Lot 183: 1939 Puch 59cc Styriette

The Austrian firm of Puch, arguably the leading specialists in Europe in two-stroke engines in the period before WW2, took the decision to produce a light auto-cycle in 1938. This move reflected that of most other western countries, such machines proving invaluable in the ensuing conflict. The Puch ‘Styriette’ was the result, with a 60cc two-stroke engine of almost clip-on style. The museum’s ‘Styriette’ was rescued from the hands of a ‘Schrotthandler’ or scrap-man in 1980. In distressed condition, it was then fully rebuilt, mechanically and cosmetically, by vintage restorers Ertl of Vienna. It has been on display since, necessitating safety checks before use.