drives exactly as it should
- Impeccable engine compartment
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email [email protected]. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.