On Saturday, April 22, 2023, the traditional "Hollands Glorie" spring ride took place. The tour was organized as usual by the APH (Association Peugeot Hollande). This year's annual event was dedicated to a special event: the 75th anniversary of the Peugeot 203, the first post-war passenger car model from the French manufacturer. Soon you will read more about the history of this historic French automobile. Today we look back on the day, thanks to the report of Peugeot fan Arie-Jan Vreeken.
The pre-announcement of the Hollands Glorie spring ride did not miss its effect. A nice number of fifty teams registered for a route with beautiful panoramas. And that course was graced by historic Peugeots. For example, a beautiful starting field was ready during a day that offered ideal conditions for an unforgettable edition of the Hollands Glorie spring ride, especially during the first part of the route.
The start took place at the Cool Classic club in Naarden. The participants were delighted with this location and found it to be a very suitable stopping place with ditto entourage. With a beautiful blend of art, classic rolling heritage and ideal opportunities to take care of the inner man, this fit well with the event. Thus began a beautiful day.
The Cool Classic Club supposedly has an interesting collection of classics, but on April 22 they took a proverbial standstill. Because now it was the classic copies of the always so dignified and modest Peugeot that drew attention in Naarden. The field of participants had several 203s in several versions. We mention three convertibles, a beautiful coupé and various saloons of different model years. And of course the “utilitarian” versions were also represented with a Commerciale tôlée and a Pick-up with tarpaulin. Several other models from the classic Peugeot pallet flanked the copies of the anniversary model, such as a beautiful 403 and some beautiful copies from the 04 series. Of course the photography car was also a Peugeot: the 308 CC of Arie-Jan Vreeken, who took care of the photos.
The route took you past beautiful places in the middle of the Netherlands. For example, the classic Peugeot procession passed leafy and picturesque parts of the Gooi. Naturally, the adjacent lake area was also included in the decor. From there, the fifty teams continued their way towards the Vecht region. And we know from experience that the Utrechtse Heuvelrug can also evoke a wonderful tour feeling. The combination of these areas provided a very beautiful route decor.
In the end, the Hollands Glorie spring ride led to a special end point. That was the old harbor of Huizen with the stately shell ovens and that image always provides a beautiful entourage. For example, the APH organized a beautiful event in the context of the 75th anniversary of the Peugeot 203. And that was arranged down to the last detail, including those Burgundian features that fit the brand with the lion. The organizers had no influence on one aspect: the initial sunny weather gave way to precipitation. It didn't spoil the fun, the fifty teams were treated to a wonderful day. And on a beautiful anniversary for the Peugeot 203, which was celebrated with dignity by the classic Peugeot community.
All photos are made by Arie-Jan Vreeken, who holds the copyright
This Peugeot is an underrated classic.
I have one myself in restoration and am amazed time and time again how well thought out this car is.
(e.g. easy and cheap to renew cylinders and pistons, drain tap for cooling system, etc.
The driving comfort is also excellent, especially for such an old car.
This 203 is certainly not inferior to a Volvo PV, the build quality is at least as good.
Unfortunately, this super solid and comfortable classic is still undervalued and is still being traded way too cheaply.
There were once also several radiator grilles and extra chrome for sale for this model (photo) to pimp the 203 a little more.
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Hooray for the almost indestructible legendary Peugeot 203 that revived the French brand after the war and who remained such a loyal friend to its owners that many cherish this Frenchman, as is the case with so many other types in the range of the Peugeot house. The procession of cubs ranging from 201 (20s) and models from all eras to the present is living proof that this manufacturer not only produces very beautiful characteristic models, but also delivers solid and extremely reliable products, which makes their owners attached to them. and become “Friends for life”… On to 100 years of friendship…. Congratulations Peugeot 203!!!