Description
1904 De Dion Bouton ‘Type V’ 8HP Rear Entrance Tonneau
Registration No. PO6595
Car/ Chassis No. 132
Engine No. 15972
Model. Type V
French Aristocrat Count Albert De Dion and Engineer Georges Bouton formed a partnership in 1883. Their early exploits were in steam and marine boilers but by the mid 1890s they were manufacturing Tricycles and light cars. By 1902, De Dion Bouton estimated that around 30, 000 of their engines were in circulation and that around 140 manufacturers were using their engines under license.
In 1904, the Type V model De Dion Bouton was offered with an 8HP engine and was the last of these 8HP power units to have the expanding clutch gearbox. It also had the efficiency of the Three-Speed gearbox with a side gear lever. The car featured a lightweight chassis and the front wheels had less spokes (10) than the rear wheels (12). The top of the cylinder head had also changed and was now removal for maintenance, the Waterpump was also improved and the water tank filler extended beyond the bonnet on the later models for ease of refilling.
The Type V was available in several configurations. As a 2 seater from £365 or rear entrance tonneau from £440. The list of options was also extensive with Windsheilds, canopies and mahogany cupboards all available.
The car offered here today PO6595 (formerly CE1) is an excellent example of the Type V model. The car has been maintained to the highest standard and has been in current ownership for the last 20 years. During this ownership the car has benefited from engine and gearbox rebuilds, new tyres and everything in between. The car has been used extensively in both the UK and Europe including numerous London to Brighton Runs, tours Du Lac Leman, Teuf Teuf and other events. In early 2024, the car completed a round trip of 230 miles without issue.
The early history is vastly unknown for this example but it has had a sequence of long term custodians (over 20 years each) in its recent history and is well known to both the Veteran Car Club and De Dion Bouton Owners Club.
Benefiting from Windshield, Hood, front and rear tonneau covers and 4 seats, the car is capable of upwards of 35 MPH and has the capacity to carry 4 adults up any hill. This example offers a new custodian the opportunity to purchase a well sorted, 4 seat London to Brighton car that has proven its pedigree many times over the years. The sale is accompanied by history file, invoices, current V5C and other documentation.
£POA
