Description

The Delahaye 148 L Berline was a stately and refined model produced by the French automaker Delahaye in the late 1930s and into the 1940s. It was developed as a more spacious and comfortable variant of the company’s prestigious range of automobiles, intended to meet the needs of clients who desired elegance and luxury with greater passenger accommodation. The “L” in its designation stood for longue (long), referencing its extended wheelbase which allowed for generous interior space, particularly in the rear cabin.

Under the hood, the 148 L typically housed a 3.6-litre inline-six engine, derived from the same block used in the more performance-oriented Delahaye 135 series. While the engine in the 148 L was tuned more for smoothness and durability than for outright performance, it still delivered a respectable level of power and was well-suited to relaxed long-distance motoring. In most configurations, it was coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox or the optional Cotal pre-selector transmission, which was favored for its effortless operation and smooth shifting.

The Berline body style—Delahaye’s term for a sedan or saloon—was often created by leading French coachbuilders such as Letourneur & Marchand, Chapron, or Guilloré. These coachbuilders brought unique flair to each example, with variations in fender lines, roof contours, and trim details. The general shape was elegant and formal, with a high roofline, a tall upright grille, and four doors providing easy access to a spacious and finely trimmed interior.

Inside, the 148 L Berline emphasized luxury and comfort. Materials included rich wood veneers, high-quality leathers, and mohair carpeting. The dashboard was designed with symmetry and clarity in mind, and the seating provided comfort for long hours of travel. Rear passengers, in particular, enjoyed ample legroom, and some versions even featured folding occasional seats or privacy partitions, making the car suitable for chauffeur-driven use.

The chassis was constructed for stability and ride comfort, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle. Hydraulic brakes were fitted to all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for a vehicle of its size and weight. Though not a sports car, the 148 L still handled competently, reflecting Delahaye’s emphasis on engineering excellence even in their more conservative models.

The 148 L was often used by government officials, dignitaries, and prominent businesspeople, particularly in the years before and after World War II. Its dignified appearance and smooth, quiet ride made it well-suited to both formal and private use.

Surviving examples of the Delahaye 148 L Berline are relatively rare today, especially those with original coachwork and mechanicals intact. As with many of Delahaye’s large sedans, they tend to be overshadowed by the more flamboyant and sporty 135 series coupés and cabriolets, but they offer a distinct and elegant charm of their own. For collectors who appreciate understated luxury and the craftsmanship of the French coachbuilding tradition, the 148 L Berline remains a notable and graceful classic.