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Panhard PL 17 Bordeaux from 1961: an exceptional miniature by Solido
The 1961 Panhard PL 17 Bordeaux reproduced by Solido under reference 4586 is a faithful testimony to French ingenuity of the 1960s. This miniature accurately captures the understated elegance and technical innovation that characterized this avant-garde saloon, making it a must-have for any enthusiast of French model cars .
A true collector's item, this 1/43 scale reproduction is part of the tradition of excellence of Solido, a brand renowned for the quality of its finishes and respect for original proportions. It naturally finds its place alongside other Panhard models and French automobiles from this golden period.
Technical characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Panhard PL 17
- Brand: Panhard
- Year: 1961
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Burgundy
- Manufacturer: Solido
- Reference: 4586
- Protective case included: Yes
The Panhard PL 17: innovation and French elegance
Launched in 1959, the Panhard PL 17 represented the culmination of the Parisian marque's unique technical philosophy. A direct heir to the Dyna Z, it retained the 850cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, but within a bodywork entirely redesigned by Louis Bionier's team. This unique technical approach, emphasizing lightness and energy efficiency, placed Panhard at the forefront of modern concerns.
The PL 17 stood out for its particularly rigid monocoque body and its remarkable aerodynamic innovations for the time. With a drag coefficient of 0.33, it far surpassed its contemporaries, reaching 140 km/h with only 42 horsepower. This exceptional efficiency attracted a clientele of engineers and intellectuals, sensitive to the rational approach to the automobile dear to Panhard.
The commercial success of the PL 17 confirmed the relevance of this alternative vision of the French automobile. Compared to the conventional sedans of Peugeot, Citroën, and Renault, it offered a different, more technical and sophisticated approach that would have a lasting influence on the European automotive industry.
Panhard: a century of French automotive innovation
By the early 1960s, Panhard et Levassor boasted an exceptional legacy in automotive history. Founded in 1891 by René Panhard and Émile Levassor, the brand had revolutionized the fledgling industry by adopting the Daimler engine and inventing the clutch, gearbox, and driveshaft transmission. This configuration, still in use today, earned Panhard the title of "father of the modern automobile."
In the 1950s and 1960s, the period in which the PL 17 was created, Panhard was undergoing a phase of creative renewal under the technical direction of Jean-Albert Grégoire and Louis Bionier. The Parisian company had made the bold choice of the air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, inspired by German achievements but adapted to French engineering. This unique technical orientation allowed Panhard to clearly distinguish itself from traditional French manufacturers and attract a demanding and informed clientele.
Panhard's expertise in advanced technologies was also evident in its competitive successes, notably at the Monte Carlo Rally and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where the small French cars rivaled much more powerful machines thanks to their remarkable aerodynamic efficiency and exemplary reliability.
The anecdote of PL 17: when David challenges Goliath
The Panhard PL 17 's most memorable story is undoubtedly its legendary exploits in motor racing, where it regularly challenged far more powerful rivals. At the 1962 Monte Carlo Rally, a PL 17 driven by Jean-Pierre Nicolas finished a remarkable 7th overall, ahead of Porsches, Alfa Romeos, and Mercedes cars equipped with engines two to three times more powerful.
This exceptional performance perfectly illustrated the Panhard philosophy: technical intelligence could compensate for the power deficit. The Parisian engineers had optimized every detail: careful aerodynamics, weight distribution, precise handling, and ridiculous fuel consumption. Where its competitors consumed 12 to 15 liters per 100 kilometers, the PL 17 made do with 6 liters, allowing for unprecedented racing strategies.
This revolutionary approach fascinated the European automotive world. German and Italian manufacturers studied Panhard's solutions closely, seeking to understand how this small French car could compete with their sophisticated creations. The PL 17 thus became a symbol of French ingenuity , proving that innovation could triumph over brute force.
These sporting successes contributed significantly to the prestige of the brand and directly influenced sales. PL 17 buyers knew they were acquiring a car that had proven itself in the most extreme conditions, a guarantee of reliability and performance that fully justified their choice of a different car .
Complete your collection of French car model cars
This Panhard PL 17 bordeaux Solido naturally finds its place in any collection dedicated to French automobiles from the 1960s. It blends harmoniously with the other models of this golden decade, notably the Citroën DS and the Renault 4CV , testifying to the diversity and creativity of the French automobile industry of the time.
Collectors with a passion for technical innovation will particularly appreciate combining it with other avant-garde French creations, such as the Citroën 2CV or Simca models from the same period. This miniature also fits perfectly into a thematic collection dedicated to 1960s automobiles .
For lovers of quality model cars , this Panhard PL 17 Solido represents an excellent choice, combining historical fidelity and manufacturing excellence. It will appeal to both experienced collectors and French automobile enthusiasts wishing to own an authentic testimony to this exceptional period when French technical innovation shone throughout the European automobile industry. Its relative rarity also makes it a wise investment for building a collection of benchmark French model cars .
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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