1947 Delahaye Type 135 MS

Delahaye introduced their (arguably) most famous model, the Type 135, at the 1935 Paris Auto Show and remained in production until 1954 with approximately 2,000 examples built. It provided the foundation for all Delahaye models that followed and was produced in several variations and iterations, with the most powerful of which is the 135 MS, or 'Modifie Special,' introduced in 1938. The inline six-cylinder engine was equipped with three carburetors, helping to produce 135 horsepower and giving it a top speed of 100 mph, making it among the fastest automobiles in the world.

The Type 135 had a 3.2-liter overhead valve straight-six engine, with a four-bearing crankshaft, derived from one of the company's truck engines. In the twin carburetor configuration, it offered 95 horsepower, and with three downdraught Solex carburetors installed, it offered 110 horsepower. There was an independent, leaf-sprung front suspension, a live rear axle, and cable-operated Bendix brakes. Transmission options included a partially synchronized four-speed manual or four-speed Cotal pre-selector transmission. 17-inch spoked wheels were standard equipment.

In 1936, Delahaye introduced a larger displacement (3,557cc) engine in the 135M, with engine options including 90, 105, or 115 hp with either one, two, or three carburetors. The sporty 135MS produced 120-145 hp, with competition versions producing over 160 horsepower.

When peacetime resumed and following the liberation of Paris in 1944, Delahaye initially concentrated on building trucks. Like most automobile manufacturers, Delahaye offered a mildly updated version of the pre-war design rather than an entirely new product. When the Type 135 re-entered production in 1946, it was a mildly updated version of the pre-war model. It had been elegantly restyled with a unique radiator grille and hood, the work of a young freelance designer named Philippe Charbonneaux. It retained the 'Bloctube' welded box-section chassis and the effective independent front suspension layout. They had right-hand steering and self-adjusting cable brakes.

Two models were offered, the Type 135M with a single Solex carburetor, and the 135 MS ('Modifiée Spéciale) with a triple carburetor setup offering 125 horsepower. Most customers selected the standard four-speed mechanical box, with the Cotal optional. Only the MS rode on Rudge center-lock wheels as standard.

Between 1946 and 1952, the total production of both types was 1,155.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2019