Description
The Delahaye 135 MS Roadster by Henri Chapron is a refined and powerful example of pre-war French automotive excellence. Marrying the mechanical sophistication of the Delahaye 135 MS with the tasteful, elegant design of coachbuilder Henri Chapron, the roadster stands as a testament to the grace and innovation of luxury motoring in the 1930s and 1940s.
The 135 MS—or Modifiée Spéciale—represented the highest performance version of the Delahaye 135 series. It was powered by a 3.6-litre inline six-cylinder engine that, when equipped with triple carburettors, could deliver up to 160 horsepower. This powerplant was mated to a Cotal electromagnetic pre-selector gearbox, allowing for rapid and smooth shifts with minimal effort, ideal for both city driving and grand touring. The suspension used an independent front setup with a solid rear axle, providing a comfortable ride while retaining responsive handling.
Henri Chapron, based in Levallois-Perret near Paris, was known for his more understated and formal aesthetic compared to the flamboyant styling of Figoni & Falaschi. While still elegant, his designs focused on harmony, proportion, and subtle luxury. The 135 MS Roadster by Chapron carried these hallmarks into a sleek, open-top configuration that prioritized driver engagement and passenger comfort without sacrificing visual refinement.
The roadster body was characterized by a long bonnet, sweeping front fenders, and a low, tapering rear deck. The absence of a roof structure allowed for clean, uninterrupted lines, while the doors were often slightly cut down to enhance the sporting look. Chapron’s craftsmanship was evident in the fit and finish of every panel, the curvature of the fenders, and the precision of the detailing around the lights, grille, and trim. Chrome accents were used sparingly and tastefully, often highlighting the contours of the car rather than overwhelming them.
Inside, the roadster was a blend of sport and luxury. High-grade leather seats, hand-finished wood trim, and elegantly designed gauges adorned the interior. The cockpit was typically compact, with a driver-focused layout that enhanced the sense of engagement. Chapron ensured that the experience of driving or riding in the roadster was as luxurious as it was thrilling.
Unlike the more flamboyant Figoni-bodied 135s, Chapron’s roadsters were generally built in very limited numbers, often to individual customer specifications. This rarity, combined with their mechanical prowess and timeless design, makes them highly sought after among collectors today. Each example reflects a slightly different vision, but all share the underlying quality and elegance that defined Chapron’s work.
The Delahaye 135 MS Roadster by Chapron is today considered one of the finest examples of French custom coachbuilding from the pre- and post-war period. It represents a perfect balance between performance and luxury, exuberance and restraint, making it a lasting icon of automotive artistry. Whether shown on the concours lawn or exercised on open roads, it remains a compelling embodiment of Delahaye’s and Chapron’s shared dedication to excellence.