Classic French cars at the Reims-Champagne Automobile Museum
Classic French cars at the Reims-Champagne Automobile Museum.
The Reims-Champagne Automobile Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with an appreciation for cars, motorcycles, and the evolution of transportation – mainly French cars, but also British, American, Italian, and German.
The museum was established in 1985. Philippe Charbonneaux collected cars dating from 1903 to the present day. It has five collections: automobiles, motorcycles and two-wheelers, pedal cars, miniature toys, and enamel plaques. Housed in a large industrial-style space, with over 230 vehicles, the museum has grown to become one of the most significant automotive collections in France.
Almost all vehicles on display have a plague detailing their make, model, and interesting facts. My favourite French cars of distinction at the Museum include the following:
1909 A-Series 2 Cabriolet “Le Zébra” – A charming early automobile, “Le Zébra” symbolized France’s pioneering role in automotive innovation. Known for its compact design and nimble handling, this cabriolet was ideal for urban Parisian streets.
1914 E.K. Renault – A wartime legend, the 1914 E.K. Renault was a robust and reliable vehicle used extensively during World War I. Its practical design and durability made it indispensable for military logistics.
1924 G6 Genestin – An French sports car, the G6 Genestin was celebrated for its lightweight frame and impressive performance. It captured the spirit of 1920s motoring with a perfect balance of speed and style.
1930 Peugeot 183G – The Peugeot Type 183 was a 2-litre six-cylinder car produced between 1928 and 1932. It marked Peugeot’s return to the 2-litre sedan class after a 15-year hiatus. The car was available in various body styles, including saloon, torpedo, and cabriolet, accommodating four to seven passengers. Its spacious interior made it popular among Parisian taxi operators. A total of 12,636 units were produced before it was succeeded by the Peugeot 401 and 601 models.
1936 Panhard et Levassor Dynamic 130 – Renowned for its aerodynamic styling and advanced engineering, the Dynamic 130 was a luxurious sedan that epitomized French elegance. Its innovative design included features such as a centrally mounted steering wheel.
1937 Type 415 and 1947 Type 164LR La Licorne – La Licorne (Unicorn) was a French automobile manufacturer known for producing stylish and dependable vehicles from the early 1900s to the mid-20th century. The Type 415 reflected the transition of automobile design from pre-war luxury to more streamlined and functional forms, that featured a 4-cylinder engine.After World War II, La Licorne resumed production but struggled in the post-war economy. The Type 164LR represented an effort to modernize and remain competitive in a challenging market, featuring an updated 4-cylinder engine, designed for reliability and simplicity in the economically constrained post-war years. By the late 1940s, La Licorne’s production dwindled, and the company eventually ceased operations. These post-war models are rare and collectible today.
1960 Thevenin Caravan Week-End – The Thevenin Caravan, specifically the Week-End model, was a French-manufactured travel trailer designed for leisure and touring. Produced by Thevenin B. in Marigny-Le-Chatel, Aube, France, these caravans were emblematic of the 1960s caravanning boom, offering families an affordable means to vacation. The Week-End model featured compact yet functional interiors, often including sleeping areas, a small kitchenette, and storage, catering to the needs of traveling families. While specific production numbers are scarce, the Thevenin caravans are remembered for their contribution to the popularity of caravan holidays during that era.
1962 Gnome-Rhône French Army Motorcycle – Designed for rugged military use, this motorcycle showcased robust engineering and versatility. It was a dependable companion for French soldiers, capable of navigating challenging terrains with ease.
1970 Fournier-Marcadier Barzoi – The Fournier-Marcadier Barzoi was a French sports car produced between 1967 and 1976. Founded by André Marcadier and Marcel Fournier, the company was known for creating lightweight, kit-based sports cars inspired by models like the Lotus. The Barzoi featured a tubular steel spaceframe chassis with a fibreglass body, initially designed as a mid-engined vehicle and later adapted to a rear-engine layout, commonly using Renault powertrains. Weighing approximately 540 kg, the Barzoi was praised for its agility and performance. After Fournier’s retirement in 1970, the brand continued under the name Marcadier. The Barzoi was succeeded by the Barzoi 2 in 1977, which remained in production until 1983.
Joustra “Flèche d’Argent” Autorail Triple – Joustra is a well-known French toy manufacturer, famous for its tinplate vehicles and mechanical toys. The Flèche d’Argent (Silver Arrow) embodied a streamlined Art Deco design popular in the mid-20th century. Autorail Triple refers to a set of three vehicles, typically designed to mimic futuristic or race car designs of the time. These toys were often wind-up or friction-powered and are highly collectible today, with their craftsmanship and retro appeal making them prized items among vintage toy enthusiasts.
Cirque Pinder Vehicles – Cirque Pinder is one of France’s most iconic circuses, and its vehicles were essential for transporting equipment, animals, a mobile ticket office, and living quarters for performers. The circus used a variety of vehicles, including trucks, trailers, and specialty vehicles. These vehicles were often brightly painted with the Pinder name and circus motifs, designed to attract attention as they traveled between towns. Vintage Cirque Pinder vehicles are popular among collectors and circus enthusiasts, symbolizing a bygone era of traveling entertainment.
