An Icon of French Automotive Elegance

The Delahaye 135MS is a masterpiece of French engineering and design, blending performance, elegance, and craftsmanship. Introduced as a top-of-the-line sports and luxury model, the 135MS (Modifiée Spéciale) quickly became an icon of pre-war and post-war motoring.

This particular example, with coachwork by the legendary Henri Chapron, remains a highly desirable collector’s piece, embodying the very best of Delahaye’s racing heritage and luxury craftsmanship.

Delahaye: A Legacy of Performance and Style

Founded in 1884 by Émile Delahaye in Tours, France, Delahaye initially experimented with belt-driven vehicles before earning a reputation for building powerful and reliable automobiles.

The Delahaye 135 made its debut at the 1935 Paris Motor Show and quickly gained a reputation for sporting elegance. With its advanced chassis and performance-oriented engineering, it excelled both on the road and the track, securing victories in prestigious races, including:

Grand Prix Automobile de Marseille
24 Hours of Le Mans

The 135MS: A Top-Tier Model with Racing DNA

Introduced in 1938, the 135MS (Modifiée Spéciale) was a high-performance evolution of the Delahaye 135 series, featuring:

3.5-liter inline six-cylinder OHV engine
Three Zenith-Stromberg carburetors, producing approximately 160 BHP
Refined chassis and suspension, ensuring an exceptional driving experience

The 135MS was among the most prestigious French automobiles of its era, offering both exhilarating performance and exquisite styling.

Coachwork by Henri Chapron

Chassis #800548 was personally ordered by Henri Chapron on February 6, 1947, specifically for display at the Salon de l’Automobile de Paris.

Body #6568, designed and built by Chapron’s Parisian atelier, showcases his signature blend of luxury and refinement
Finished in Egyptien Rouge (Egyptian Red), a stunning and distinctive hue
Complemented by a beige cloth roof and a rosewood dashboard, enhancing its luxurious appeal

Chapron, one of France’s most esteemed coachbuilders, was known for creating some of the finest custom bodies for Delahaye, Talbot-Lago, and other prestigious marques.

A True Symbol of French Automotive Excellence

This 1948 Delahaye 135MS Cabriolet by Henri Chapron is a magnificent example of post-war French automotive luxury, offering:

A combination of racing pedigree and grand touring elegance
An exquisitely crafted body by one of France’s most famous coachbuilders
A connection to the golden era of French automotive innovation

With its remarkable history, breathtaking design, and exceptional engineering, this Delahaye 135MS remains a highly sought-after classic, ready to grace concours events and elite collections worldwide.

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