1924 Delage GL Skiff Torpedo Labourdette

The GL was Delage's first supercar, designed in 1923 to compete with Rolls-Royce, which had proclaimed itself the 'Best Car in the World.' The production run was very limited - only 180 chassis were created - from 1924 to 1927. The GL stands for grand luxe, and the car is, by the standards of its day, state of the art in every way. The straight-6-cylinder motor with overhead valves can produce 100 bhp and speeds of over 90 mph. The chassis cost $5,370 when new, and the custom coachwork added to the price, making it one of the most expensive luxury cars of its day. The lightweight, custom-built torpedo skiff body was made by Jean-Henri Labourdette of Paris. The body was constructed of ash ribs cross-planked with three layers of mahogany. It is believed to be one of the three original surviving Labourdette skiffs, and one of six GL chassis known to exist. This Grand Luxe was fitted with a Labourdette body when new. Jean-Henri Labourdette was a third generation coachbuilder. Constructed from wood with techniques normally used for boats, Skiffs were among the most exclusive machines available during the time. Due to the delicate nature of the materials used, very few have survived. During the 1970's it was discovered by British restorer Paul Grist in the collection of Sir Francis Samuelson being used as a tow vehicle. The original body was largely complete and intact. After a much-needed restoration, the car played a minor role in the 1981 film 'Chariots of Fire'.

This is one of just six GL chassis known to exist today. The car is powered by a 5954 cc six-cylinder engine developing 100 horsepower. In 2003, the skiff body was enhanced by Master Boat Builder Dewitt Whitman.