Description
1903 Bozier Voiturette barn find
-London-Brighton Run eligible
-Totally original unmolested
-Only two units known to survive
-Dedion-Bouton engine
HISTORY
Bozier was an automobile and components manufacturer located in the French town of Puteaux. Already at the end of the 19th century, Bozier was known for its components and in 1901 begun its activities as an automobile manufacturer.
The first models were three-wheeled tricycles that used an original traction system that multiplied the power exerted by the engine at low speed or directly transmitted the power to the rear wheels, using a cone clutch and a hand lever that exerted control over a toothed sector. This Bozier multiplier system was also used optionally by other manufacturers such as Dennis, Darracq, La Nef, etc... In 1902 the first quadricycles or "Voiturettes" appeared.
Car production of the Bozier Company ceased definitively in 1920.
This unit seems to have spent all its life in Portugal, where has surfaced recently in totally original and unmolested conditions, although its early history is totally unknown. As example of its originality, can be compared with the only other Voiturette Bozier still existing: the unit preserved at the "Museo dos Transportes e Comunicacoes" in Porto, Portugal, which interestingly belongs to the same exact model. A photo of the car exposed at the Porto museum is included in the photo gallery.
MECHANICS
The car is fitted with a monocylinder aircooled Dedion Bouton engine in central position. The transmission seems to be the original patented Bozier unit, as the name can still be seen perfectly at the clutch device. The rear end of the transmission wears the name Marot, Gardon et Co, so all the French mechanics seem to be present. The main missing parts are the bycicle-type right wheels, easy to reproduce.
BODYWORK
Mostly made in wood, seems complete and in reasonable conditions for its age of 120 years. Still can be seen the original black paint with thin red lines.
INTERIOR
The floor and seat are missing, but these are parts which can be reproduced easily by restorers.
CONCLUSION
This is a unique opportunity to purchase an unrestored and totally original 120 years old car, at an affordable price. The car is located in Portugal.
