[Auto] Peugeot Type 183/12 SIX, the six-cylinder of the people of the Great Depression

[G h o s t l y.]

For general manufacturers, the premium segment has always been present, although not with much success. Normally, these are in charge of building mid and low-end cars to motorize as many people as possible, seeking more profitability for the number of units sold than for the profit obtained for each copy. Peugeot is one of these brands, but even the lion firm has almost always kept some particularly interesting models in its range.

During almost 130 years of automotive production, the French company has offered current collectors some truly rare pearls that are highly sought after today. Such is the case of the Peugeot Type 183, better known as 12 SIX in reference to the French fiscal horsepower (12) and the number of engine cylinders (Six, for six). This model was launched in 1928 and represented the brand's gradual return to the luxury segment after World War I, but with an accessible product in contrast to the large established brands.
The company's last offering at this level was the Type 143, which had left the market in 1913. Manufactured at the facilities in Audincourt, a region bordering the Swiss border, between the end of 1927 and 1928, and in Sochaux until 1931 , the objective of the Peugeot Type 183 12 SIX was to offer its customers a wide range of bodies equipped with six-cylinder mechanics, but with a displacement below two liters. The result was a 1,991 cc unit that delivered 38 HP (38.5 CV) in the most basic versions (183 and 183 A).

 

With that horsepower, the acceleration was not very dazzling, but the main problem was another: the first versions presented reliability problems that, in some cases, even compromised the success of the project. This problem was quickly solved the following year with the arrival of the 183 C, equipped with a revised mechanics (RA3) where the power was increased by 4 HP. In 1930, the 183 D version received a new boost of energy to reach 47 HP (47.7 CV) but, above all, more customization capacity with new bodies.
 

With this latest version, the Peugeot 183/12 SIX reached its maturity with finishes that had nothing to envy to the superior ranges of other brands, a reliable mechanics and worthy performance for the time, although none of this would have served without a competitive selling price. Among the technological solutions adopted was the fuel tank located at the rear connected to a small manual pump mounted on a tank that could be used as a reserve in the span. The advantages of this system reduced the risk of fire and completely eliminated the smell of gasoline inside the cabin.

 

The 183 and 183 A models came with a 2,992mm wheelbase, supporting an overall length of 4,580mm and a width of 1,600mm. Various body shapes were offered, including a saloon / sedan and a limousine (Torpedo) that seats seven. Even the convertible version (Cabriolet) could accommodate four or five passengers. The interior of this model made the 183 a favorite with Paris taxi drivers, who could also opt for a family-type body or minibus, or even a delivery van.
 

Production of the Peugeot Type 183/12 SIX ended in 1931 with 12,626 units manufactured. A good result, especially if we take into account that it was launched on the eve of the tremendous crisis of 1929 (Crac 29). This elegant automobile managed to overcome an era that proved fatal to many other models and consequently led to the closure of numerous factories during the same period. In 1975 the same situation was almost replicated (first oil crisis) with the Peugeot 604 and its six-cylinder engine and, later in 1989, with the 605.