SOChassis n° 46137
In the first coaches made by Chapron
Old restoration - Coupe des Alpes 18hp 3 carburettor 3,2l engine
French registration

In the mid-1930s, any car that wanted to be fashionable had to be aerodynamic and each manufacturer had his own vision.
Delahaye is a mythical name in French car history, because unlike the many popular manufacturers that flourished at that time, it specialised in luxury cars on the one hand, and heavy commercial vehicles on the other. At the time, we can already speak of prestige vehicles, because Delahaye's strength was to offer vehicles that were as luxurious as they were powerful. The company managed to capture the market of Bugatti, Rolls Royce and Delage, in particular through the purchase of the sports car manufacturer in 1935. The strategy was a bold one: rather than adapting to the high demand for popular cars in these times of crisis, Delahaye preferred to specialise in prestigious vehicles that were then reserved for the elite. The brand became famous thanks to the 135, which was to become the French symbol of luxury and sportiness for a whole generation, as it was to be available in many different body styles during its long career (1935-1952). The 135s are still referred to as masterpieces, both in terms of their lines and the quality of the materials used. The brand manufactured many rolling chassis for renowned coachbuilders. Customers did not hesitate to create unique models representing the excesses and insolence of the luxury of the time, inspired by the American aesthetic. But Franay, Antem, Guilloré, Chapron, Letourneur and Dubos remained faithful to the principles of classic post-war European style and signed the most successful DELAHAYE designs.
The car offered for sale today has belonged to the same owner for over 30 years.
He bought it from a certain Mr Robert, near Dourdan. It was entirely restored by him. It is one of the first coach models made by Chapron. The 6 cylinder, 3 carburettor 3.2 litre engine runs perfectly.
The luxurious interior with its burr walnut dashboard takes us back to the 1930's and the Jaeger instrumentation is a delight for the eyes. The car is equipped with the Cotal gearbox, whose case alone is a splendid piece of workmanship. The beige leather upholstery shows a very slight patina, which goes divinely with the rest of the car.
We would like to thank the President of the Delahaye Club, Jean Paul Tissot, for his kindness, his availability and his help concerning the history of this car.