1924 Peugeot 172 BS Grand Sport

This example is a very rare variant with only a 100 being produced in 1924 and it is believed to be one in only five Peugeot 172BS remaining to this day. More impressively, it is thought to be the only one that is still driven and used as the automaker intended, with others being stored in museums or private collections. 

The 172BS or Grand Sport is powered by an enlarged 720cc side valved engine, with a top speed of around 70kph. Over the years, the vehicle has been subject to a few modern modifications which include an electronic cooling fan, electronic ignition, modernised carburettor and a propshaft driven alternator. 

The exterior is finished in French Racing Blue with contrasting yellow wheels. Internally, the car is finished in a rich black leather with wooden features placed throughout and looks exquisite, especially when married with the copious amounts of brass located around the vehicle. 

The car comes with minor history and records, user manual and maintenance guide and of course the V5C. Whilst in the current owner’s care, the 172BS has been stored in a dry location for many years and has been cared for greatly throughout their time with the vehicle. 

As to be expected from a vehicle built in the early 1900s, the craftsmanship is excellent. As far as we could tell, the panels around the Peugeot look to be in good shape. We saw no signs of any imperfections and it is clear that this 172BS has been cared for greatly. Granted, this only extends to the bonnet, but it’s worth noting as the aforementioned, open and close as they should do with no cause of concern. The leather straps that hold the bonnet in place appear to be new and look fantastic on the hood of the vehicle. 

The French Racing Blue paintwork looks sublime and bodywork generally is in really good condition with no obvious blemishes that we saw. The paintwork is free from any deep scratches or imperfections that we saw. More importantly, we saw no signs of corrosion on the Peugeot, even in areas which are generally susceptible to corroding. 

Glass and light lenses around the headlights appear to be in fine condition with no fading or imperfections that we noticed. 

Overall, the exterior is presented very well and is in really fine shape and has quite clearly been looked after by its past and present keepers. 

The interior of this Peugeot is as expected, simplistic and uncomplicated with the exception of the pedals, which might take some getting used too if you’re not familiar with these types of vehicles.  There are a handful of dials to note on the dashboard which give indications for the vehicle’s amps and of course, the vehicle’s speed. These present well, with little signs of patina to note. 

The leather upholstery which is found throughout is in a remarkable state, with very few signs of wear and still remains comfortable. The front and rear bench, as well as the door cards, look good and one would be hard pushed to tell that the leather and chrome work is from a vehicle that was built in 1924. The boot or rear seating is inline with the rest of the interior and is presented excellently with no marks or rips on the leather. 

From looking over the engine bay, everything appeared to be in good order; there were no signs of any leaks that we could see coming from any of the components. The Peugeot burst into life the first time and once the choke was disabled, idled well and without fuss. 

Over the years, there has been some work completed to ensure it runs and operates as it should do. We are informed that there have been some modifications made to bring the car into the 21st century these include: electronic ignition, a propshaft driven alternator and an electric fan for improved cooling. 

Beneath, the Peugeot appears to be free from any rust which is a testament as to how well treated this vehicle has been looked after over the years. 

Unfortunately, due to the age of the vehicle there is little history that comes with the vehicle. All we can tell you is that it has lived the vast majority of its life in Europe, specifically France and Belgium and partook in various motoring events and rallies. It was then auctioned some time later and purchased by the current vendor who has owned the vehicle for around five years. The current owner spent some time ensuring that the vehicle was registered for UK roads and with that has a V5C accompanying the vehicle. The documentation that is supplied with the Peugeot includes various manuals and some French paperwork. 

The Peugeot 172BS Grand Sport stands as a testament to Peugeot’s ingenuity and craftsmanship in the 1920s. With its compact dimensions, spirited performance and enduring appeal, it remains an icon within automotive history, cherished by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Given the rare number of these vehicles, there has never been a more perfect time to add such an iconic vehicle to your collection. 

We are happy to offer this vehicle for auction with an estimate in the range of £18,000 - £22,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located with the vendor in Swardeston, Norfolk. Viewings are strictly by appointment.  To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.