Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The March Timed Online Auction on Thursday the 27th of March. Background:
The Peugeot D3 was initially based on a wartime design and post-liberation, no time was wasted in putting the van into production in June 1946 as the Chenard-Walcker CPV, initially with their one engine, then later with a Peugeot power plant. By 1951, Peugeot had acquired Chenard-Walcker and adopted the CPV as their own, renaming it the D3. Engine size increases followed in 1950 and again in 1952, when it became the 'D3B'. This final development of the type packed a useful 45bhp from its 1, 290cc engine. A range of body types existed, including those of a basic panel van, a minibus, an ambulance and a horse-box.
A rival to the ever-popular Citroën HY 'H van', the D3 is now a rare sight and very few of the 75, 000 produced remain to this day and those that do tend to be in a poor state.
The Car:
Offered without Reserve, this van was built in 1955, making it one of the very last D3Bs built.
In the minibus configuration, it has twin rear doors and long sliding side windows. If it originally came with minibus seats, they are long gone. What is left is quite a large storage area, with a deceptively high roof. Anyone 5' 9" and below should be able to proceed without hitting their head.
Whilst little is known about the car's early history, it was first registered in France and remained there until 1983, when it was brought to the UK and registered here.
Some chrome has rust and tarnishing, as do a few small areas, but this appears to be surface only, with the main structure appearing very solid. It was running and driving five years ago prior to being placed in long term dry storage. It hasn't run since and so will likely require some gentle recommissioning prior to proper use again.
Location: Warwickshire
Seller: Private
Photos: Professsional
