Delahaye 235 Coupe by Saoutchik: one of the most beautiful cars in history (18 photos)
Delahaye's latest luxury model, the Model 235, was introduced in 1952 and had an improved version of the famous chassis and engine of the Model 135, whose power has now been increased to 160 forces. Prior to the discontinuation of Delahaye production in 1954, it was released only 84 copies of this chassis.
It is worth noting that the most luxurious were the models created by at Carrosserie J. Saoutchik. One of those cars that you see in the photo, it was created in a fastback body with a curved rear window, consisting of three sections. Gorgeous flowing wing lines and elegant "notch" in the rear fenders, a tribute to the style of Pininfarina time, combined with mullionless windows and discreet use chrome create an exceptionally slim and glamorous four-seat coupe.
Southchik exhibited a coupe painted in Velasquez Gray with blue leather salon, literally the centerpiece of its stand at Paris Salon in 1952, and then again at a competition held in casino at Enghien-les-Bains on June 20, 1953, where he won the prize for the best design.
Nothing is known about the first owner, but the car was registered near the competition. Apparently, his bought immediately after its completion.
After a lull, people started talking about cars in 1979, when he was offered for sale in French Racing Blue. In 1984 he was acquired by a French driver, known for racing "24 Hours of Le Mans", who owned it for the next three years. By this time in the car installed a sliding sunroof believed to have been there initially.
The Delahaye was brought to the US in the late 80s and has been restored by the late Mike Fennel in his current rich eggplant hue with beige interior, which is important, it very closely matches its original form. Only the original bumpers have been removed and replaced by thin chrome imitations, which made it easier and possibly improved design.
In pristine condition, the car was presented at the competition of elegance in Pebble Beach in 1990, winning the award accordingly. Nowadays Delahaye is in private hands. The car also retained original chassis number tag.