1922 Rolland-Pilain Type R Torpedo - Lot 226

1922 Rolland-Pilain Type R Torpedo French registration Chassis no. 5206 Engine no. 5097 - Exciting make - Original bodywork - Innovative Rolland-Pilain is one of the most famous provincial brands of the pre-war era, not only for its racing successes, but also for its technical innovations, such as the first hydraulic brakes designed by engineer Chavrier. In 1922, the Touraine-based brand introduced the Type R, a modern 12hp. Equipped with a 4-cylinder 2.2L engine, it benefited from the new hydraulic brake system patented the previous year. A first for a touring car. An example was entered in the 1923 Le Mans 24-hour race, finishing in 21st place. Offered in a variety of body styles, the most desirable version was the elegant torpedo with tulip-shaped bodywork. This is the bodywork fitted to our example. We were able to trace its history back to 1985. That year, the car joined a collection of five examples dedicated to the brand. It will remain there until 2020, when its owner acquires it at auction. This well-preserved example testifies to the quality of Rolland-Pilain construction. In the 90s, the engine was refurbished at the Ateliers Modernes in Bègles, and the brakes, paintwork and running boards were overhauled at the same time (invoices missing). Since then, it has continued to run on a regular basis, its performance enabling it to be used for long journeys. True to its original form, this sporty torpedo is a true collector's item that deserves the attention of connoisseurs. "The car of aces, the ace of cars" proclaimed the vintage advertisement! ERRATUM: A minor restart is required. 1922 Rolland-Pilain Type R Torpedo French registration Chassis no. 5206 Engine no. 5097 - Exciting make - Original bodywork - Innovative Rolland-Pilain was one of the most famous provincial marques of the pre-war period, not only for its success in competition, but also for its technical innovations, such as the first hydraulic brakes devised by engineer Chavrier. In 1922, the Touraine-based marque launched the Type R, a modern 12hp. It was powered by a 4-cylinder 2.2-litre engine and featured the new hydraulic brake system patented the previous year. A first for a touring car. One of these cars was entered in the 1923 Le Mans 24 Hours and finished 21st. Offered in a variety of body styles, the most desirable version was the elegant torpedo with tulip-shaped bodywork. This is the bodywork fitted to our example. We have been able to trace its history back to 1985. That year, the car joined a collection of five examples dedicated to the marque. It will remain there until 2020, when its owner acquires it at auction. This well-preserved example is a testament to the quality of Rolland-Pilain construction. In the 1990s, the engine was overhauled at the Ateliers Modernes in Bègles, and the brakes, paintwork and running boards were refurbished at the same time (invoices missing). Since then, it has continued to run on a regular basis, its performance allowing it to be used for long journeys. True to its original form, this sporty torpedo is a true collector's item that deserves the attention of connoisseurs. The car of aces, the ace of cars' proclaimed the period advertisement!