Description
The Delahaye 135 M Figoni & Falaschi Cabriolet is widely considered one of the most elegant and refined open grand tourers of the pre-war and immediate post-war period. It combined the mechanical sophistication of Delahaye’s 135 M chassis with the flamboyant, curvaceous artistry of Figoni & Falaschi’s French coachbuilding mastery. The result was a cabriolet that was not only luxurious and fast but also among the most visually captivating cars of its time.
Delahaye’s 135 M was introduced in the mid-1930s as an upgrade to the original Type 135. The “M” stood for Modifiée, reflecting improvements such as higher output from the 3.2-litre or 3.6-litre inline six-cylinder engine. With triple carburettors, the 135 M could produce up to 130 horsepower. Combined with the car’s relatively light weight, it offered brisk performance for a grand tourer, with top speeds nearing 100 mph (160 km/h). A Cotal pre-selector gearbox was commonly fitted, providing smooth and near-instantaneous shifts—a sophisticated feature for the era.
The Figoni & Falaschi cabriolet bodies built on the 135 M chassis are among the most admired examples of custom automotive design. These cars were not mass-produced but created to order, tailored to wealthy clients who desired performance, comfort, and distinction. Figoni’s cabriolet designs featured graceful curves, long flowing fenders, tapered tails, and elegantly integrated chrome accents. Often, they included dramatic two-tone paint schemes and meticulously fitted convertible tops that stowed neatly to preserve the body’s sweeping silhouette when open.
The interiors were finished to the highest standards, with custom leather upholstery, finely polished wood trim, and unique dashboard layouts. Comfort and luxury were paramount, with ample space for driver and passenger in a cabin designed as much for style as for function. The craftsmanship extended to every detail, including custom door handles, instrument bezels, and folding roof mechanisms.
Performance, though not on the level of full competition cars, was more than adequate for fast touring. The 135 M had independent front suspension, cable-operated drum brakes, and a strong chassis that balanced comfort with solid road-holding. These cabriolets were capable of long-distance motoring across Europe, and many were seen at prestigious concours events before and after World War II.
Some 135 M Figoni & Falaschi cabriolets were built on shortened or competition-type chassis, blurring the line between grand tourer and sports car. While others were intended primarily for show, often featuring extravagant details such as pontoon fenders, spats over the rear wheels, or even polished aluminum trim shaped like ribbons and flames.
Today, surviving examples of the 135 M Figoni & Falaschi Cabriolet are regarded as masterpieces. They are frequently featured in high-end classic car auctions, museums, and concours d’elegance competitions. Their value has continued to rise, both for their rarity and their unique blend of artistry and engineering. Whether driven along the Côte d’Azur or displayed under the spotlight of Pebble Beach, these cars remain among the most exquisite representations of the French luxury motoring tradition.