The 23rd edition of the ACL Classic Tour was a resounding success with 152 classic cars at the start, including four pre-war models. Focus on these historic models.
The ACL Classic Tour is a wonderful showcase for enthusiasts of beautiful vintage cars. It is an opportunity to admire models that have written the history of motoring. During this 23rd edition, this historic tour welcomed four models that are at least 88 years old. Before continuing, you can try to identify them among all the photos taken during the tour.
Pre-war cars: elegance, innovation and prestige
The interwar period was a pivotal time in the history of the automobile. Between 1918 and 1939, the automotive industry underwent a spectacular transformation, moving from artisanal production to a fully structured industry. This era saw the birth of iconic models that combined aesthetic refinement, technological advances and unprecedented performance.
In the 1930s, the car became both a means of transport for the emerging middle classes and a symbol of prestige for the elite. Manufacturers competed to outdo each other in ingenuity to attract an increasingly demanding clientele: more powerful engines, improved suspension, bodywork designed by master coachbuilders and mechanical innovations that foreshadowed the modern car.
This was also the golden age of independent coachbuilders, who transformed bare chassis into veritable works of art on wheels. Each car became unique, reflecting the taste of its owner. At the same time, the first sports cars appeared, designed for competition but approved for road use, such as the legendary BMW 328.
In this vibrant context, four pre-war models featured in the ACL Classic Tour stood out for their character, history and contribution to the evolution of the automobile: the elegant Alvis Speed 20 SB, the popular Fiat 508 Balilla, the luxurious Panhard & Levassor X71 Panoramique and the sporty BMW 328. Each embodies a facet of this fascinating era, when the car was much more than a means of transport: it was a way of life.
It should be noted that a 1932 Peugeot 201 was also scheduled to take part in the historic drive, but had to withdraw due to a stubborn alternator.
Alvis Speed 20 SB (1934) – British elegance in motion
(With number plate 2 on the Classic Tour)
The Alvis Speed 20 SB, produced from 1934 onwards, is one of the most iconic models from British manufacturer Alvis. It embodies the successful marriage of sporting performance and aristocratic refinement at a time when the car was becoming a status symbol.
Technical specifications
- Engine: 6-cylinder in-line, 2,511 cm³
- Power: approx. 87 hp
- Top speed: 145 km/h
- Transmission: 4-speed synchronised manual gearbox
- Suspension: independent front, lowered ‘double drop’ chassis
An engineering gem
The Speed 20 SB was one of the first cars to offer a fully synchronised gearbox, providing a smoother ride.
Its lowered chassis improved handling, while its independent front suspension ensured superior driving comfort.
Each model was custom-built, often by Vanden Plas, with luxurious finishes: precious woods, hand-stitched leather and a full range of instruments. It was prized by gentleman drivers and enthusiasts of classic car rallies.
Fiat 508 Balilla (1935) – The Italian people’s car
(With number plate 3 on the Classic Tour)
The Fiat 508 Balilla, launched in 1932 and improved in 1935, was designed to motorise Italy between the two world wars. It owes its nickname to a young hero of Italian history, a symbol of courage and patriotism.
Technical specifications
- Engine: 4 cylinders, 995 cm³
- Power: 20 horsepower
- Maximum speed: 80 km/h
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox
- Weight: approx. 685 kg
A car for everyone
The Balilla was easy to maintain, economical to run and robust enough for rural roads. It was produced in saloon, torpedo, spider and even utility versions, making it a versatile vehicle.
Exported and produced under licence in several countries, it contributed to the spread of Italian know-how. In France, it was assembled by Simca, and in Germany by NSU-Fiat. It also took part in competitions, notably in its ‘Coppa d’Oro’ version.
Panhard & Levassor X71 Panoramique (1936) – French luxury
( With number plate 6 on the Classic Tour )
Panhard & Levassor, a pioneer of French motoring, offered the X71, a high-end model that was both technical and aesthetic. The convertible version with bodywork by Janssen is a masterpiece of refinement.
Technical specifications
- Engine: 6 cylinders, 4,080 cm³
- Power: approx. 23 horsepower
- Transmission: manual
- Special feature: It is equipped with a valveless engine based on the Knight patent. Invented by American engineer Charles Yale Knight in the early 20th century, this system was used by several prestigious manufacturers, including Panhard & Levassor, for its quietness and smoothness.
A social builder
Panhard was one of the first manufacturers to employ wounded soldiers and physically disabled people in its workshops. These workers were trained in high-precision tasks such as decorative painting, which required dexterity rather than physical strength. This initiative formed part of a social and inclusive approach that was rare at the time, contributing to the company’s humanistic reputation. Its workers were renowned for their expertise in applying ‘faux bois’ paint. This involved imitating the appearance of precious woods, such as walnut or mahogany, on metal surfaces — particularly dashboards, steering wheels, and interior bodywork. This was done by hand using fine brushes, sponges, and sometimes even feathers, to reproduce the wood’s grain. This finish was highly prized in luxury cars because it provided a refined, handcrafted appearance without the cost or weight of real wood.
BMW 328 (1937) – The German sports icon
(With number plate 6 on the Classic Tour)
The BMW 328, unveiled in 1936 and produced until 1940, is one of the most legendary sports cars of the pre-war era. It marked a turning point in BMW’s history, establishing the brand on the international stage.
Technical specifications
- Engine: 6-cylinder in-line, 1,971 cc
- Power: 80 hp
- Top speed: 150 km/h
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Weight: approx. 830 kg
A born champion
Thanks to its lightweight chassis and innovative hemispherical engine, the 328 dominated competitions such as the Mille Miglia, Le Mans and Nürburgring. It was fast, reliable and agile, with exceptional road holding.
Its flowing style, integrated headlights and ribbed bonnet make it an icon of automotive design. With only 464 units produced, it is now one of the most sought-after classic cars in the world.
