Rediscovering Childhood Joys: A Tank for Sale
Finding ways to revel in the spirit of childhood can lead to extraordinary choices. Sure, you could invest in a Lamborghini or Ferrari, or even construct a nostalgic treehouse for youthful escapades with friends. However, there’s an unconventional option that often eludes enthusiasts: purchasing a tank.
Surprising Offerings from Bring a Trailer
If a tank piques your interest, look no further than Bring a Trailer, an auction platform known for its eclectic inventory. Currently featured is the AMX 13/75, a light tank crafted by Ateliers de construction d’Issy-les-Moulineaux in France during the 1960s. Designed to be air-transportable for paratrooper support, approximately 7,700 of these tanks were produced between 1952 and 1987.
This particular model has a storied past; initially exported to the Dominican Republic, it served in that country’s military before making its way to the UK. Refurbished around 2007, it was later placed in storage until it found a new owner in the United States in 2023. The current seller has performed several upgrades, including deactivating the cannon and conducting routine maintenance.
The Tank: A Unique Machine
Beneath its classic olive drab exterior lies a SOFAM 8-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a robust drive system. With a speedometer reading that peaks at 84 km/h (approximately 52 mph) and a redline at 4,200 rpm, it’s safe to say the AMX 13/75 won’t be outpacing a Dodge Hellcat any time soon.
Key features include a hydraulically operated oscillating turret, an inoperative 75mm cannon, non-functional smoke grenade launchers, crew hatches, and a pintle hitch. Adding to its charm is the inscription "Crains Degun" on the turret, translating to "Fear No One," a fitting motto for navigating the most chaotic highways.
The Allure of Acquisition
For those questioning the practicality of tank ownership, it’s essential to recognize that such purchases often defy conventional reasoning. Tanks, like firetrucks or ambulances, hold a unique fascination due to their sheer size and the commanding presence they exude.
As the auction for this nostalgic piece of machinery wraps up on Christmas Eve, it’s already attracting significant attention, with 16 bids, nearly 900 watchers, and over 10,000 views. It will be intriguing to see who emerges as the new owner and what imaginative purposes they have in mind for their armored acquisition. Convincing an unsupportive partner of the merits of such a purchase, however, may prove to be a challenge.
Source:www.autoblog.com
