Peugeot

The 203 was Peugeot's first new model launched after World War II. It was exhibited at the Paris Motor Show in 1947, but by then had already been under development for more than five years. Volume manufacturing was initially hampered by strikes and shortages of materials, but production got under way late in 1948, with buyers taking delivery of 203s from early 1949. The 203 was the first monocoque bodied production Peugeot. The car was eye catchingly modern and bore a resemblance to the Chevrolet Fleetline fastback. The four-door saloon was the major seller, but from 1950 a four-door Commerciale and a six-seat Familiale, with three rows of seats, were also offered on a wheelbase lengthened by 20 cm. 

In October 1952 the Paris Motor Show welcomed a modified 203 which now featured quarter light windows in the front doors and an enlarged rear window on the saloon versions. Also, a two-door coupé was introduced, although this was not as successful as hoped and quietly disappeared from the brochures a year later. The 203 was a massive hit in France, but a powerful competitor appeared in 1951 with the launch of the Simca Aronde. With the post-war economy finally beginning to experience useful growth there was ample capacity in the market for both cars and the 203 continued to sell well till the end of the decade.