Achilles (automobile)

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1903 Achilles BE 54 on the 2008 London to Brighton veteran car run Achilles 1903 Two Seater on London to Brighton VCR 2008.jpg
1903 Achilles BE 54 on the 2008 London to Brighton veteran car run

The Achilles was an English shaft drive voiturette manufactured by B Thompson & Co. in Frome, Somerset between 1903 and 1908. [1]

A range of cars were advertised, mostly with single-cylinder engines by Aster and De Dion. Other mechanical parts were also bought in, and it seems likely that only the bodies were originated by Achilles. At least 5 different models were produced including the 8 hp, 9 hp and 12 hp. [2]

This car is notably seen in the French comic book Achille Talon, created by Michel Regnier (known by the pseudonym Greg), for the Pilote redaction.

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References

  1. British Motor Manufacturers Archived 28 April 2012 at the Wayback Machine
  2. The Motor-Car Journal, Volume 8, October 1906