1930 Hispano Suiza H6C Bis Coupé de Ville Gallé
1930 Hispano-Suiza H6C Coupé de Ville
Coachwork by Gallé
Chassis No.: 12399
Year: 1930
Vehicle Overview
An exquisite example of pre-war luxury and engineering brilliance, this 1930 Hispano-Suiza H6C Coupé de Ville is a true work of art by the renowned French coachbuilder Gallé. Delivered new to a key figure in Hispano-Suiza’s history, this model remains in original condition and is regarded by experts as one of the finest driving examples of its kind.
Vehicle Details
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Make: Hispano-Suiza
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Model: H6C
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Year: 1930
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Coachbuilder: Gallé
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Body Style: Coupé de Ville
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Chassis Number: 12399
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Engine: Straight-six, 8.0L (7,982cc)
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Engine Layout: Fixed-head, 7 main bearings
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Condition: Original
Historical Context
The Hispano-Suiza H6 line emerged as a sensation at the 1919 Paris Motor Show, praised for its aircraft-inspired engineering and cutting-edge design. Built with a light yet rigid four-wheel-braked chassis and cast aluminium engine block, it offered a balance of speed, luxury, and safety unheard of at the time.
The H6C represented the pinnacle of this evolution. With its enlarged 8.0-litre engine—bored out to 110mm at the request of André Dubonnet, racing driver and heir to the Dubonnet aperitif fortune—it provided significantly improved power and torque over its predecessors. This engineering excellence placed Hispano-Suiza among the elite, rivaling Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Bugatti, and Isotta Fraschini.
Coachwork by Gallé
The elegant body of this 1930 example, chassis #12399, was crafted by the renowned Gallé atelier. Known for refined and sophisticated styling, Gallé’s designs are now considered masterpieces of automotive sculpture. This particular body showcases period-correct detailing with elegant proportions, subtly luxurious appointments, and a commanding presence.
Provenance & Originality
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Delivered directly from the Hispano-Suiza factory to Miguel Mateu, financier and son of the company’s Spanish founder
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Known for having many unique components not shared with standard H-series cars
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Reportedly once associated with Charles Howard, this car is described as driving better than most Rolls-Royce Phantom J12s
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Remains in original condition, a rare and invaluable trait in today’s collector market
Collector's Note
A Hispano-Suiza H6C with Gallé coachwork and direct historical ties to the marque’s leadership is an opportunity not to be missed. Few cars reflect the innovation, exclusivity, and artistry of early 20th-century European motoring better than this example.