Antoinette (France) - AllCarIndex

Antoinette was a French automobile manufacturer based in Puteaux, Seine, primarily known for its production of aero engines rather than cars. The company gained attention at the 1906 Paris Salon, where it showcased a notable 7270 cc V8 engine that produced 32 horsepower. This innovative engine featured a hydraulic clutch with variable slip, eliminating the need for a traditional gearbox. The following year, in 1907, Antoinette exhibited a 16 horsepower four-cylinder car alongside the V8 model.

The V8 engine, designed by Léon Levavasseur, was named after the daughter of Jules Gastambide, one of the firm's partners. Although the engine was also utilized in British Adams and American Hewitt vehicles, it is estimated that no more than eleven examples of the V8 were produced. By December 1909, Antoinette had shifted its focus predominantly to aviation, manufacturing complete monoplanes at a rate of six to seven per month, in addition to continuing its production of engines.