How about stepping into a world where automotive history comes alive? That’s precisely what awaits us at the Museo Peugeot in Montevideo. It is a place where the legacy of a renowned brand unfolds. This museum is a tribute to Peugeot’s journey. It also honors the evolution of the automotive industry.
The Museo Peugeot is more than just a display of cars. It is a celebration of innovation and design. Here, in the heart of Montevideo, you can explore a carefully curated collection. It showcases Peugeot’s evolution over more than a century.
Let’s step inside. Notice the gleam of the polished floor. See how it mirrors a dream realized. It is a dream envied by brands across the region. The Museo Peugeot is located within the central headquarters of Sadar on Paraguay Street. Sadar is the company that represents Peugeot in Uruguay. Here, about a dozen classic cars share space with the latest models.
The story of this museum began in 1950. Nelson Güelfi and Jorge Soler laid Sadar’s cornerstone. Besides business, they had a passion for cars. They were early collectors who loved preserving automotive heritage. The Güelfi family continued this legacy. Manuel Güelfi spearheaded the restoration of the collection. The Peugeot 202 Darl’Mat was key. Its restoration in 1995 ignited a passion. The car even went to France for complex body work.
In the 1990s, the collection grew. It included a 1913 Bébé. Ettore Bugatti designed this. There was also a Six and a 402. These weren’t initially in display condition. The Darl’Mat effect changed that. The new millennium brought even more additions. A 404 cabriolet joined. So did a 404 sedan, a 403 pick up, a 504 coupe, a 205 GTI, and a 406 coupe.
But where could they keep them all? Manuel decided to unite the cars under one roof. He created a space for admiration and preservation. The solution? The showroom itself. The Museo Peugeot was born. It sacrificed floor space to house these classics. It was a decision driven by love for history. Also, it was driven by a desire to share with Peugeot fans.
Today, the Museo Peugeot continues to evolve. Don Manuel Güelfi’s vision guides improvements. The setting is modernized with new lighting. There is also an updated museography. A timeline wraps around the space. It tells the global and local story of Peugeot. Other items add context. There are grinders and a 1970s motorcycle. There are car accessories and promotional items. There are even pedal cars.
Every car in the Museo Peugeot is fully functional. Don Moyano keeps them running. He enjoys driving them on weekends. Sadar also participates in the Montevideo Classic Car Club. It showcases its collection at club events. These range from rallies to exhibitions. They even go beyond Uruguay’s borders. The Six, the 202 Darl Mat, and the 402 have appeared at Autoclásica in Argentina.
The collection’s cars have starred in Peugeot model launches. A memorable caravan marked the opening of a salesroom. It started in Pocitos. The Bébé completed the route. As Sadar celebrates 70 years, the collection remains active. Cars from the museum star in recordings. These take place at Montevideo landmarks. They are preparing an institutional video.
The Museo Peugeot is open. Visit Paraguay 1579. It is open from 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 6:30 PM. Discover the Peugeot sanctuary. Experience the living history of the French brand. It roars to life in Montevideo.