Salmson Model car - Collection of Scale Models in Stock

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Illustration Voitures Rétros Vintage France
The secret test that almost killed a Salmson engineer

Receive by email the little-known story of this French brand that revolutionized the automobile industry with its bold innovations in the 1920s.

Did You Know? Anecdotes and Curiosities about our Miniatures

What is the origin of the name Salmson and in what field did this brand first stand out?

Salmson takes its name from its founder, Émile Salmson. Before moving into the automotive industry in 1913, the company specialized in the construction of aircraft engines and had established a solid reputation in aeronautics during the First World War.

Why were Salmson cars particularly popular with drivers in the 1920s and 1930s?

Salmson cars were renowned for their highly reliable and efficient air-cooled V-twin engine. This configuration, inherited from the brand's aeronautical expertise, offered an excellent power-to-weight ratio and a distinctive sound that appealed to sports driving enthusiasts.

What technical feature distinguished the first Salmsons from other French cars of the time?

The first Salmsons used an air-cooled engine, a rare technical solution in France at the time. This approach, inspired by aviation, allowed for a lighter construction and avoided freezing problems in winter.

In which motor racing competitions has Salmson particularly distinguished itself?

Salmson excelled in hill climbs and rallies in the 1920s and 1930s, notably at the Bol d'Or and in various regularity events. The brand was also present at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it won several class victories thanks to the reliability of its mechanics.

Why did Salmson car production stop relatively early compared to other French manufacturers?

Salmson ceased car production in 1957, a victim of the rationalization of the post-war French market. The brand, which remained loyal to its niche sports cars, was no longer able to compete with mainstream manufacturers who offered more accessible vehicles better suited to the needs of the general public.