1938 Delahaye Type 135 Cabriolet

Delahayes have always been remarkable automobiles. They are interesting, quick, responsive, and very often astonishing to look at. Emile Delahaye began building rear-engined, belt-driven cars in 1894. Introduced at the 1935 Paris Salon, the Type 135 was a delight with its spirited and lively chassis, independent front suspension, light steering, and buttery-smooth Cotal electromagnetic gearbox. In racing form, the 135 Series was a fierce competitor, taking the first six places at the 1936 Marseilles race, a second at Le Mans in 1937, and first, second, and fourth place at Le Mans in 1938.

In 1938, a new, top-of-the-line model of the Type 135 was introduced at the 1938 Paris Salon, the MS (Modifeee Speciale). Its power plant was a thoroughly updated version of the existing 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine. A larger cylinder head and bigger valves improved breathing and horsepower was increased to 130hp and with proper gearing and slippery coachwork, could reach an incredible top speed of 110 mph.

In spite of the performance, it is the coachwork that defines a Delahaye. The greatest artists of the time created some of their best work on Delahaye chassis; Henri Chapron, Letourner et Marchand, Saoutchik, Guillore, Franay, and Graber were just a few whose art graced Delahayes. However, if one coachbuilding firm deserves special distinction, it would be Figoni et Falaschi.

This is the long-wheelbase (2.95-meter) version of the Paris Salon Cabriolet, which was introduced in 1936. The striking art deco design was described when new as 'seemingly molded by the wind itself.' Designed by French motoring artist Geo Ham, this 135 M was built by Figoni & Falaschi with a voluptuous body that features completely enclosed wheels with headlights integrated into the fenders and a split windshield that can be folded flat for a rather rakish appearance.

Only ten of these unique Paris Salon Delahaye roadsters were originally constructed by Figoni and just three are known to survive today. Figoni specifically crafted this and similar automobiles for cruising the straight tree-lined avenues of France in the late 1930s - and they were dubbed the 'Grand Routiere,' the precursor to the Gran Turismo that dominated Italian coachbuilding in the 1950s.

Purchased new by a Mr. Fould of Oran, Algeria, this car was discovered in 1992 under an olive tree in the Algerian mountains. It was purchased for the sum of just 60 British pounds.