1934 Hispano Suiza J12 Drop Head Coupe

The Hispano-Suiza J12 was one of the most expensive chassis of the 1930s, costing over $10,000. In many respects, compared to the cars from Bugatti, Alfa Romeo, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Isotta-Fraschini, the J12 was the superior design. The J12's 9.5-liter V12 engine could produce 220 brake horsepower, and the chassis was over-engineered to achieve a near-silent driving experience. The J12 was introduced at the 1931 Paris Auto Salon, and 120 were manufactured before production ceased in 1938.

The J12 was created for the discriminating buyer and priced well above what most could afford. The cars were fitted with every conceivable option of the time. The 575 cubic-inch V12 overhead valve engine produced 220 horsepower, which was needed considering that the car weighed over 5,000 pounds.

This car has simple but elegant lines, and it features interesting items like large Marchal headlamps, oval Scintilla taillamps, side spotlights, and a three-position Landau roof.

This is a magnificent survivor of only 120 originally manufactured in Bois Colombe, France. It has a 9424cc overhead valve 60-degree V12 9+ litre, 220 horsepower engine on a 147-inch wheelbase. The Fernandez and Darrin coachwork defines elegant simplicity. Body panels are relatively flat and devoid of complex curves and moldings, yet the overall lines are very graceful, from the continuous fender/running board line to the simple cut-down of the rear body section behind the doors. Other distinctive features include painted wheel covers, large Marchal headlamps, oval Scintilla tail lamp, side spotlight, Hispano-Suiza stork hood ornament, subtle V-windshield, delicate fender lamps, 3-position top landau arms and uncomplicated front and rear bumpers. Little is known of the early history but in October of 1954, Herbert Moller of Florida sold the car to Vernon Jarvis of Illinois. The car was acquired by the current collector in 1986.