115 bhp, 3,557 cc OHV inline six-cylinder engine, triple carburettors, Cotal electro-mechanical four-speed gearbox, independent front suspension with transverse leaf spring, live rear axle with quarter elliptic springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,950 mm (114")

• Only three caretakers from new

• Well-preserved older restoration; well-known to marque enthusiasts

• Shown and toured extensively

Launched at Paris in 1935, the Type 135 was described by a noted marque historian as “the keystone of the survival plan which Delahaye, one of France’s oldest car manufacturers, had drawn up to cope with the crisis-hit Thirties”. In fact, the very adaptable Type 135 chassis continued until 1954.

The 135 featured a new underslung chassis, and power was delivered by a 3,557 cc OHV ‘six’, as used in the earlier Type 138, which also provided independent front suspension. Competition success was strong, with the 135 sweeping the top six places at Marseilles in 1936 and taking second at Le Mans in 1937, followed by first, second and fourth there in 1938. Rally wins occurred at Monte Carlo in 1937 and 1939.

This Letourneur et Marchand-bodied example was built in 1950 and spent most of its life in France. We understand that the first French owner retained it for nearly 30 years, until he sold it on 24 October 1979 to Mr. Andre Acoulon from St. Maur de Fosse, Val de Marne, just outside of Paris. As per the plaque still mounted on the sill of 801348, it was restored in France by Atelier de Restoration Automobile, in Sorigny. The present owner, from Holland, acquired the car in 2003 and ever since, it has remained within his collection, still on its old French number plates. Very well-known by the Delahaye Club in France, the car has participated in many classic rallies and concours events, where it was very well received. A wonderful and well-maintained example of Delahaye’s signature model, it is accompanied by a large file of documents, including invoices, and is ready to be shown or enjoyed on tours and rallies.