1931 Voisin C18 Cabriolet “Myrte”
Chassis No: 400033
Make: Avion-Voisin
Model: C18
Body: Cabriolet
Year: 1931
A Masterpiece of Automotive Engineering
Originally an architect, Gabriel Voisin turned his focus to the emerging automobile industry after a successful career in aviation. Following World War I, he transformed his business into automotive manufacturing. Voisin’s cars were uniquely designed, lightweight, aerodynamic, and often made with exotic materials and advanced mechanical components.
One of Voisin’s core principles was safety, inspired by the tragic loss of his brother in an automobile accident. The C18 model, introduced at the 1929 Salon, embodied Voisin’s continued pursuit of smoothness, silence, and balance with its 60-degree V12 configuration. Initially, the C18 featured a 3.9L unit, which was later replaced by a 4.885L engine.
A Rare and Historic Voisin C18
- One of only three known Voisin 12-cylinder models
- Uniquely bodied, with an elegant and avant-garde design
- Only two owners since new
- Odometer shows just 2,700 kilometers, believed to be original
The 1931 Voisin C18 Cabriolet “Myrte”, chassis 400033, is one of the most significant surviving Voisin automobiles. Under the hood lies its impressive 4.885L 12-cylinder sleeve valve engine, a marvel of engineering even by today’s standards.
A Unique Survivor of the Voisin Legacy
This Voisin is one of only three known Voisin V12 models to have survived. The other two include:
- A C18, which remains in the Royal Family of Thailand’s collection.
- A C20 demi-berline, which is currently housed in a private collection in the United States.
This C18 received a new body in 1938 by Saliot, with its rear modified by a coachbuilder in Bayeux. During World War II, the car was stored with its original owner's family and remained untouched until 1958. The second owner, Alexis Dreye, purchased the car but only drove it for 20 kilometers before mechanical issues caused it to be stored again for many years.
A Testament to Voisin’s Genius
The Voisin C18 V12 was developed as a continuation of Voisin’s 12-cylinder legacy. In 1929, Voisin announced a 12-cylinder model, but due to high production costs, only a few were ever built. This explains the extreme rarity of the C18 Cabriolet Myrte.
In 1931, the car was featured in Voisin’s catalog, showcasing its advanced aerodynamics, art-deco styling, and state-of-the-art mechanical innovations. This specific model was one of the last produced and is regarded as a historical automotive monument.
The Dreye Collection and the Voisin C18
The Dreye family has a long history in the automotive world, originally specializing in horse-drawn carriages before moving into automobiles. Alexis Dreye II was a passionate automotive enthusiast, owning and restoring several classic vehicles.
After being stored for decades, Alexis Dreye oversaw the restoration of the Voisin C18 in 1975, including a full engine rebuild and paint renewal. However, even after the restoration, the car remained largely unused.
A Pebble Beach Contender
Since 2000, Voisin automobiles have won two "Best of Show" awards at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, a feat matched only by Delage and Mercedes. This C18 Cabriolet "Myrte" remains in near-original condition, making it a strong candidate for future concours events.
A Piece of Automotive History
The Voisin C18 Cabriolet "Myrte" is an automotive masterpiece, an icon of Voisin’s genius, and a testament to early 20th-century engineering and luxury. With its rare V12 engine, unique bodywork, and provenance from the Dreye collection, this car is an irreplaceable piece of history.
Key Features of the 1931 Voisin C18 Cabriolet "Myrte"
- Chassis No: 400033
- Make: Avion-Voisin
- Model: C18
- Body: Cabriolet
- Year: 1931
- Engine: 4.885L 12-cylinder sleeve valve
- Only 2 owners since new
- Odometer: 2,700 kilometers, believed to be original
- Stored for decades before being carefully restored
- One of only three known Voisin V12 automobiles