Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

Ray White · Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 6319 Location: Derby

This is a car that I know very little about. From the description it sounds pretty good.

On the other hand, I imagine most buyers would be put off by it's scarcity if nothing else. Where would you get the parts?

https://www.carandclassic.com/car/C1587053

Penman · Joined: 23 Nov 2007 Posts: 4759 Location: Swindon, Wilts.

Wiki
" The Grégoire design had integral construction, independent suspension all round, a 2.2 Litre flat-four engine and front wheel drive. Claimed top speed was 95 mph. Buyers did not welcome its smooth shape. Endless teething troubles brought production to a complete standstill in 1952. "
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Bristols should always come in pairs.

Any 2 from:-
Straight 6
V8 V10

Ray White · Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 6319 Location: Derby

Maybe ahead of it's time? Many a good design has been rushed into production with insufficient development. Perhaps that is what happened here.?

The argument that customers didn't take to it's smooth shape seems to be at odds with the evidence when one considers the success of the VW Beetle and other 'smooth' cars of the time.

Crashbox · Joined: 30 Apr 2021 Posts: 139

Jean-Albert Grégoire is the chap behind this vehicle

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hotchkiss_Gr%C3%A9goire

Here's some info on the man himself...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean-Albert_Gr%C3%A9goire

The Panhard Dyna X of 1948-1954 was originally exhibited as the AFG (Aluminium Français Grégoire) Dyna at the 1946 Paris Motor Show.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panhard_Dyna_X#Running_gear
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1989 2CV

1932 Morris Minor S.V. Two-Seater

Ray White · Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 6319 Location: Derby

It seems pretty obvious to me from what I have read that the price was set too high as it was twice as expensive as the equivalent size Traction Avant 15CV

mikeC · Posted: Wed May 24, 2023 8:17 am Post subject:

I don't believe the shape had anything to do with its lack of success, cars like the A40 Somerset and Jowett Javelin sold well with very similar designs. Price was the biggest factor, coupled with the unconventional mechanical features and lack of a big-name sales support would have been the main stumbling blocks. No doubt had it carried the Citroen name it would have been just as successful as the later DS range.
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in the garage: 1938 Talbot Ten Airline
Recently departed: 1953 Lancia Appia, 1931 Austin Seven, 1967 Singer Chamois, 1914 Saxon, 1930 Morris Cowley, 1936 BSA Scout, 1958 Lancia Appia coupe, 1922 Star 11.9 ... the list goes on!