Quintessentially French, the Panhard PL 17 is an eccentric automobile, as Jay Leno explains.
Panhard et Levassor was one of the oldest car manufacturers in the world, selling their first product in 1890. As opposed to their more grandeur automobiles of the pre-war era (like the Dynamic or the X72), the PL 17 was lighter, more affordable, and ahead of its time.
Based on the Dyna Z model, which was manufactured from aluminum. the PL 17 came with its predecessor’s slightly-improved two-cylinder 849 cc engine yjat developed 50 hp in standard trim and 60 hp in the upscale “Tiger” variant. An impressive output, considering the engine size. and thanks to its 830 kg (1,830 lb) weight and aerodynamically streamlined body, the PL 17 Tigar was capable of reaching speeds up to 145 km/h (90 mph). In 1961, a Panhard PL 17 even won the Monte Carlo Rally, two years prior to Mini’s winning streak.
Sadly, the PL 17 was one of the company’s last models produced before the company was completely absorbed by Citroen. Still, under Renault Trucks Defense’s tutelage, the Panhard names lives on and manufacturers light tactical and military vehicle.
You can discover more about the Panhard PL 17’s styling oddities by listening to Jay Leno in the video below.