1939 DELAHAYE 135MS GRAND SPORTS ROADSTER, 1939 Delahaye 135MS Grand Sport Roadster Coachwork by Figoni et Falaschi s/n 60158, motor No. 60158Dark Blue with Cognac Interior The combination of a Delahaye chassis and Figoni et Falaschi bodywork produced some of the most flamboyant, stunning, and beautiful cars ever constructed. Delahaye's sophisticated chassis and six cylinder motors saw considerable success on the Grand Prix circuit, and when wed with Figoni et Falaschi's streamlined bodywork, the results were nothing less than spectacular. This particular example employs the competition-type chassis, which includes the highest specification motor fitted to the 135. This motor displaces 3,557ccs and is set apart from lesser 135's by its larger bore and exhaust valves, in addition to triple Solex carburetors. The motor, in conjunction with the sleek one-off bodywork means that the car is claimed to be a genuine 110mph car, quite a feat in 1939. The car was originally sold in Paris, and after the war, it eventually passed through the Emmanuel Collection and the collection of Peter Agg. During his ownership, the car was featured in several magazines, and was also used on several international rallies. The current owner has also used it in rallies and also saw to the car's cosmetic and mechanical restoration.Today, the car's cosmetic condition remains excellent. The paint was done just a few years ago, and is a high quality job. At the time the repaint was done traces of the original burgundy were found on the back of the wood trim pieces. The only chip to speak of is on the trailing edge of the radiator moulding, no doubt from previous careless handling of the hood. The chrome ranges from very good to excellent, including the dramatic 'side spears'. The glass is all in fine shape, including the Bosch headlights and driving lights. The whitewall tires are in good shape and really add to the car's presence.The interior is also excellent. The color of the upholstery is extremely attractive, and sets off the dark blue carpeting very well. Both the leather and the carpeting are excellent. The door upholstery is very neatly detailed and is done in matching leather. The dashboard is a simple but elegant painted affair with full instrumentation, and all wood trim is in good shape. The interior is complete with a set of fitted side windows. The matching numbers motor has just been rebuilt by Jim Stokes in the UK. The engine and engine bay are clean and reflect the thoroughness and low mileage since restoration. There are a number of neat details, including an oil can holder, complete with a period metal Castrol oil can. There are also a few concessions to the car's event use, including an ignition coil and VDO plastic windscreen washer reservoir, which has been tastefully integrated.This car is unique in the most literal sense of the word. It is extraordinarily desirable not only as a one-off Figoni et Falaschi-bodied car.
