24h Le Mans
In the wake of World War I, Peugeot's financial situation was dire. Sales failed to kick back in gear despite the French marque's wins on the track until one car, the Peugeot Quadrilette, provided a lifeline. This success renewed Peugeot's commitment to a sporting programme and the commercial interest spurred on by the 24 Hours of Le Mans attracted the constructor to the legendary race.
Peugeot made its first appearance in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1926 with two Peugeot 174 Ss entered in the race. Having started at top speed, the two cars positioned themselves in the lead by the end of the first lap. Spectators witnessed a stunning battle between Peugeot, Lorraine-Dietrich and Bentley during the first hours of the race, with Peugeot dominating, but the order of the top 3 changed almost lap by lap. While the Lorraine-Dietrichs kept up a high pace, the Peugeot drivers started to slow down and trouble ensued.
According to the regulations at the time and to prove the resilience of production car equipment, a car's soft top had to remain in place for the first 20 laps of the race. It was installed just after drivers ran to their cars in the Le Mans-style start. This provision caused problems for the #2 Peugeot when part of its windscreen broke and the car was taken out of the race. Then the other Peugeot experienced starter trouble and was forced to retire. These problems took both Peugeot 174 Ss out of the classification shortly before the halfway point despite a remarkably promising start.
The temporary exhibition Peugeot: Allure Le Mans is available for viewing at the 24 Hours Museum until 30 September.
For more info, go to the 24 Hours Museum website.
