memories of the iconic Sprague Thomson sets on the Paris Métro

The Sprague-Thomson sets for the Paris Métro (series 500-600 and 800-1000) long symbolised the system, being introducd in 1908 and lasting until the final withdrawal from service in 1983.  Replacement sets had been arriving since the 1950s and in greater numbers by early 1970s. 

These trains were composed of 13.60 metre cars equipped with a drive cable (ligne de conduite) that allowed the driver to operate the motorised vehicles remotely. On this matériel electrical equipment was installed under the body and the compartment of the driver was minimized. Each power car (motrice) was powered by four engines of up to 175 horsepower each. The first class cars sported a red livery (or yellow for the former Nord-Sud lines); second-class ones were green or grey.   However, according to those who used them, the only difference between first and second class was the price. 

The Parisian transport authority RATP has preserved three Sprague-Thomson train sets, however, only one is usable by passengers.

A five car set crosses the Seine in 1971.

Here a set stops at Barbes-Rochechouart station in 1966 (Brian Stephenson photo).

 At the ramp leading from the Quai de la Rapée stop in the background.

 An interior view.

On the platform, unknown station and date.

Near the end in 1983 at the Oberkampf station.