Panhard et Levassor created vehicles that were dependable and innovative, while they worked with coachbuilders to create bodies that were visually reminiscent of carriages with features like an open driver’s seat and paneled body.

Louis-René Panhard and Émile Levassor introduced a sliding-gear manual transmission in 1894, and this technology evolved into the traditional drivetrain layout that became a standard feature in most automobiles produced in the second half of the 20th century. This layout featured a front engine with the crankshaft aligned longitudinally with the chassis and a gearbox behind that transmitted its power to the rear wheels via a chain drive. The chain drive was modified to a shaft drive by Renault, but the overall layout was Panhard’s.

The X17 was introduced in 1911 and production continued until 1915. This model featured the Knight sleeve-valve engine licensed by Panhard just one year earlier. This double-sleeve configuration used connecting rods to actuate sleeves covering and uncovering the inlet and exhaust ports on the valves. Panhard used this silent and reliable form of valve gear as the basis for all their models up until 1939.

This X17 was purchased by the Mullin Collection in 2006 from noted Dutch classic car specialist Jack Braam Ruben. It is handsomely bodied by Binder as a Sedanca de Ville and carries a striking livery of vertical stripes in alternating cream and dark red. The driver’s instruments include a speedometer that records up to 80 kph, a trip and total distance odometer, and a switch to send acetylene to the headlamps.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled by its engine number.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.