Michelin XAS vintage road map 86/98, old yellow retro car guide

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique road map features an iconic bright yellow cover, typical of Michelin editions from the second half of the 20th century. On the front, the central visual highlights a tire with a characteristic tread pattern, accompanied by the inscription "MICHELIN XAS" in red and yellow lettering, emphasizing the brand's range of high-performance tires. The complementary text, in blue, states: "safety, comfort even at the highest speeds," illustrating its technical and advertising positioning at the time.

The upper and lower right corners of the cover display the numbers "86" and "98" respectively in a blue circle, suggesting references to zones or routes covered by this edition. The map also features the famous Michelin Bibendum drawn in watermark under the main text, reinforcing the brand's authenticity and visual identity. The paper texture hints at a slight matte grain, typical of old road editions, without any apparent glossy finish.

The item is presented standing on a wooden table, in an old library setting, which highlights its retro and decorative character. No details of the back or inside pages are visible in the photo; only the front of the map is shown.

The graphic design, typography, and use of colors suggest an edition likely dating from the 1970s to 1980s, a period during which Michelin heavily promoted the XAS range for passenger and racing vehicles. The overall effect gives this road map a vintage and authentic look, sought after for decoration or automotive archiving.

The map appears to be in normal used condition for its age, with slight handling marks visible on the cover, but no major apparent defects (tears, significant stains, or pronounced creases not visible on the presented side).

Condition

Used item, sold as is, as seen in the photo. Normal traces of use related to age, cover generally clean.

Did you know? The Michelin XAS tire, introduced in 1965, was the first asymmetric tread tire designed to offer increased stability at high speeds. It marked a turning point in automotive tire history, particularly for sports and luxury vehicles in Europe.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping ensured by a professional seller specializing in antique and vintage items.

Keywords: old Michelin map, vintage road guide, retro car map, yellow road map, old road map, Michelin XAS, car advertising map, old paper map, garage decoration, Michelin map 70s, vintage wall decoration, road map France