1937 Peugeot 402 DarlMat Pourtout Roadster
The Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster is a rare and exceptional car that was produced by the French automaker Peugeot in collaboration with the coachbuilder Pourtout. It was introduced in 1937 and was a result of a partnership between Peugeot and Emile Darl’Mat, a French racing driver and automobile dealer. This partnership aimed to create a high-performance sports car that would compete with other luxury brands of the time, such as Bugatti and Delahaye.
The Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster was designed by Georges Paulin, a dentist-turned-car designer who was known for his innovative and aerodynamic designs. The car featured a sleek and streamlined body that was made of aluminum and was handcrafted by the coachbuilder Pourtout. It had a long hood, curved fenders, and a low-slung body that made it look fast and powerful. The car’s design was so unique and modern that it won the Grand Prix d’Honneur at the Concours d’Elegance in Deauville in 1937.
Under the hood, the Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that was capable of producing 55 horsepower. This engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission that allowed the car to reach a top speed of 105 miles per hour. The car’s suspension was also advanced for its time, featuring independent front suspension and a live rear axle.
The interior of the Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster was equally impressive, featuring luxurious leather seats and a wood-trimmed dashboard. The car also had a folding canvas top that could be lowered for open-air driving.
Only a limited number of Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadsters were produced, with estimates ranging from 100 to 200 units. Today, the car is considered a rare and valuable collector’s item, with some examples fetching millions of dollars at auction.
The Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster was not only a remarkable car for its time, but it was also a significant achievement for Peugeot and the French automotive industry as a whole. Its unique design and advanced technology helped establish Peugeot as a serious player in the luxury car market, and its success paved the way for future Peugeot models.
In conclusion, the Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster is a remarkable car that stands out as a shining example of French automotive excellence. Its sleek and modern design, advanced technology, and luxurious interior make it a true masterpiece of automotive engineering. Whether you are a car enthusiast, a collector, or simply a fan of automotive history, the Peugeot 402 Darl’Mat Pourtout Roadster is a car that you should experience at least once in your life.
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