Description
This is a very rare and unusual car which I have owned and enjoyed for over 4 years, but sadly due to a change in circumstances must now sell. The car is in good overall condition, with good patina, and is running and driving as it should. I use it on fine days to go to shows, where it always gets a lot of attention.
I have also done a couple of longer drives in it, including the 80 mile trip to Warwickshire for the club (British Salmson owners club) AGM 2024.
I bought the car form Mathewson’s auction in November 2020 (they are best known for the TV show Bangers & Cash - in fact you can see the Salmson behind the rostrum in a few episodes from around that time). I am the 3rd owner since it was imported into the UK
This car is a rare survivor of one of the French Grand Routieres, Delahaye, Delage, Talbot and Salmson. Though it is sometimes mistaken for a Riley at shows in the UK.
Salmson were originally pump manufacturers and became the leading French manufacturer of Aero engines in the First World War. They are specialised in small, high powered engines. This car was previously in a museum in the South of France for 30 years so the vehicle is rust free. The twin cam engine with its cotal gear box has been mechanically recommissioned after its 30 year rest and the brake system 'four wheel hydraulic' has been totally overhauled, stainless steel exhausts fitted and new battery. The underside and chassis are extremely good. Electrics are all working including the stalk controls and Mickey Mouse ear indicators, with lovely Marchal headlamps and Cibe Fog lights
Paintwork is presentable but old with various chips, scrapes and imperfections, but still looking elegant and surprisingly smart. It looks like the car was originally black, but the burgundy and cream paint has been on the car for a long time. Perhaps it was painted ahead of being displayed in the museum. Bright work and wheels are in good condition. Upholstery is in tidy condition, carpets are remade items that are satisfactory.
Since I bought it there has been a lot of work done to the wood frame and interior. Much of which is covered in articles published in the club magazine.
The cotal gearbox is an interesting feature of the car. It operates electromagnetically, by a small lever on the steering column, and there is no need to use the clutch to change up and down the gears.
Another interesting feature is the lack of b and c Pilars. When the font and back doors are both open, the side of the car is entirely open.
Overall, a lovely car which turns heads and gets positive comments wherever it goes. There are many things I like about this car, including the fabulous leaf spring design steering wheel and the overall flowing lines of the bodywork. It always gets people chatting when I am out in it, and its nice to have something a bit different to take to shows.
