1950' Delahaye 135 M Cabriolet Estérel

For sale by auction 13 September 2020 - Collection André Trigano by Artcurial Motorcars

French title
Chassis No 801365
Engine No 801365

- Prestigious model, rare and elegant bodywork
- Restored example
- In the collection for over 40 years
- No reserve

"I bought this car around forty years ago and drove it a lot at a time when I was competing in various rallies, which was very satisfying " explained Andre Trigano. The stature of this car also earned its way at many weddings, including that of Toulouse rugby player Fabien Pelous: captain of the French national rugby team in 2003, he contributed to a record-breaking four "grand slams" for the French team. His father worked for Andre Trigano.
This car is particularly interesting, as it is a cabriolet special edition by Guilloré under the flattering name "Esterel", with very few units produced. An identical example took part at the Enghien-les-Bains concours d'elegance in June 1948, presented by Miss Reach and Prince Troubetzkoy, as pointed out by Jean-Paul Tissot in his Delahaye book. This model has a particularly elegant design with its wave-shaped front wings and rear-tyre covers integrated into a tapered stern. The bumpers are not original, the belt and underseal rods are missing, but the very special door handles are original. Inside, the upholstery has been redone in beige leather in order to keep its original presentation, along with separate front seats and a rear bench with armrests. The dashboard matches the level of finish for this car: speedometer and rev counter are in the middle, which enables the driver to take advantage of additional instruments on his right. On the left side of the streering wheel, a metal arm carries the lever which controls the Cotal electromagnetic gearbox, a system that makes the driving easier and makes it possible to avoid grinds during gear shifts.
Under the bonnet, the in-line 6-cylinder engine is powered by three Solex carburetors, appropriate for the "M" version of this Delahaye 135. This model was an extraordinary success for the brand. This low and elegant car, unveiled at the 1935 Paris Motor Show, came as an innovation with its very solid "Bloctube" chassis, independent front suspension from the 138 and the excellent engine also from the 138, made in two versions: 18hp (3.2 litres) or 20hp (3.5 litres) like this particular one. It achieved greatness in motor racing both on track (victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans) and in rally (victory at the Monte Carlo rally), but also at concours d'elegance events. Lending itself very well to the imagination of coachbuilders, this chassis has undoubtedly benefited from the greatest variety of bodywork ever made on the same model. Brilliant but less delicate than a Bugatti 57, the Delahaye 135 was appreciated by an affluent clientele looking for reliability.
The car we are offering is a dazzling example. In its elegant and yet sober bodywork, it will give its future owner the pleasure of an enjoyable drive, a convertible frame, a four-seater interior, an enviable brand and discreet luxury. A rare set of qualities worthy of enthusiasts' attention.


We inform buyers that all the vehicles in the collection have been little used during the last years as they are part of a museum collection. They are sold as presented and therefore require recommissioning before being driven on the public roads.

Estimate: 90 000 - 150 000 €

© Peter Singhof