This now very rare classic has been in Casper's possession for 25 years, a beautiful masterpiece that is still in its original condition. Never touched up or welded, but with a wonderful patina, the Panhard PL 17 is a real eye-catcher. With shining eyes we like to discover every detail of this unique specimen.
Private collection
Originally, this Panhard came from the French department Rhône (69). The first owner at the time opted for the most luxurious version, the “Grand Standing” – probably to impress the neighbours, because the car was only driven on Sundays, and only in good, dry weather. As is the case with many car enthusiasts, the car was usually in the garage under a warm blanket.
After the death of the first owner, the PL 17 ended up in a private collection near Lyon in the 80s. Almost twenty years later, the collection was sold, and Casper has cherished and carefully maintained the car ever since.
History of the Panhard PL 17
The Panhard PL 17 was introduced in 1959 as a successor to the Panhard Dyna Z and was known for its aerodynamic design and innovative engineering. With its streamlined bodywork, designed by Louis Bionier, and efficient 2 cc 848-cylinder boxer engine with 42 hp, the PL 17 was an example of French automotive engineering in the post-war years. Panhard was one of the first car manufacturers to focus on lightweight construction, which gave the PL 17 a good power-to-weight ratio and made it economical in fuel consumption. The name “PL 17” stood for “Panhard et Levassor” and referred to the car’s theoretical speed of seventeen kilometres per litre.
When it was introduced, the PL 17 received rave reviews for its ride comfort, space and handling. In 1961, the ANWB gave prospective buyers the following advice:
“As for the Panhard PL 17, we can report that this car is very spacious. Furthermore, one can speak of excellent driving qualities! On the other hand, the car is not very popular with the Dutch public, which could affect the residual value. The engine is specially constructed, which allows a mechanic to easily remedy any defects.”
Casper's (Car) hobby life
Casper, who has a clear preference for classic cars, has treated his PL 17 with care since 1999. In that year, he gave the car a complete tectyl treatment, overhauled the brakes, and replaced filters and fluids. Later, a complete engine overhaul took place at a specialist – an expensive but worthwhile investment. Thanks to this maintenance, the PL 17 drives like new again.
Casper has proudly taken his PL 17 to international Panhard meetings and even holidays in France. These experiences have special meaning for Casper, because even in France the PL 17 Grand Standing is a rarity. In small villages the car is often greeted with respect by older residents, who still remember the car from their youth.
Specifications and Features
- Model: Panhard PL 17 Grand Standing (1959)
- Doors: Suicide doors
- Performance: Grand luxe, aluminum trim strips, wheel covers
- Color: Bleu Iraq (dark blue)
- Engine: 2-cylinder boxer engine, 848 cc, 42 hp
- Mileage: 46.800
- indoor: Light gray leatherette with cream white on the front and back seats
- Radio and instruments: Original and completely intact
Future for the PL 17
The Panhard PL 17 in this original condition is a rarity. The stories and memories surrounding this car keep history alive, and Casper hopes that the new owner will cherish the historical value of this unique car. With the same care that Casper has given for 25 years, the PL 17 can continue to contribute to preserving a past in which Panhard played a major role.
Below it continues with the photos
Beautiful car, I saw two years ago in France a perfectly restored PL 17 Confort S in a silver-gray metallic color, really a picture!
In a PL 17 you can also see a bit of the Citroen DS!,
A wonderful classic car that I loved at first sight.
A notable evolution at Panhard was the transition from a self-supporting aluminium body to an all-steel body around 1956