1903 Malicet et Blin 8hp Four-Seater Rear-Entrance Tonneau
Chassis no. 6
Engine no. 13379

The old established Parisian engineering firm of Malicet et Blin were manufacturers of gearboxes, steering boxes and differentials as well as water pumps, drive shafts and rear axles which they sold to the burgeoning list of motor manufacturers in Paris and its environs and indeed further afield. They also manufactured and supplied motor car chassis with or without engines, so essentially their engineering expertise served well an industry where out-sourcing of components was becoming commonplace.

This car, confirmed by the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain Dating Committee in 1997 (certificate no. 2146) as a Malicet et Blin from 1903, is powered by an 8hp single cylinder De Dion Bouton engine, driving through a Malicet et Blin three speed and reverse gearbox, with steering box and rear axle differential from that manufacturer. It was discovered in distressed condition in Belgium in 1966 but with all mechanical components in place. A slow and painstaking restoration by two leading members of the Belgian VCC began in 1966 and was completed in 1989, this restoration embracing building the handsome four seater coachwork in period style. In 1990 the car was officially dated by the VCC of Belgium, (certificate no. 1061), at which time a FIVA International Identity Card was also issued.

This car took part three times as an overseas entrant in the London-Brighton Veteran Car Run in the period 1990-1994 and, in the hands of the immediately preceding British owner, completed 13 successive Brightons from 1995-2007. The current vendor purchased the car at Bonhams' New Bond Street Sale in November 2008 (Lot 305).

The car is strikingly liveried in dark blue and black, with fine yellow coachlining and black deep-buttoned leather upholstery. It is equipped with a good set of four petroleum spirit lamps by Phares Besnard, brass bulb horn and rear view mirror.

This exceedingly rare car, the only one of its kind recorded in the current VCC of GB Members Handbook & Car List, is offered with a comprehensive range of essential spares for the Brighton motorist, including trembler coil, inlet valve assembly, exhaust valve and spring, inner tubes, spark plugs and a tailored tonneau cover. There is also a fascinating history file including a photographic record of the restoration. 'BS 8212' is currently taxed and has a V5C registration document. That this car comes from fastidious ownership is evidenced by its overall first class presentation in all areas and impressive London-Brighton record – it has now successfully completed 19 successive Runs (1995-2013) and has a valid entry for the 2014 event.

As well as eligibility for The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and all events organised for members of The Veteran Car Club, it is also eligible because of its De Dion Bouton engine for participation in events run by the De Dion Bouton Club UK.