Description

The Delahaye 175 Cabriolet by Henri Chapron is a superb example of post-war French automotive luxury and craftsmanship. Built in the late 1940s and early 1950s, the Delahaye 175 was one of the flagship models of the marque, created to reestablish France’s prominence in high-end car manufacturing after World War II. As a grand touring car, the 175 was designed with both performance and elegance in mind, and when paired with coachwork by Chapron, it became a symbol of prestige and refinement.

The chassis of the Delahaye 175 was substantial, featuring a long wheelbase and a robust frame suitable for luxurious custom bodies. It was powered by a 4.5-litre inline-six engine with overhead valves, producing around 140 horsepower. This engine, paired with a four-speed Cotal electromagnetic pre-selector gearbox, gave the car smooth acceleration and a top speed in the region of 160 km/h (100 mph). The suspension system included independent front suspension and a live rear axle, providing a comfortable yet capable ride.

Henri Chapron, one of France’s most celebrated coachbuilders, was responsible for designing and building the Cabriolet bodywork for a number of Delahaye 175s. Each Cabriolet was hand-built and often tailored to the specific tastes of its buyer. Chapron’s style for the 175 Cabriolet was marked by flowing fenders, a graceful beltline, and finely balanced proportions. The folding soft-top was crafted with precision, allowing the car to retain its elegance whether the top was up or down.

The interior of the 175 Cabriolet was appointed with the finest materials available at the time. Seats were upholstered in top-grade leather, and the dashboard was finished with polished wood and chrome accents. Instrumentation was clear and stylish, and features like power windows or a radio were occasionally included, depending on the client’s specifications. The driving position was comfortable and gave the driver a commanding view of the long, sculpted bonnet.

Driving the Delahaye 175 Cabriolet was an experience rooted in quiet power and refined control. The engine delivered its power smoothly across the rev range, and the pre-selector gearbox allowed for clutchless gear changes, adding to the feeling of effortless motoring. The car was particularly admired for its combination of mechanical sophistication and visual grandeur.

Only a small number of Delahaye 175 chassis received Chapron cabriolet bodies, making them rare and highly desirable today. Many were built for wealthy private clients or shown at international concours events, where their style and quality were immediately appreciated. Today, surviving examples are treasured by collectors and often appear at concours d’elegance around the world, where they continue to represent the golden era of custom French luxury automobiles.