Description
The Delahaye 135 MS Cabriolet is one of the finest expressions of pre- and post-war French automotive artistry, blending sophisticated engineering with the elegance of hand-built coachwork. Known as the Modifiée Spéciale version of the Delahaye 135 series, the 135 MS was the highest-performance variant, introduced in the late 1930s and continuing production into the early 1950s. It became a popular choice for Europe’s leading coachbuilders, who used the chassis as a canvas for crafting some of the most stylish open cars of the era.
At the heart of the 135 MS Cabriolet was a 3.6-litre inline-six engine. Depending on the carburettor setup—typically two or three Solex or Stromberg units—the engine could produce between 120 and 145 horsepower. This gave the car strong performance for its class, particularly when paired with the advanced four-speed Cotal electromagnetic pre-selector gearbox, which allowed for smooth and swift gear changes without the use of a conventional clutch pedal.
The chassis itself was designed with both comfort and handling in mind. Featuring independent front suspension and a well-balanced rear axle, the 135 MS delivered a composed ride and capable cornering. Hydraulic brakes offered effective stopping power, and the car’s long wheelbase made it suitable for grand touring, whether cruising through the French countryside or navigating tight urban boulevards.
The cabriolet body style—featuring a folding soft-top roof—was interpreted in various ways by coachbuilders such as Figoni & Falaschi, Chapron, Saoutchik, Graber, and Pennock. Each built their version with unique character, but certain traits were common across the range. These included long flowing fenders, an elegantly sculpted grille, and carefully balanced proportions that made the car look poised and graceful whether the top was up or down.
Inside, the Delahaye 135 MS Cabriolet typically featured a luxurious interior tailored to the customer’s preferences. High-quality leather seats, polished wood dashboards, and intricate instrumentation came as standard. Most cars had seating for two or four occupants, depending on the configuration, and even the smallest details were treated with craftsmanship—such as chrome trim, bespoke steering wheels, and manually operated convertible tops with precise fit and finish.
Driving a 135 MS Cabriolet was a refined yet invigorating experience. The engine delivered smooth power across the rev range, while the chassis and suspension absorbed road imperfections with composure. The gearbox, although unconventional by modern standards, offered one of the most advanced driving experiences of its time. This balance of style and performance made it a favorite among the elite, from racing drivers to aristocrats.
Today, the Delahaye 135 MS Cabriolet is celebrated as one of the most iconic prewar and immediate postwar French automobiles. It represents a golden era when cars were not just transportation but rolling works of art—each built with passion, precision, and individuality. Surviving examples are highly prized by collectors and regularly appear at the world’s most prestigious concours events.