1936 Hispano Suiza J-12 Convertible Victoria

The Hispano-Suiza J12, also known as the T68, was one of the elite vehicles produced by the prestigious Hispano-Suiza Company. The chassis alone cost upwards of $10,000, a small fortune in those days and more than most vehicles. The engines were similar to those found in fighter planes and powerful enough to carry these large and stately vehicles to a respectable speed. The chassis was outfitted by some of the greatest coachbuilders of the era.

The power plant is impressive but purists do not hold it in the same regard as the six-cylinder unit it was replacing. The H6 was constructed in both 6.5 and 8.0-liter configurations. Swiss engineer Marc Birkigt had adapted the technology used in aircraft engine technology to the unit. The crankshaft was formed from a solid steel billet that weighed 700 pounds. The 6.5-liter version had a one-piece aluminum cylinder block and an overhead camshaft. It proved its potential on numerous occasions winning races and various sporting contests.

The V-12 engine featured overhead valves and was renowned for its quiet operation.

This J12 was ordered in 1934 by Mr. Moll Van Charante, and delivered on January 29, 1935. During the Second World War, the car was hidden and reappeared soon after in the possession of Dr. E.P. Rink of the Wallon Hospital in Leiden, Holland. It was later owned by William A.M. Burden.

When it left Mr. Burden's possession, it was treated to a professional restoration. It was then shown by its owner, Alfredo Brener of Houston, Texas, at the 1994 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance where it won the Alec Ulmann trophy.

This car has a three-piece windshield and a secondary windshield for the rear passengers. There are side-mounted spares, rear-hinged doors, Marchal headlamps, and Rudge-Whitworth wire wheels. It wears one-off coachwork by D'Ieteren Freres.

In 2009, this Convertible Victoria was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona where it was estimated to sell for $900,000 - $1,200,000. The lot was sold for the sum of $880,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2009