A wolf in sheep’s clothing: this 1938 Delahaye 135M with coachwork by Figoni & Falaschi has got more grunt and power underneath the beautiful skin than one can imagine.
The model 135 with a lower chassis and a more powerful engine was first introduced at the Paris Auto Show in 1935 and completed the top of the range for Delahaye. According to the catalogue of the time “the car of the elite is born”.
In 1936 a special-order model, Model 135C (Competition) was introduced and soon proved itself with many victories including at Le Mans.
With the introduction of the 135M (M for Modifie) in 1938 much of the development work from the 135 Competition benefitted this model, among them the optional fitment of three Solex carburetors giving an additional 20HP.
Delahaye 135M Ch. 49165 with body number 682 was indeed ordered with the optional three carburetors giving a total output of 115HP from the 3557cc inline-six engine. The sound and the feel of the engine alone is enough reason to enjoy this Delahaye 135M on the road and with the beautiful coachwork by Figoni & Falaschi, the car really falls into place.
Figoni et Falaschi was France's most exclusive and famous coachbuilder from 1935 to 1955. To quote Jean-Paul Tissot, author of Delahaye: La belle Carroserie Francaise” :
“During the years 1938 and 1939, Atelier Figoni and Falaschi produced several convertibles and coupes on the 135 chassis. Each time, the design centered around an aerodynamic and aesthetic beauty”.
This specific Delahaye 135M Figoni & Falaschi Cabriolet, Chassis 49165, was completed in March 1938, and sold to Mr. Enrique De la Maria in Uruguay. The car was used by De La Maria until the mid-1950s when it was parked in the family garage.
It stayed hidden in the family garage up until the early 1990s, when Chassis 49165 was re-discovered and eventually sold to France where a thorough restoration was begun.
Many years later, in 2022, the restoration was finally completed in Denmark with its current owner, an avid collector of pre-war French cars who has a well-equipped in-house workshop and restoration facility. Delahaye 135M Chassis 49165 was restored with input and guidance from an experienced Villa d’Este concours judge.
The entire restoration process is extensively documented and the Delahaye now presents itself in stunning, ready to show condition.
Delahaye 135M Chassis 49165 is registered for the road with current Danish (EU) registration document.
It is highly recommended to see and feel the Delayhaye 135M at speed first hand. This can be organised in combination with a visit to see the collection and workshop situated in Denmark.
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