Engine No. 3133-M
La Voiture de l'Elite!, “The Car of the Elite!” proclaimed the advertisements for prewar Georges Irat models, and for good reason. Exceptionally luxurious, they were at times powered by American engines and occasionally fitted with coachwork by Jacques Saoutchik. When the models were not gliding over the cobblestone streets of Paris, delivering an elegant clientele to the Palais Garnier or conveying them to dine at Maxim's, these French automobiles competed alongside Bugatti in Grand Prix and endurance races.
When the Wall Street Crash reached France sometime later, it led to the disappearance of many automobile manufacturers. Georges Irat adapted and persevered. In partnership with Ets Godefroy & Lévêque, the firm developed a more affordable yet distinctly modern automobile. Offered in roadster and cabriolet form and powered notably by a 954-cc Ruby 5 CV engine, it was capable of reaching 100 km/h with ease. Strikingly low-slung, this sports car featured front-wheel drive and fully independent suspension on all four wheels, an advanced design that nonetheless delivered a remarkably comfortable ride.
Unveiled at the 1935 Paris Motor Show beneath the magnificent vault of the Grand Palais, it captivated a sensation-seeking youth. The Georges Irat became the popular car of the elite and was produced until 1939, at the outbreak of the Second World War, in a total of approximately 725 examples across all versions and engine types combined.
The Georges Irat 5 CV presented here, identified by its engine number 3133-M, is one of only 80 examples produced in 1935, from the first year of production. Its current owner had it fully restored between 2018 and 2023 with no expense spared-detailed invoices are available for review-by Spirit of Excellence in Lewisburg, Tennessee. It was finished in a striking two-tone Atlas Blue over Pepper White livery with an ostrich leather interior. A custom luggage crafted in the same ostrich leather as the car's interior by Taris Charysyn & Co. accompanies the Georges Irat, allowing its owners to take a weekend trip in complete elegance.
Upon completion of the restoration, this Georges Irat was presented at the 2023 Winter Nationals in Miami, Florida, where it received an award from the Antique Automobile Club of America.
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- VIN Code3133M
