Car pics too cool not to share

There is just something about a bobber that does it for me...
1664676589190.png


1664676604383.png


1664676769275.png


1664676812528.png


1664677064228.png


1664677081465.png
 
1664679736495.png


1939 Sarolea 38H | Belgium
1f1e7_1f1ea.png


Announced in 1936 by the Belgian Ministry of Defense competition to develop a heavy army motorcycle designed for communications, supply and fire support caused a stir among local motorcycle companies.

The Sarolea designers opted for sidevalve engine, which is not picky about gasoline quality and has good traction at low rpm, which is important for the army vehicle. The 974 ccm engine provides 20 hp rating required for an extremely heavy (545 kg!) machine. The engine is made short-stroke (88x80 mm), to reduce at least a little its overall width. The ignition system is from magneto.

The real technical masterpiece is motorcycle's transmission. To the engine is docked three-speed gearbox with reverse gear and rocker switch mechanism of automobile type. The transmission to the rear wheel is a cardan shaft. The rear axle has a two-stage demultiplier, with a special linkage switch. Sidecar wheel drive can be turned off, but equipped with a differential it can be used on hard ground.

As a result of army tests, Sarolea received an order to produce only 300 Model 38H motorcycles.
 
That'd be my guess. But if they're the real deal, and not clones or tribute cars, then I'd venture a guess that someone will do it. Imagine not saving 'em, even though they were HEMI cars (just a supposition on my part). Just seems highly unlikely that they wouldn't put forth the effort in a case like that, at least.

I'd say the same. Assuming these are real cars (they look it), even if they are the more common "base" 440 and auto, their value needing a complete restoration is probably $100,000+. Assuming they are real-deal cars, I'd bet their scrap parts value would exceed $50,000, but I highly doubt these will be deemed scrap. The high mark for a restored HEMI 4-spped car is now $1,300,000

On a side note, I'm impressed with how strong the wing structure is. I've seen pics of girls sitting on them, but they seem to be strong enough to support the car to a point of damaging the quarter panel.
1664710232077.png
 
Here's a "base" 440 auto that was wreck damaged, rusty and missing parts that sold for $75,000 in 2005.
1664712885076.png


After a years-long restoration she's looking good. It sold for $346,500 in 2020. I'd bet the resto cost $150,000 or so.

1664713026583.png