Georges Irat began his venture into automobile manufacturing in the early 1920s, initially building cars powered by a 1,900 cc motor. By 1926, the company had introduced a six-cylinder 2985 cc engine and positioned its vehicles as high-quality, luxury automobiles. The company’s slogan, "The Car of the Elite," reflected this commitment to quality. However, sales were hampered by the global economic depression of the 1930s.
In 1934, Georges Irat merged with Godefroy et Levecque, builders of the renowned Ruby engine. The Ruby engines had already earned a solid reputation in racing, which made them a desirable choice for small manufacturers. This collaboration marked a new era for Georges Irat, culminating in the creation of the 1935 Georges Irat FWD Roadster.
The 1935 Georges Irat Roadster was a forward-thinking vehicle, featuring front-wheel drive and independent suspension, which were advanced technologies for the time. This model was powered by a 1,078 cc Ruby inline 4-cylinder engine, paired with a 4-speed front-wheel drive transaxle. This setup provided a blend of performance and handling that appealed to enthusiasts and elite customers alike.
The car's design was elegant and sporty, embodying the luxurious yet innovative spirit of Georges Irat. Despite its high standards of construction and quality, production numbers were relatively low, with only 1,500 units built from 1935 - 1938.
In the fall of 1941, Georges Irat introduced a small electric car, but production was halted during World War II. Post-war efforts saw the introduction of several small vehicles at auto shows, but these did not reach significant production, and the company eventually ceased operations in 1953.
Our 1935 Georges Irat Roadster has been meticulously built and restored to high standards, featuring the 1,078 cc Ruby engine and its original front-wheel drive transaxle. This vehicle is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and innovation.
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