Description
The Delahaye 135 M Coupé by Henri Chapron with a 95 horsepower engine is a distinguished example of French luxury and craftsmanship from the mid-20th century. It combined refined styling with a capable touring chassis, offering an ideal balance between performance, elegance, and comfort.
Introduced in the late 1930s and continuing production into the post-war years, the 135 M was a development of the original Delahaye 135. The “M” stood for Modifiée, referring to mechanical improvements and greater tuning potential. While the top-tier 135 MS could produce up to 160 horsepower, this particular version with 95 horsepower was more aligned with comfortable long-distance travel than outright competition. It typically used a single-carburettor version of the 3.6-litre inline six-cylinder engine, coupled with either a manual gearbox or the advanced Cotal electromagnetic pre-selector transmission.
Henri Chapron’s approach to coachbuilding was defined by restraint and classical harmony. Unlike some of his contemporaries who embraced dramatic, flowing lines, Chapron favored clean, balanced proportions and subtle ornamentation. His 135 M coupés often featured a gently sloped roofline, sweeping fenders, and carefully sculpted side panels. The silhouette was both dignified and fluid, conveying motion without exaggeration.
The front of the car was dominated by a stately chrome grille, often flanked by large, teardrop-shaped headlamps and accented with narrow bumpers. The rear of the car typically tapered into a short deck with a modest overhang, reflecting both aerodynamic sensibilities and a compact, tailored design. Chrome detailing was modest but precisely applied, often outlining the windows, fenders, and running boards.
The interior of the Chapron coupé was every bit as refined as its exterior. Upholstery was crafted from the finest leathers, often color-matched to the exterior paint scheme or contrasting in soft, period-correct tones. The dashboard was finished in polished wood or painted metal and featured elegant dials and switches. Seating was designed for comfort on long journeys, with generous padding and attention to driving posture.
Though not designed for racing like some of the more powerful Delahaye variants, the 135 M with 95 HP was still a capable performer. It offered smooth acceleration, excellent road manners, and a composed ride at high cruising speeds. The independent front suspension and live rear axle provided a refined driving experience well-suited to France’s expanding road network of the time.
Each Chapron-bodied coupé was built by hand and often to order, meaning that individual examples could vary in detail and trim. This custom nature adds to the appeal today, as each surviving car has its own unique personality and history. The scarcity of these cars, combined with the enduring reputation of both Delahaye and Chapron, ensures their continued value and status among collectors.
The Delahaye 135 M Coupé by Chapron with 95 HP represents the quieter, more sophisticated side of French grand touring in the mid-century era. It was a car for those who appreciated subtle elegance, technical refinement, and the enduring charm of hand-built artistry. Today, it remains a prized artifact of French automotive heritage.