Description
The Delahaye 235 MS Cabriolet by Chapron is a distinguished example of postwar French luxury, embodying the final flourish of hand-built elegance before Delahaye’s decline. Introduced in 1951 and produced until 1954, the 235 series marked the last model line from Delahaye, and the cabriolet version by Henri Chapron is among the most refined and desirable interpretations of this platform.
Based on the mechanical underpinnings of the legendary Delahaye 135 MS, the 235 MS retained the marque’s traditional values of smooth power, balanced handling, and luxurious presentation. The car was powered by a 3.5-liter inline-six engine, capable of producing around 150 horsepower, depending on carburation. This was sufficient for confident performance on long-distance routes, with top speeds approaching 170 km/h. The drivetrain often included the sophisticated Cotal pre-selector gearbox, known for its clutchless operation and ease of use.
The Chapron cabriolet body combined restrained elegance with timeless proportions. It featured long, flowing fenders, a gently rounded rear end, and a well-proportioned front grille, complemented by delicate chrome trim and elegant lighting arrangements. The cabriolet roof was manually operated and folded neatly behind the rear seats, revealing a beautifully trimmed interior beneath.
Inside, the 235 MS Cabriolet was an intimate space, lined with fine materials such as hand-stitched leather, polished wood veneers, and bespoke instrument panels. While it was a 2+2 configuration, the rear seats were modest, primarily suited for occasional use or additional luggage. Each example was individually finished to the buyer’s preferences, with many subtle variations in trim and detailing.
Production numbers for the 235 MS Cabriolet were extremely limited. Out of fewer than 85 Delahaye 235s built, only a small number were bodied as cabriolets by Chapron, making surviving examples very rare. Each car was a statement piece, crafted with artisanal care at a time when the automotive industry was moving swiftly toward mass production.
The Delahaye 235 MS Cabriolet Chapron stands as a poignant final chapter in the story of French coachbuilt luxury. It represents the end of an era defined by craftsmanship, elegance, and the close collaboration between automaker and coachbuilder. Today, these cars are prized not only for their rarity but for their role as the last true expression of the Delahaye spirit.