Because the interwebs are crammed full of crazy things, and sometimes the purpose of those things is not immediately discernible, we present WTF Is It?
WTF is it?
The Inter 175A Berline, a three-wheeled autoscooter a French aircraft building firm created for the 1953 Paris Motor Salon and then produced in a run of about 300 models later in the decade.
What’s it do?
Considering those 300 models have dwindled to fewer than 30, Inter Autoscooters mostly just collect dust in museums — except this model, which is hitting the block February 8th.
Who makes it?
Le Société Nationale de Construction Aéronautique du Nord (SNCAN), a formerly state-owned firm based in central France that mainly made aircraft and missiles before going belly up in 1970.
Is it in any way useful?
For aspiring pilots who dream of flying but are scared of heights, it may. The Inter Autoscooter has a number of aeronautically inspired features, including a whirring helicopter-style starting system, hinged canopy, tandem seats, a tapered tail and a handlebar for steering.
How fast could it go?
The Autoscooter’s single-cylinder motor and three-speed transmission could boost it to 50 MPH.
Kind of impressed. Anything else?
Yup. The car’s front suspension was able to fold in a way to reduce its width from 4.4 to 2.9 feet.
How much is the model Sotheby’s is selling expected to fetch?
Anywhere from $53,000 to $75,100.
Should I buy it?
If you feel like doing your part to take care of an endangered species from overseas, we say oui.
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