1924 Peugeot ‘Quadrilette’ Torpedo Tourer
French automaker Peugeot created this diminutive cyclecar to help reverse its financial troubles following World War I. The Quadrilette was the popular name for the Type 161 and later Type 172 models produced between 1921 and 1924.
This tiny vehicle embodied the spirit of the “Roaring Twenties” with its small, low-to-the-ground profile, streamlined body, and bright colors that marked a departure from the more somber automotive styling of earlier years.
The original Type 161 featured an unusual tandem seating arrangement due to its narrow width, while later versions placed the seats side by side. The car’s two small seats and sporty appearance made it ideal for recreational driving.
Power came from a 667cc four-cylinder water-cooled engine producing just 9.5 horsepower, which kept the car under 770 pounds (349 kilograms) to qualify for favorable cyclecar taxation. Later Type 172 variants offered a slightly larger 720cc engine.
Peugeot built approximately 12,305 Quadrilettes over three years, representing about 31% of the company’s total vehicle production during that period.
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