Description
1964 Panhard PL17 BT Relmax.
850cc flat twin with 60 HP Tiger engine. Top of the range model with leather upholstery.
The car is excellent throughout and had a lot of work done in past year to make it suitable for regular use.
I bought the car and although rust free the paint was flat and it had been touched up in places with a poor colour match. I left it into a professional body shop and had it thoroughly prepped and completely resprayed in original Antares red 2 pack synthetic paint (3 coats). The underneath surprisingly had never been painted (or welded) and was in remarkable condition. The painter recommended the underneath be treated to preserve the car and this was also done. There was no bodywork needed, just sanding and painting.
The car spent most of its life in the south of France and Spain before coming to Ireland about 20 years ago.
Other work done in past year is a complete clutch system (clutch, release bearing and clutch fork with new, original parts (not reconditioned).
The electrical system was overhauled. The dynamo was refurbished. New Paris Rhone regulator fitted, new ignition coil, new distributor cap, new points, plugs and battery.
All greasing points greased etc.
New engine mountings fitted.
The carburettor was cleaned and serviced. Engine oil, gearbox oil and brake fluid replaced.
I also fitted a top quality electric fuel pump. I found if the car wasn't started for a few days, you had to crank it until the carb bowl filled and it took a few goes. Now the car starts instantly hot or cold. The mechanical fuel pump is still in place and can easily be reverted back to this if desired, but for regular use the electric pump is a useful upgrade.
The car has a full stainless steel exhaust fitted.
The car is driving superbly well and is well able to keep up with modern traffic. Typically french it's very stable on the road at speed and testament to how well engineered these cars are, there's no vibration in the steering wheel and if you take your hands off it the car holds a completely straight line.
A very rare car now in this condition and so french, yet practical. The car is a work of art and beautifully put together.
I've recently completed a 300 mile journey from Mayo to Belfast and back and I'd go anywhere in it.
If someone in UK buys it. I live only minutes from Ireland West airport with cheap flights to many UK cities. Drive the car back to the UK via Dublin port.
It's a 60 year old car in excellent condition, but it's not new. The interior is original and in very good condition. I've lots more pics on request and can take a video for anyone genuinely interested. The car featured in a magazine a few years ago. The oldest french car manufacturer of them all. Very french, very quirky and unusual, yet practical and excellent to drive.
