1947 Peugeot 202 BH Cabriolet
Peugeot introduced the 202 in 1938, featuring distinctive Art Deco styling that included headlights mounted behind the grille (a hallmark design element that became a brand signature).
Production continued until 1949, with a hiatus during World War II. While sedans and coupes were produced in significant numbers, the BH Cabriolet remained comparatively rare. The open-top version carried a substantial price premium over closed models, limiting its appeal during a period of economic austerity.
The 202 was powered by a 1,133cc inline four-cylinder engine producing around 30 horsepower, prioritizing reliability and efficiency over outright performance (consistent with Peugeot’s focus on practical motoring).
Power was delivered through a three-speed manual transmission, and the car featured rear-wheel drive with independent front suspension and hydraulic brakes. Its simple mechanical layout and continued availability of parts make maintenance relatively straightforward compared to many prewar designs.
This 1947 example represents a postwar production model that benefited from refinements introduced after manufacturing resumed in 1946. The cabriolet body style reflects Peugeot’s prewar design language carried into the postwar era, with elegant flowing lines and chrome accents that embodied the optimism of reconstruction-era France.
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