Hotchkiss 686 Côte d’Azur – 1939 - Lot 22

Hotchkiss 686 Côte d’Azur – 1939 French historic registration title Sold without contrôle technique SANS RÉSERVE Already active before the First World War, Hotchkiss restarted its automotive business in 1918 and diversified its production of chassis, engines and bodywork to complete the package. Its wide range, particularly its more economical models, which were still manufactured to a high standard, enabled it to weather the crisis of 1929. The Hotchkiss brand also ventured into motor racing. Victories in races were tangible proof of its expertise for customers. It gave its owners a prestigious image, particularly when it won three Monte Carlo rallies in a row and achieved other successes in international competitions. Technical developments resulting from competition led to the creation of 6-cylinder engines. In 1936, Hotchkiss introduced the 620 in its Paris Nice or ‘PN’ version, a model that had just won the Critérium Paris-Nice. It was equipped with an engine featuring two inverted carburettors, or a double body, a large-capacity oil sump, special manifolds and, in some cases, a more crossed camshaft and firm valve springs. The 686 PN, which benefited from more careful preparation and balancing, was also catalogued and delivered 115 hp at 4000 rpm. This improved and more reliable version of the 686 ‘single carburettor’ will be capable of powering heavy, unmodified passenger cars. It will be available with a long chassis and can be fitted with limousine bodywork. On this basis, Hotchkiss developed a sportier version, the Grand Sport or ‘GS’, and several ‘luxury’ models were created, such as the 686 Biarritz convertible, the Chantilly saloon, the Vichy, and the Modane and Monte Carlo coupés, Monte Carlo, and of course the Cote D’Azur coach, like the one illustrated on these pages, with champagne-coloured bodywork and a beautiful red leather interior. This car is equipped with a post-war 3.5-litre engine with a twin carburettor, cable brakes, and a 4-speed gearbox. Formerly owned by Maurice Worms, who raced Hotchkiss cars from 1937 to 1953 with his teammate E. Mouche, both of whom were often ranked in the Monte Carlo Rally, the car was purchased from the driver’s widow by a collector from Lorraine, before passing through two other owners. Largely in its original condition, this Hotchkiss sports car will need to be restored and serviced before it can be driven again.