Description

The Darracq Type N was an early French motorcar produced by the pioneering automobile manufacturer A. Darracq et Cie during the first decade of the 20th century. Built around 1904–1906, the Type N reflected the rapid evolution of automobile engineering during this period and exemplified the transition from horseless carriages to more sophisticated motor vehicles.

Alexandre Darracq, the company’s founder, was known for his forward-thinking approach and his belief in engineering precision. The Type N was one of several models produced in Darracq’s growing lineup, intended to appeal to the emerging class of private motorists seeking reliability, speed, and modernity.

The Type N was typically fitted with a four-cylinder engine, a notable upgrade from the single- and twin-cylinder designs of earlier years. The engine had a displacement of around 3.8 litres, producing in the range of 20 to 24 horsepower—substantial for its time. Power was transmitted through a manual gearbox to the rear wheels, and the car could reach speeds of up to 50 km/h (around 30 mph), which was considered quite brisk in the early 1900s.

The chassis was a traditional ladder-frame layout with semi-elliptical leaf springs and solid axles, typical of the era. The car featured tiller or wheel steering (depending on year and market), rear drum brakes, and a basic but functional dashboard. Coachwork was usually supplied by independent coachbuilders, so body styles varied—from open tourers to more formal sedans—though most surviving examples today are seen in stripped-down racing or sporting configurations.

The Darracq Type N became especially well-known in early motoring competitions and endurance events. Darracq cars were recognized for their strength and performance, often achieving competitive results in hill climbs, road races, and reliability trials across Europe. The Type N contributed to this reputation and helped establish Darracq as one of the foremost automotive marques in France before World War I.

Surviving examples of the Type N are extremely rare and highly valued by collectors. Their presence at veteran car rallies such as the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run serves as a reminder of the pioneering days of motoring, when automobiles were still finding their identity as machines of personal transport, competition, and innovation.