Panhard CS
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1887 |
| Headquarters | France |
The Panhard CS represents a high-end automobile launched by Panhard & Levassor at the end of 1929 for the 1930 model lineup, serving as a more compact alternative to the brand's 8-cylinder model. The letter "S" denoted surbaissées, highlighting its lowered chassis configuration that decreased both overall height and center of gravity.
At its debut, the vehicle was equipped with a 2,344 cc inline six-cylinder sleeve-valve engine, classified within the 13CV tax category. The factory-produced "CS Type X68" was offered as a four-door sedan accommodating four to five occupants and featured a separate compartment for rear luggage. In addition to the sedan, several coupé and cabriolet variants were available. By 1932, production of the X68 reached 1,028 units.
Running concurrently with the X68 was the "Panhard 6 CS Spécial / Type X69 Spécial," manufactured between 1930 and 1933. This version housed a larger 2,516 cc engine, with total output amounting to 1,310 vehicles.
In 1932, the X68 model was succeeded by the "Type X72," also known as the "Panhard CS RL," which incorporated a "free-wheel" mechanism within its traditional four-speed gearbox. The X72 utilized the 2,516 cc powerplant from the CS Spécial and transitioned into the 14CV tax bracket. It was produced in two wheelbase lengths: short (2800 mm) and long (3340 mm). Overall production for this type reached 2,173 units before being phased out in 1936.
A notable redesign occurred in 1934 with the introduction of the "Panoramique" body style, distinguished by a three-section front windshield featuring curved glass panes on the A-pillars; these versions were labeled "RL-N."
That same year marked an evolution for the CS Spécial into the "Type X73," which upgraded to a larger 2,861 cc engine falling under the 16CV tax classification. Production of this model continued through 1937, totaling 1,535 units.
Although still exhibited at the October 1936 Paris Motor Show and reportedly listed until 1938, the CS Types X72 and X73 were effectively replaced by Panhard's "Dynamic 130 Type X76." The relatively high initial cost of Dynamic models likely prolonged market interest in the preceding CS series.
Sources and notes
- Bernard Vermeylen: Panhard & Levassor. Entre tradition et modernité. ETAI, Boulogne-Billancourt 2005, ISBN 2-7268-9406-2.