Description
The Delahaye 135 M Coupé by Figoni & Falaschi stands as one of the most iconic and visually striking examples of pre-war French automotive art. Introduced in the late 1930s, the 135 M was a refined version of the already successful Delahaye 135, offering more power, improved driving characteristics, and an ideal foundation for custom-bodied luxury cars. When paired with the flamboyant and aerodynamic design language of Figoni & Falaschi, the result was an automobile that epitomized the height of Art Deco styling.
The 135 M, or Modifiée, featured an improved version of Delahaye’s inline six-cylinder engine. Buyers could opt for a 3.2-litre or 3.6-litre engine, depending on configuration, with one, two, or three carburettors. With triple Solex carburettors, the engine could deliver up to 130 horsepower. This allowed the car to reach speeds around 160 km/h (100 mph), offering genuine grand touring performance suitable for the finest roads in Europe.
The Figoni & Falaschi-bodied coupé was one of the most elegant expressions of French coachbuilding in the 1930s and early 1940s. Giuseppe Figoni, in collaboration with financier Ovidio Falaschi, had a distinct flair for crafting dramatic, flowing bodies that emphasized curves, movement, and aerodynamic purity. The 135 M Coupé was often shaped with sweeping fenders, low-slung bodies, and elongated tails, with details such as teardrop headlights, covered wheels, and subtly integrated grilles. Some versions featured the famous “goutte d’eau” or teardrop profile, while others leaned toward a more restrained and formal coupé silhouette.
Inside, the car was equally refined. The interior typically featured hand-finished wood trim, high-quality leather upholstery, and Art Deco instrumentation. Craftsmanship was meticulous, and each car was tailored to the client’s specifications, meaning that no two 135 M Coupés by Figoni & Falaschi were exactly alike. Many were built for wealthy clients, celebrities, or royalty, and were often shown at concours d’elegance events across Europe.
Mechanically, the 135 M benefitted from independent front suspension and robust braking systems, making it not just a beautiful car but also an enjoyable one to drive. The gearbox, typically a Cotal electromagnetic pre-selector, allowed for smooth and fast gear changes, a sophisticated touch that suited the refined nature of the car.
Although World War II brought an end to the golden age of French coachbuilding, the Delahaye 135 M Coupés built before and shortly after the war remain among the most desirable and celebrated classic cars in existence. They represent a unique blend of advanced engineering and sculptural beauty, standing as a testament to an era when cars were true objets d’art.
Today, surviving examples are highly coveted by collectors. Restored cars are frequently seen at the most prestigious automotive events worldwide, including the Pebble Beach Concours and Villa d’Este. Their value, both in cultural terms and on the collectors’ market, continues to grow as they embody a fusion of speed, elegance, and artistry that remains unmatched.