This Peugeot 203 Barchetta by Barbier is one of those rare postwar French specials that survived as a testament to a period when creativity and racing spirit went hand in hand. Built on the robust Peugeot 203 platform introduced in 1948, Barbier’s barchetta was conceived as a lightweight open sports car for hill climbs and rallies. Paul Barbier, active in the Lyon region, became known for transforming the dependable family saloon into a sleek two-seater with streamlined coachwork and tuned mechanicals, competing in events throughout the early fifties until his career ended tragically in 1956.

The car offered here is a two-seater barchetta carrying Barbier’s distinctive bodywork, with flowing rear lines and an enveloping windscreen. The current condition shows the charm of an authentic special with period character. The interior is extremely simple, with the Peugeot 203 dashboard adapted to a racing environment, a floor-mounted gear lever and a wood-rimmed steering wheel that still conveys the spirit of the fifties. Outside, the bright blue paintwork enhances the shape of the car and its lightness, while the new Borrani wire wheels immediately elevate its sporting pedigree. These wheels, famous for their use on Italian exotics, provide not only elegance but also mechanical authenticity for period competition cars.

Under the bonnet, the Peugeot four-cylinder engine is fitted with a compressor, a period-style supercharging solution used by many French tuners in the early postwar years. Included with the car are additional components such as a cylinder head, an intake pipe for Weber carburetors, and an aluminum rocker cover, all valuable pieces for further fine-tuning. The only noted issue is the hood, which requires repair, but overall the car presents itself as a complete and solid project for someone wishing to restore or preserve it as an eligible entry for historic rallies and hill climbs. Find it for sale at €80,000 (today $94,000) here in Malrevers, France. Thanks to Fluc for this tip.