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“So we have at long last in France a sports car which can stand up to comparison with renowned foreign models” concluded Jean Bernardet in l’Automobile, after a test at Montlhéry of the Salmson 2300 S. Presented in 1953 at the fortieth Salon de l’Automobile under the immense glass roof of the Grand Palais, the 2300S would soon prove that, in addition to its pleasing shape, its 105 hp, twin overhead cam, four cylinder engine, coupled with a Cotal pre-selector gearbox, gave sufficient road performance to make it a formidable sports car. The model went on to distinguish itself in the most prestigious competition events such as the Mille Miglia, the French Tour de France Automobile, the Monte-Carlo Rally and others, including the Lyon-Charbonnières, Alpine Cup and the Liège-Rome-Liège. According to the remarkable study by Michel Bonnerot, only 217 Salmson 2300S four-seater fixed-head coupés were made. Even rarer, the vehicle we have on offer is one of only 30 of these cars coachbuilt in the Chapron workshops from 1954 onwards. Her current owner, fascinated by the saga of French luxury car makers, bought this chassis N°85235 in 2006 with the intention of restoring it to its former glory. Having been left standing for 20 years in a well-ventilated and dry basement, the car was incredibly sound but all its mechanics needed to be taken in hand. The vehicle was completely dismantled and components such as the brakes, radiators, dynamo, starter motor, etc. were rebuilt or reconditioned. The wiring loom, which was beyond saving, was entirely replaced in the Diéséliste Electronicien workshops at a cost of 4 510€. While the bodywork was being restored, all chromed parts were micro-bead blasted before being rechromed. The engine has been totally rebuilt and the following components have been refurbished or renewed : fuel tank, carburettors, all gaskets and seals, exhaust system, shock absorbers. The red upholstery and carpets have been remade with the greatest care. The entire interior is now splendid and complements perfectly the slate-grey paintwork which has replaced the original ivory colour. The performance of the handsome and reliable Salmson 2300S is comparable to that of a Jaguar XK120 or the first Lancia B20. Easy to get accustomed to, thanks to its predictable handling and its Cotal gearbox, this Salmson will buy you a guaranteed entry ticket to the most prestigious historic events, such as the Tour Auto and the Mille Miglia, in which indeed the current owner has already put the car through its paces
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