Delahaye, a marque that initially offered rather ordinary automobiles, experienced a transformative moment in 1935 with the introduction of the T135 Coupe Des Alpes. This pivotal model marked the beginning of a new era for Delahaye, setting the stage for the brand’s redefinition and ascent to prominence in the automotive world. The T135 emerged as a distinguished sports car, propelled by an engine initially developed for commercial Delahaye vehicles but adapted for high-performance use in this new application.
At the heart of the T135 was a robust 3.2-liter, six-cylinder, overhead-valve engine, a testament to Delahaye’s engineering prowess. Equipped with triple Solex carburetors, this powerplant delivered an impressive output of 110 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance on the road.
Complementing the potent engine was a meticulously crafted chassis featuring transverse-leaf independent front suspension, a choice of either a four-speed synchromesh or Cotal gearbox, center-lock wire wheels, and Bendix brakes, ensuring superb handling and control. This engineering prowess made the Delahaye 135M admired for its road and track performance.
Buoyed by the success of the T135 Coupe Des Alpes, Delahaye further refined the formula in subsequent years with the introduction of the 3.6-liter T135MS. This enhanced sports version elevated the T135’s performance to new heights, generating between 120 to 130 horsepower.
The T135MS quickly made a name for itself in motorsport competitions, achieving notable results such as securing positions in the 1936 French Grand Prix and clinching outright victories in prestigious events like the Monte Carlo Rally and the Le Mans 24-Hour Race in 1937 and 1938, respectively.
Despite the disruptions caused by World War II, Delahaye’s legacy endured, with the model resurfacing after the conflict as the 135M. Retaining the enduring 3.6-liter engine, the 135M remained in production until 1951, showcasing Delahaye’s resilience and commitment to excellence in the face of adversity.
However, during this period, the brand faced significant financial challenges due to the French government’s taxation policies, which penalized cars with engine displacements exceeding 3.0 liters. Despite these hurdles, Delahaye’s dedication to craftsmanship and performance ensured the 135M’s continued popularity among enthusiasts seeking elegance and power in their automobiles.
In 1954, Delahaye’s acquisition by Hotchkiss marked a new chapter in its history. Despite lacking in-house coachworks, Delahaye collaborated with renowned independent designers like Saoutchik, Chapron, Franay, and others. Together, they crafted captivating designs on the Type 135 chassis, producing automotive masterpieces. These collaborations solidified Delahaye’s legacy as a marque of enduring beauty and innovation, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike.
