The Figoni & Falaschi cabriolet body showcased on this Delahaye Type 135 chassis made its initial debut at the illustrious 1935 Paris Auto Salon, where it captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. Renowned for its exquisite design and craftsmanship, the cabriolet body quickly became one of the standout attractions of the show, earning accolades and admiration for its elegance and sophistication.
Following its successful debut, the cabriolet body continued to garner acclaim, making a subsequent appearance at the prestigious Concours d’Elegance de l’Auto in Paris the following year. Its graceful lines and timeless design ensured its status as a perennial favorite among connoisseurs of automotive artistry.
However, the fate of the original Delahaye chassis to which the Figoni & Falaschi cabriolet body was originally fitted took a twist in 1946 when it underwent a significant transformation. The body was refitted to a Bugatti Type 43 chassis (chassis number 43308) by its then-owner Monsieur Bouvet, marking a departure from its original configuration. Unfortunately, the original Delahaye chassis was lost in the process, forever altering the car’s historical provenance.
Subsequently, the Bugatti with the modified cabriolet body found its way into the hands of Lt. Col. Eric Richardson of California, where it remained for nearly four decades, adding to its storied history and provenance. However, its journey was far from over, as it eventually made its way across the Atlantic to England, where the cabriolet body was sold to a new owner.
Regrettably, the cabriolet body underwent incorrect modifications and modernizations under its new ownership, detracting from its original allure and splendor. However, fate intervened once more when the current owners acquired the Delahaye in 2000, recognizing its historical significance and potential for restoration.
Over the course of five years, the current owners embarked on an extensive restoration project, collaborating with a team of experts in Europe to meticulously research and identify the car’s original configuration and specifications. Through painstaking effort and dedication, the Delahaye was restored to its former glory, recapturing the elegance and charm that made it a standout attraction at the Paris Auto Salon and Concours d’Elegance de l’Auto.
Today, this impeccably restored Delahaye stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Figoni & Falaschi’s exquisite craftsmanship and the timeless allure of classic automobiles. With its rich history and meticulous restoration, it continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive elegance and sophistication.
