1949 Talbot-Lago T-26 Record Drophead Coupe

The Talbot-Lago T26 Record Series was introduced in 1946, just after the conclusion of World War II. The T26 Record immediately secured the title, 'World's Most Powerful Production Car.' Under the bonnet was a 4.5-liter engine derived from the company's robust Grand Prix power. The engine had twin Stomberg EX 32 carburetors, hemispherical combustion chambers and a compression ratio of 7.0:1. There were twin camshafts mounted high in the cylinder block, which aided in lightening the valve gear and increased durability in higher RPM cycles. The engine produced an impressive 170 horsepower. The engine was mated to a four-speed Wilson Pre-selector gearbox with the epicycle gear trains engaged and disengaged by brake bands operated by a pedal.

Racing had helped Talbot-Lago gain international success and recognition. It led to the increased development of their engines and mechanical components. The downside was that it drained the company's resources and depleted the company's cash reserve.

This 1949 Talbot-Lago T26 Record Drophead Coupe has coachwork by Dubos. It is finished in electric blue with cream trim and was first sold to a famous French beverage house, Marie Brizard of Bordeaux. The beverage house had been founded in 1755 and, over the years, grew into a major purveyor of drinks. In 1949, it embarked on a nationwide publicity campaign to promote its products.

The Paris-based Dubos coachbuilders received this vehicle as a bare chassis with chrome wire wheels. Like many in the trade, the Dubos Company had gotten their start as a coachbuilder of horse-drawn carriages. They reluctantly converted to automobile construction in the mid-1920s. In 1945, they moved to Puteaux and soon became one of Talbot's favored suppliers of semi-custom coachwork.

Production of the Grand Sport Talbots lasted until 1955.

This car was offered for sale at the 2006 Bonhams & Butterfields auction held at the Quail Lodge in Carmel, California, where it was estimated to sell between $100,000 - $140,000. Its list of owners includes the legendary Rosso Bianco Collection. At the auction, the estimated value proved to be accurate, as the car was sold for $122,500.

In 2010, the car was offered for sale at the Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia auction presented by Bonhams. It was estimated to sell for $250,000 - $300,000 but was unable to find a buyer willing to satisfy the car's reserve.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2010