Solex, mehari, 2cv, vw, retro and vintage rides
Visit Solex, Mehari and 2CV embody the spirit of walks and hiking retro which are becoming increasingly popular with vintage enthusiasts. These emblematic local vehicles offer a unique way to rediscover landscapespicturesque villages and roads with the charm of a bygone age.
Visit Solexwith its unobtrusive front-mounted engine and minimalist styling, is perfect for a bucolic escapade through fields and back roads. Light and silent, it lets you enjoy the rhythm of nature to the full. In town, it's a real eye-catcher, instantly evoking the gentle lifestyle of the 50s and 60s.
Visit Mehariwith its ABS plastic bodywork and sunroof, is ideal for trips by the sea or along country lanes. The 4×4 version can even be used to explore more rugged trails. It's the perfect vehicle for lovers of freedom and adventure.
As for the mythical 2CVshe embodies the pleasure of vintage road trips. Its soft suspension, canvas roof and iconic design make it the ideal companion for criss-crossing the winding roads of the French regions, discovering local markets or taking a picnic break in the great outdoors.
Numerous clubs and agencies are now offering vintage car toursA blend of heritage, gastronomy and scenery. These experiences appeal as much to nostalgic travelers as to younger generations in search of authenticity.
Treat yourself to a Solexan escapade in Mehari or a ride in 2CVis to plunge back into a time when people took the time to travel, with the wind in their hair and a smile on their faces.
Solex, retro rides in France
Visit Solexa French icon renowned for its simple design and front-mounted engine, is enjoying a veritable renaissance. Combining retro charm and innovation, this motorized bicycle inspires enthusiasts and lovers of soft mobility. Discover the fascinating history of the Solexfrom the country where it was born to its triumphant return today. This symbol of light-hearted freedom invites you to rediscover a timeless classic.
Origins: the birth of Solex
The brand Solex was founded in 1910, specializing in carburetors, accessories and parts for cars and motorcycles.. In 1940, Marcel Mennesson laid the foundations for a front-engine bicycle.. The prototype saw the light of day in 1941, with a 38 cm³ engine mounted on the bike's front wheel.. In the post-war years, the concept became a reality: the first VéloSoleX arrived on the market in 1946. .
The VéloSoleX boom after 1946
The VéloSoleX is an instant hit. Its simplicity, easy maintenance and attractive price make it the ideal companion for high-school pupils, students and workers.. Between 1946 and 1988, over 7 million units were sold in some sixty countries, with a record of 380,000 in 1964.. In France, it became a cultural symbol, appearing in films, on television and in popular references. .
Technical specifications and emblematic models
Each Solex is distinguished by its 49 cm³ two-stroke enginehis transmission roller on the front wheel, and minimalist yet effective styling. Flagship models :
S3300 basic 60s version
S3800 (1966): 0.8 hp motor, reinforced frame, plastic tank, revolving handle
Micron model without pedals, considered a moped
5000 (1971): 16″ wheels, various colors
Plisolex (1973): folding version, rare
Tenor Franco Morini engine, suspension and gearbox
e-Solex (since 2006): electric motor, new design
Cultural and media impact
Visit Solex has become a legend. Steve McQueen, Brigitte Bardot and Catherine Deneuve are all fans.. His retro look was referenced in the films "Le Gendarme se marie" (1968), "Ma nuit chez Maud" (1969), "The Three-Days of the Condor" (1975) and more recently in "La Belle Époque" (2019) and "Mr Bean" (2007).. Friendly races such as the Rock'n Solex in Rennes have been held since 1967.. A private museum dedicated to Solex exists in Wissembourg, Alsace.
Production and the Solex brand today
Production ceased in France in 1988. But the brand was reborn thanks to licenses in Hungary and China and the relaunch of the e-Solex in 2006. . In 2013, the Rebirth group (formerly Easybike) bought the brand and relocated production to France, in particular to Saint-Lô. . The resurgence of electric-assist bicycles is breathing new life into the heritage of the Solex.
Maintaining a Solex
To preserve a Solex:
Storage dry, frost-free
Catering mechanical restoration, painting, engine overhaul
Communities clubs, forums, NOS parts, meetings
Events flea markets, Rock'n Solex, gatherings
Spare parts are still available in France, China and Hungary.
1. How old do you have to be to drive a Solex ?
In France, from the age of 14 without a licence, thanks to its moped status.
2. What is the maximum speed of a VéloSoleX?
The most common, the 3800, reaches speeds of around 35-40 km/h..
3. What type of fuel should I use?
Blend of unleaded gasoline with 6 % mineral oil from Solexine.
4. Where can I find spare parts?
On specialized websites, clubs, vintage markets or imports from China/Hungary .
5. e-Solex, electric bike or moped?
The e-Solex is an approved electric moped with a rear-wheel motor..
Solex conclusion
Visit Solex symbolizes more than just a motorized bicycle: it's a blend of simplicity, d'French eleganceof sustainable modernity and popular culture. Whether it's the classic models or the new electric version, the Solex continues to inspire. Rediscover this generational icon, and let yourself be seduced by its timeless charm.
Mehari, a retro ride in France
The legendary Citroën MéhariSince its launch in 1968, the Méhari, the country's emblematic leisure car, has combined simplicity and originality. A true icon of outdoor freedom, the Mehari continues to fascinate with its lightweight design and colorful ABS bodywork. In this article, discover the history, evolution and heritage of this atypical vehicle.
Origins and meaning of the name Mehari
The brainchild of Roland de La Poypefighter pilot and plastics industrialist, the Méhari takes its name from the Saharan dromedarya symbol of ruggedness and off-road endurance. The prototype appeared at SEAB in the autumn of 1967, based on a 2CV chassis, with ABS bodywork tinted throughout..
Design & technical innovations
The Mehari is distinguished by :
a ABS plastic bodywork ultra-light, corrosion- and light-impact-resistant,
a 602 cm³ flat-twin engine, inherited from the 2CV/Dyane, developing 29 hp for a top speed of 105 km/h,
a independent suspension on A-Series chassis, perfect for light off-road use.
The first models had no doors; in 1970 Citroën introduced doors and a full tarpaulin..
Launch & production (1968-1987)
Presented at Deauville on May 16, 1968, the Mehari initially shared the bill with Mai 68, but quickly won over the public.. Between 1968 and 1987, Citroën produced around 145 000 units at 8 sites (France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal). Key developments :
1970: modified bodywork, doors and lights from HY,
1979: modernized dashboard, disc brake, 4×4 version .
4×4 & special edition versions
Visit Mehari 4×4produced from 1979 to 1983, offers all-wheel drive, disc brakes, gearboxes and increased crossing capacity (up to 60 %).. In 1986, Citroën launched the limited series Azur (white & blue), as well as the Beach very summery .
Military use & cultural aura
From 1972, theFrench army control of Méhari vehicles, nearly 100 of which are equipped with a 24V electrical system for radio control. . This open-air vehicle appears regularly in film, television and music videos, reinforcing its popular and quirky aura. .
Worldwide production & variants
In addition to the European sites, Citroën exports the Mehari via kits or local production, in particular :
the Baby-Brousse (Ivory Coast),
the FAF (Senegal),
clones in Argentina, Uruguay and Vietnam.
Electric Renaissance: e-Méhari and modern replicas
Between 2016 and 2019, Citroën is launching thee-Méhariadapted from the Bolloré Bluesummer with 30 kWh electric motor, 100-200 km range and 110 km/h top speed. The car is assembled in Rennes and sold for ~€25,000 excluding battery bonus.. Since 2016, handmade electric replicas from Provence and northern France have been produced..
A new generation e-Méhari is planned for 2025, focusing on an electric SUV convertible, according to Citroën.
Restaurants & communities in France
Visit Mehari Club Cassis and other associations supply original parts, ABS molds and complete restoration services . The used vehicle market remains buoyant, with original models and 4×4s in high demand.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Mehari
1. Who designed the Mehari?
Designed in 1967 by Roland de La Poype on a 2CV chassis with ABS bodywork..
2. How many copies were produced?
Approximately 145,000 units between 1968 and 1987.
3. What is the power and speed?
The petrol version develops 29 hp, with a top speed of 105 km/h. .
4. What off-road options are available?
4×4 version with gearbox, all-wheel drive, career tank .
5. What special series are available?
Editions Azur, Beachand the 4×4are in demand .
6. Where are restoration parts made?
In Cassis, Ardenne, and via clubs, where bodywork is recreated in its original color .
7. Can you drive one without a license?
No, it's a car: you need a B license.
8. What is the e-Méhari's range?
It reaches between 100 and 200 km in mixed use.
9. Where is the e-Méhari assembled?
At the PSA plant in Rennes, Brittany.
Conclusion Mehari
Visit Citroën Méhari embodies an audacious vision of mobility: a outdoor vehicle simple, light, colorful and durable. From its birth in the dunes of Deauville to its electric renaissance, the Mehari has left its mark on an entire generation. Its lightness, modularity and freedom of spirit continue to seduce enthusiasts and collectors alike. Rediscover this myth and let yourself be carried away by its unique spirit!
2CV, retro tour of France
Visit Citroën 2CVa symbol of accessible freedom andeconomic ingenuityis a French automotive legend, designed to revolutionize mobility. Conceived at the height of the post-war era, its minimalist design and user-friendly spirit captured the hearts of the French. Discover its fascinating history simplicity, ingenious technique and cultural heritage.
From the revolutionary origins of the 2cv: the TPV project
From 1936Citroën launches the POS (Toute Petite Voiture), guided by Pierre Boulanger, with the audacious aim of creating a vehicle capable of transporting a basket of eggs across a freshly ploughed field without breaking them.. Tested at the Paris Show in 1948its sturdiness and rustic design appeal to a curious public .
Remarkable design and technical innovations
Visit 2CV benefits from ingenious features:
Interconnected suspension designed to absorb the irregularities of rural roads .
Engine two-cylinder boxer front-mounted air-cooled (375 to 602 cm³), very easy to maintain.
Lightweight body with canvas roof, sliding windows and removable structure.
The result is an economical vehicle, with fuel consumption of around 5 L/100 kmable to maintain close to 100 km/h on the road .
Production and flagship models (1948-1990)
The 2CV was produced between 1948 and 1990with more than 3.8 million copies sedans and 1.2 million vans. Assembly in France, but also in Portugal, Belgium, Argentina, UK, and other countries. The best-known versions include :
Type A (375 cm³, 9 hp), very rustic.
AZ/AZA (425 cm³, 12 hp), rear hatch added.
AZL/AZLP (1956/1961), "luxury" versions with defroster and tailgate6.
2CV 6 (602 cm³, 29 hp), the most powerful.
Sahara 4×4rare, twin-engine, all-wheel-drive model.
Published by Charleston, Dolly, SpecialThese are highly prized by collectors.
Cultural impact and popular heritage
The 2CV, nicknamed "l'Ente" (the can in German), has stood the test of time:
Popular in both rural and urban areas.
Present in the cinema - particularly in James Bond: For Your Eyes Only -and in popular culture.
It has given rise to memorable raids (Paris-Kabul), clubs and gatherings (over 160 in France)..
2 cv, an economical, easy-to-maintain car
The sturdiness and simplicity of the 2CV make it a highly reliable car:
Air-cooled motor without complex circuitry.
Very accessible suspension and structure.
Large network of spare parts for clubs, forums, events and professionals.
Active conservation: 2CV still very present on the roads, testifying to its durability.
The last model: the end of an iconic era
The last copy, a 2CV6 Charlestonwas delivered from the Mangualde (Portugal) plant on July 27, 1990 it is now on display at the MNA museum in Mulhouse.
FAQ about Citroën 2CV
1. What does 2CV ?
"Deux chevaux fiscaux", a name derived from the French tax system.
2. Which engine for the 2CV?
Flat-twin engine from 375 to 602 cm³, power ratings from 9 to 29 hp.
3. Why is the suspension unique?
It is interconnected, offering exceptional comfort on bumpy roads.
4. What is the 2CV Sahara?
A 4×4 version with two engines, 694 units produced (1958-1971) .
5. What is the Charleston?
Special two-tone edition launched in 1980, very popular with collectors.
6. Can it be driven without a license today?
No, a B license is required (it is registered as a car).
7. Where can I find parts?
At one of the many clubs, online or at dedicated trade shows.
8. Is it good for the collection?
Yes: robustness, charisma, parts availability and nostalgic value.
9. Average used price ?
Models in good condition range from €8,000 to €15,000, depending on version and restoration. .
Conclusion 2CV retro tour in France
Visit 2CV embodies a unique philosophy: simplicity, economy, strength and conviviality. A true people's car, it shaped post-war France and remains a symbol of joyful mobility. Whether for collecting, restoring or simply admiring, rediscover this living legend that has left its mark on our national - and international - imagination.
VW Vintage and retro rides in France
Visit Vintage VWincluding the legendary Beetle (Beetle), symbolize the soul of retro road-tripping around the world. Introduced in 1938 as a people's car, the Beetle has enjoyed worldwide success: over 21 million copies products, surpassing the Ford Model T in 1972. Its rounded design, air-cooled rear engine and simple, economical reliability have all contributed to its success.
Riding in Vintage Beetleis to rediscover the spirit of an era: "Think Small" ads (1959), hippie culture, cult films like Herbie or Annie Hall. The §1200§, §1300§, §1500§ and §1600§ models have evolved over the decades, offering enthusiasts a wide choice of versions..
But that's not all: the famous VW camper vanslike the Type 2 Bay Window and Westfalia, inaugurated the concept of the van life. These combis encouraged liberated escapades, as evidenced by trips on Route 66 or the communities vanlifers .
Today, Beetles and vintage combis are the stuff of nostalgia. They're often seen at retro rallies, festivals and beach getaways, with their sunroofs, vinyl radios and bohemian ambience. The network of enthusiasts, specialized garages (such as Bugoholics in the USA) and clubs facilitate maintenance and convivial encounters.
Opt for a Vintage VWThe choice of a car is a journey back in time, a tangible link with automotive history. These sturdy, customizable cars are also suitable for electric conversions, paving the way for a new generation of electric cars. retro & green road-trip.
Visit Beetleborn in the 1930s, still captivates with its rounded design, mechanical simplicity and smooth ride. Its cosy interior brings you closer to the countryside: mountains, vineyards or the seaside. Ideal for a romantic getaway or an outing with friends, it evokes the spirit of contemplative journeys. Its sunroof lets you enjoy the wind and the smells, while its low fuel consumption makes it an ally for long days.
Visit VW Transporterthe legendary multi-purpose van (T1, T2, T3...), offers space and practicality. Fitted out as a combi, van or camper, it can be used to carry picnic equipment, hiking gear or surfboards. It's the ideal companion for a trip with friends or family, with the freedom to stop wherever you like. Vintage versions with pop-up roofs invite you to bivouac in the wilderness, in total freewheel mode.
These two vintage cars are often offered by clubs, specialized agencies or enthusiasts who organize special events. themed retro rides wine roads, listed villages, enchanting coastlines and forest trails. Our events combine nostalgia, cultural discovery and human encounters.
Opt for an outing in Beetle or Vintage transporteris to choose an authentic, sensory experience. You'll ride in silence, smell the scent of warm asphalt, enjoy stop-and-go tastings and the feeling of simple adventure. For a cool, stylish getaway, these vehicles remain among the finest ambassadors of old-fashioned travel.
FAQ - VW Vintage Beetle and Transporter
What is the history of the VW Beetle?
Visit Volkswagen Beetlecreated in 1938 and produced until 2003, is one of the world's best-selling models, with over 21 million sold. An icon of the 60s and 70s, it symbolizes freedom and retro style.
What are the key vintage VW Transporter models?
Visit Transport came in several generations: T1 (1950-1967) with split-window design, T2 (1967-1979) with panoramic windshield, and the more angular T3 (1979-1992). Camper versions like the Westfalia are highly sought-after.
Is it possible to rent a Beetle or a Transporter?
Yes, many agencies and clubs offer retro rides in a vintage VW. These rentals often include sightseeing itineraries, picnic baskets and tips for an authentic experience.
What are the advantages of a ride in a vintage VW?
It's a chance to enjoy a slower pace of travel, savor the scenery and relive the atmosphere of road trips of yesteryear. Visit Transport also offers the possibility of sleeping on board.
Are these vehicles suitable for long distances?
Yes, but you have to take their age into account. Well-maintained models can be ridden over long distances without any problem, but it's advisable to prefer secondary routes for more fun.
How much fuel does a vintage Transporter consume?
Depending on the model, fuel consumption varies between 9 and 13 L/100 km. This is still reasonable for a converted older vehicle.
Where can you find enthusiasts' clubs in France?
There are clubs dedicated to Beetle (e.g. Coccinelle Club de France) and the VW Combi who organize gatherings, convoy trips and vintage events.
Is the VW Transporter approved for bivouacs?
Yes, vintage motorhome versions such as the Westfalia have approved fittings: beds, kitchenette, pop-up roof.
