Highlights

• An elegant and highly original example
• Practical post-war four-seater saloon
• Very interesting early history
• Always stored under cover and well maintained
• Improved model in 1954 with more power

The plus

Peugeot took the time to develop the 203 properly. It had to be up to the task - it was the first car produced by the marque after the war, and even its only model at the time, which broke new ground with its advanced monocoque construction.

The result was convincing, as this elegant 1954 version testifies. Fluid lines, spacious interior and a powerful yet economical 1.3-litre engine. This version from the last years of production benefits from the improvements made by Peugeot from 1952 onwards, including an increase in power and deflectors on the front windows to improve interior comfort.

The history of this car is fascinating. It was won in a lottery and then given to the local priest to help him with his pastoral visits. Later, it belonged to the president of the Herbignac classic car collectors' association, from whom the seller acquired it.

It is in very good condition, with a sober black finish and a grey velvet and vinyl interior. It is also pleasantly original - even the starter, recently replaced by the vendor, is original.

This post-war car is stylish, very practical and in excellent condition. Hard to resist.

History and documents

• First registered in 1954
• Exempt from roadworthiness tests
• Originally won as a prize in a local competition
• Given to the local priest to help with his duties
• Even retains a religious medal in the passenger compartment, a reminder of this history
• Belonged to the president of the Herbignac classic car collectors' association
• The seller acquired the car from the president
• 1 set of keys
• Registration document in the name of the current owner
• We are told that the car has always been stored under cover

Condition

• Elegant black paintwork in very good condition, as can be seen in the photos
• Late production model with cosmetic improvements, including fuel flap and deflectors
• The seller reports a paint chip on the edge of one of the front doors.
• He also tells us that the chrome would benefit from polishing
• The bodywork is in good condition, with no signs of corrosion.
• The underside of the vehicle is in similar condition and well maintained
• Original grey steel wheels, tyres appear to be in good condition
• Equipped with a useful luggage rack that increases the already large load capacity
• Velvet and grey vinyl interior in superb condition, with a spacious layout for four people
• Interior fittings, including door panels, seats and carpets, appear to be in good condition
• We are told that the electrical components, dials and controls work correctly
• The roof lining appears to be original, with minor water damage to the rear edges.
• Standard, unmodified interior, but with the useful addition of a classic radio under the dashboard
• Cream Bakelite two-spoke steering wheel and other original styling elements

Powertrain

• More powerful 1,290 cc engine with 45 bhp, as fitted to 1952 models
• Intelligent hemispherical chamber design for power and economy
• 4-speed manual gearbox with paddle shifter
• Newly installed original specification starter motor
• No reported problems with running or driving
• Used regularly by current owner with no faults

BEFORE BUYING