1955 Talbot-Lago T15 Coupe

After World War II came to an end, Talbot-Lago resumed automobile production and quickly regained its reputation for building high-performance racing cars and large luxurious passenger cars. Unfortunately, the company's finances were nearly depleted, and its customer base had also dwindled. Hoping to gain a new clientele, they produced a smaller version named the Baby. Body styles included a two-door cabriolet and a four-door sedan, with the sedan being the more popular version. A four-cylinder engine with twin overhead camshafts provided the power.

The United States market also appealed to Talbot-Lago, and a Lago 'America' version was built with BMW V8 power.

This particular vehicle began life wearing one-off coachwork by French coachbuilder Barou, reportedly the one used at the 1951 Paris Salon. The chassis was based on a Talbot-Lago prewar design similar to the Grand Sport Longue, on a 116-inch wheelbase. Power was from a four-cylinder engine with lateral upper camshafts and twin Solex carburetor offering 110 horsepower. Several years later, presumably, the roof was removed and replaced, possibly by Barou, to modernize its appearance. From 1953 through 1954, Barou used the vehicle primarily for exhibition.

A Talbot dealer named Louis Cremer purchased the car in 1957 and retained it for a decade until 1967, when Mr. Dupond purchased the car. During Dupond's ownership, the aluminum head was replaced using a NOS unit, fitted to the original engine. Mr. Dupond retained the car until he sold it back in 1977 to Mr. Cremer, who used it mainly as a showpiece at a dealership.

This Talbot has never been restored and has been carefully preserved. It has Borrani wire wheels, hydraulic brakes, a Wilson preselector gearbox, and 22,000 kilometers on the odometer. The paint appears to be original, with minor areas of dimpling. The trunk lid, doors, and hood were made from lightweight aluminum.

It is recorded as the 22nd bodied by Barou.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2018