1956 Talbot-Lago T14 LS Coupe

In the post-World War II era, most of the cars were bodied in-house by the automakers. Only a few companies relied on coachbuilders to perform their craft, fitting hand-formed bodies onto their chassis. In France, most of the vehicles produced were either small-displacement urban conveyances or ultra-luxury expensive vehicles. This was due to high taxes and government regulations, among other reasons.

At the Paris Auto Salon in 1955, Talbot-Lago introduced a car that went against the grain; it had a capable powerplant and stylish good looks. The engine was a twin-overhead cam unit mated to a four-speed gearbox. The construction was tubular, featuring an independent front setup comprised of upper and lower A-arms. Carlo Delaisse, the chief designer for Letourneur et Marchand, penned the seductive lines of the new show car.

Though the car would become a commercial failure, it was a refreshing new design for French enthusiasts. The T14 was an expensive car, costing twice as a Jaguar XK140.

This example was registered in France on May 15th, 1956. It is believed that in 1957 it was in new ownership and given new registration. By 1991, it was in the care of a Paris resident. By 2005, it had been purchased by a German dealer, who sold it to Mr. James Weddle of st. Louis, Missouri, the following year. It later entered the Michael Schudroff collection.

The engine is a dual overhead cam four-cylinder unit offering 120 horsepower with the help of the dual Zenith carburetors. There is a four-speed Pont A Mousson manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

In 2009, this Talbot-Lago was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's auction held at Pebble Beach, California. The lot was estimated to sell for $150,000 - $200,000. The lot was sold for the sum of $148,500, inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2010