Description
The Delahaye 135 MS Cabriolet by Letourneur & Marchand is a quintessential example of French coachbuilding excellence paired with one of the most elegant and technically accomplished chassis of the pre- and post-war era. Letourneur & Marchand, based in Neuilly-sur-Seine near Paris, was a respected coachbuilder known for its refined and classically proportioned bodies. Their collaboration with Delahaye resulted in a number of beautifully crafted automobiles, including a selection of bespoke cabriolets built on the high-performance 135 MS chassis.
The 135 MS (Modifiée Spéciale) was the most advanced variant of the Delahaye 135 series. It featured a 3.6-litre inline-six engine, capable of producing between 120 and 145 horsepower depending on the carburettor setup—typically twin or triple carburettors. The powerplant was paired with a four-speed Cotal electromagnetic pre-selector gearbox, a sophisticated transmission that allowed seamless gear changes without a conventional clutch. This setup provided the driver with both comfort and control, making the car well-suited for spirited touring.
Letourneur & Marchand’s cabriolet design was marked by restrained elegance. Unlike the flamboyant lines of Figoni & Falaschi, their approach leaned toward conservative beauty. The body featured long, flowing fenders with subtle curves, a low-slung profile, and a gracefully integrated soft top that folded neatly behind the seats. The grille was slightly raked and flanked by large headlights mounted on aerodynamic supports. Chrome trim was used sparingly and tastefully to enhance the car’s natural proportions.
The interior of the Letourneur & Marchand cabriolet was built to the highest standards. It typically featured fine leather upholstery, walnut or mahogany wood trim, and a symmetrical dashboard with round Jaeger instruments. The cabin layout was simple but luxurious, with seating for two or four depending on the custom order. The convertible top mechanism was manual but smooth and well-engineered, allowing for open-air motoring when desired.
Performance-wise, the 135 MS chassis was one of the finest of its day. The combination of a lively engine, a well-tuned suspension system with independent front suspension, and strong hydraulic brakes made it one of the most capable grand tourers of the era. The ride was supple, the handling poised, and the acceleration impressive for such an elegant and substantial vehicle.
Only a small number of 135 MS Cabriolets were bodied by Letourneur & Marchand, making surviving examples rare and highly sought after by collectors. Each was individually tailored to the owner’s specifications, meaning no two were exactly alike. Their understated beauty and high level of craftsmanship have ensured their place among the most revered French classics.
Today, a Delahaye 135 MS Cabriolet by Letourneur & Marchand is considered a masterpiece of coachbuilding—an embodiment of the French tradition of elegant motoring. Whether viewed on the concours lawn or gliding down a winding road, it stands as a reminder of a time when engineering and artistry walked hand in hand.