Page 1 of 1 André Moynet was a man of many talents with his exploits ranging from a World War II fighter ace to a politician. He also had a keen interest in motor racing and was found behind the wheel of sports cars in select events throughout the 1950s and the 1960s. In 1968, he combined his talents to create a competition car bearing his own name. Powered by a Simca engine, it was only raced twice, at Le Mans on Montlhery.
Now with the backing from Esso France, Moynet gave it another try in 1975 with a brand-new sports prototype. Built to Group 5 regulations, it featured a straightforward steel tubular chassis with independent suspension all-round. It was powered by a JRD tuned Simca engine, mated to a Porsche 5-speed gearbox. Considering Moynet's ongoing involvement with the French air force, it was no surprise that the aerodynamics of the small coupe were very well honed.
Moynet had ensured his 1975 Le Mans effort received sufficient attention by entering an all-female line-up in what had been declared the year of the woman. The drivers were Marianne Hoepfner, Michele Mouton and Christine Dacremont. They qualified 53rd but started the race 46th on the grid. Halfway through the race, the rev counter cable broke and with no replacement the drivers had to judge each shift by ear. They did so perfectly and eventually finished 21st and first in the Group 5 two-litre class.
Despite the Le Mans classi winning effort, the 1975 Moynet was not raced again. It was then stored for 35 years in a warehouse. Finally recovered, it was restored to full running order and campaigned at select historic events. Early in 2014, it was offered for sale by French dealer Atelier 46. Page 1 of 1
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André Moynet was a man of many talents with his exploits ranging from a World War II fighter ace to a politician. He also had a keen interest in motor racing and was found behind the wheel of sports cars in select events throughout the 1950s and the 1960s. In 1968, he combined his talents to create a competition car bearing his own name. Powered by a Simca engine, it was only raced twice, at Le Mans on Montlhery.