1911 Panhard et Levassor Type X14 25 HP Torpédo

1911 Panhard et Levassor Type X14 25hp Tourer

Coachwork by Vanvooren, Paris

Chassis No.: X14 27065
Engine No.: 27065

Key Features:

• One of the most original and best-preserved pre-1914 Panhards
• Features an advanced Knight double sleeve-valve engine
• Rare seven-seater coachwork by Vanvooren of Paris
• Retains original paintwork, deep-buttoned leather interior, and period equipment
• Offered with Netherlands registration papers and original tools
• Strong contender for concours d’élégance ‘Preservation Class’ awards

Panhard et Levassor – Pioneers of the Modern Automobile

Founded in the late 19th century, Panhard et Levassor was one of the world’s first automobile manufacturers. By 1891, the company offered the first production car for sale, revolutionizing the automotive world with innovative engineering, craftsmanship, and reliability.

By 1911, Panhard had introduced a groundbreaking advancement—the Knight double sleeve-valve engine—which became a signature feature of the brand’s larger models well into the 1930s. That same year, the 4.4-liter 25hp Type X14was launched, available with either shaft or chain final drive, a four-speed gearbox, and luxurious coachwork.

An Outstandingly Original Example

This Panhard et Levassor Type X14, chassis no. X14 27065, was purchased at Brooks’ auction at Ascot Racecourse in July 1995. Prior to that, it had arrived in the UK from South America, remarkably retaining its original conditiondespite its 110+ years of existence.

Recognizing its significance, the current owner wisely chose conservation over restoration, ensuring the preservation of its original grey paintwork and deep-buttoned leather upholstery. Expert specialists were entrusted with the delicate process of maintaining its historical integrity, making it one of the most authentic pre-1914 Panhards in existence today.

Over the past 17 years, the car has been driven hundreds of miles without any mechanical issues, further showcasing the durability and quality of Panhard’s engineering.

Elegant Seven-Seater Coachwork by Vanvooren

The coachwork on this X14 was crafted by the prestigious Parisian firm, Vanvooren, a coachbuilder renowned for producing bespoke bodies for the most luxurious automobiles of the era. The seven-seater touring body offers spacious comfort, complemented by an array of period-correct accessories, including:

✔ Folding brass windscreen
✔ Convertible hood for open or enclosed touring
✔ Two folding occasional seats for additional passengers
✔ Spare detachable wheel rims/tires for long-distance reliability
✔ BRC self-contained acetylene headlamps with matching oil side and rear lamps

To enhance usability, the current owner has also fitted:

• A Birmingham-made rear-view mirror (from a 1911 Rolls-Royce)
• An adjustable brass-framed rear screen with side windows and a cover for rear-seat passengers
• A modern steering damper, subtly integrated using original fixings, vastly improving the handling of this large tourer

Importantly, all additional modifications can be removed easily, ensuring the vehicle remains as period-correct as possible.

Current Condition & Collector’s Appeal

• Exceptionally well-preserved original paintwork and interior
• Retains factory-built bodywork and mechanical components
• Maintained in running condition and proven reliable on the road
• Offered with original factory tools and Netherlands registration papers
• Eligible for major concours events in the ‘Preservation Class’

This 1911 Panhard et Levassor Type X14 represents a unique opportunity to acquire one of the finest surviving pre-war French automobiles, offering a blend of history, engineering brilliance, and untouched authenticity.

A true museum-quality piece, this Panhard would be equally at home in a private collection, concours event, or historic rally, celebrating the golden era of early motoring.