Techno Classica 2015: Peugeot shows off 402 Eclipse

A Peugeot 402 Eclipse was the highlight of the French carmaker’s stand at this year’s Techno Classica.

This example of the 402, which was launched in 1935 to compete with the Citroen Traction Avant, boasted a coachbuilt body that transformed it from a saloon into a coupe-cabriolet.

But while the Traction Avant boasted a revolutionary monocoque chassis and front-wheel drive, the 402 was based on much more conventional underpinnings.

Don’t think the Peugeot lacked ambition, though - just check out that streamlined shape with its recessed door handles. The 402 was even available with a diesel engine and an automatic transmission.

The Thirties car was joined by a V6 version of the 504, which was named European Car of the Year shortly after its launch in 1968.