Delahaye 135 M Cabriolet “Malmaison” 1948 - #800997 - Pourtout Coachwork - Superb Condition - Known History

This Delahaye 135 M left the workshops of Marcel Pourtout in Rueil-Malmaison in 1948. It is a very fine and rare example of the early post-war Delahayes, blending classic styling with the emerging “full ponton” design.

Our chassis #800997 was built to be displayed at the 1948 Paris Motor Show under the name “Malmaison.” The vertical grille was a creation by Philippe Charbonneaux, who had been approved by the brand for his designs from 1946 onward, but reinterpreted by the coachbuilder.

This car took part in numerous period concours d’élégance, including Enghien-les-Bains in June 1949 and the Grande Cascade at the Bois de Boulogne. It is also known that in 1952, registered 1548 C 75, it belonged to the Marquis de Cuevas, the famous choreographer and ballet company director, and later to several French owners including the Comte de Ribot in 1954 (461 BW 06), Mr. Louis de Poitevin de Fontignac in 1957 (851 CM 16), Mr. Beauvais in 1970 (613 LC 86), Mr. Vernhes in 1982 (3429 KM 32), and in 1983 Mr. Ramos (1943 JP 33), before being exported to the United States following a restoration (bodywork, paint, upholstery) carried out by Atelier Automobiles Anciennes in Chambray-lès-Tours in 1988/1989.

A letter from Claude Pourtout (son of coachbuilder Marcel Pourtout), who supervised the restoration, authenticates the car as a creation from his father’s workshops.

Sold at auction in New York in October 1989, the car was displayed in two US museums before being purchased by the current owner over 10 years ago.

The car retains its original engine #800997 & type 103 6S with three carburetors, along with a Cotal gearbox. The entire drivetrain has been serviced for the sale and runs well.

Finished in blood red with a white dashboard and white leather upholstery, it is equipped with optional chrome wire wheels with central locking (available on the 135 M). The car still carries a US title but has been cleared through European customs.

It belongs to a renowned French collector who has had the car serviced for the sale. It will require no additional expenses from its future owner.

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The details and information in this listing are based on the seller’s statements and are his sole responsibility.

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Internal reference: AO19321