Description
1923 SALSMON VAL 3
This delightful Salmson VAL 3, is a wonderful example of this revered engineering company’s output, during the early part of the 20th century.
Famed for their aeronautical manufacturing, by 1919 Salmson turned to motorcar manufacture, originally producing a licenced variant of the British GN, but later designing their own chassis and engine, as shown here.
The VAL 3 featured a brilliant little push rod engine designed by Emile Petit, which had a clever single rod activating both inlet and exhaust valves, this torquey unit, powered both the earlier AL and later VAL models.
Indeed, Salmson and Amilcar were often referred to as ‘The Poor-mans Bugatti’ such was the use of these light cars at races abroad and of course at Brooklands!
This VAL 3 has been substantially rebuilt, its beautiful coachwork, emulating that of the Twin Cam Grand Sport model. It features carefully doped fabric rear bodywork, elegant ‘butterfly-wings’ and deep side panels, the gearbox was rebuilt by the previous owner and the engine has recently been rebuilt, with new rods and white metalling by Formhalls.
The interior trim is sparce, but the beautifully patinated red leather contrasts well with the coachwork, a delightful array of jaeger instruments, bosch switches and four spoke Rene Thomas style steering-wheel catch the eye further.
Wheels have been rebuilt and have Longstone triple stud tyres.
In lovely condition throughout, this super Salmson, would be a great addition to any collection, being eligible for many events with the VSCC or further afield, the Amilcar & Salmson register being particularly active.
Only for sale due to other personal projects.
