A gorgeous 1937 Delahaye 145 by Franay taken at the Amelia Island Conours.
In the 1930’s Hitler pumped millions of Deutsche Marks in Mercedes Benz and Auto Union. This was a propaganda effort to intimidate the world with German technological might. In 1937, the French government and the Automobile Club of France offered a 1,000,000 franc reward to the constructor and driver of any French car that could best the Germans at Monthlery. It ultimately came down to a competition between Delahaye and Bugatti. Delahaye, with the superb driving talents of Rene Dreyfus, was victorious. The following year, Dreyfus went on to win eight more races in the car, one of three newly engineered 12-cylinder model 145's. This race-car, now France's most famous, was hidden away during the war and eventually sold to a private client in 1945. The new owner ordered elegant coachwork from Marius Franay. However, before delivery, the car was seized and auctioned by the French government for crimes of collaboration. It was purchased by Franay and eventually sold to its first owner, rumored to have been Prince Ranier of Monaco.
Design and Features
- Manufacturer: Delahaye, a French luxury automobile manufacturer.
- Body Style: The Delahaye 145 is typically known for its racing versions, featuring sleek aerodynamic bodies with a long hood and a distinctive grille.
- Coachbuilder: Carrosserie Franay, a prestigious French coachbuilder known for crafting bespoke bodies for luxury cars.
- Chassis: The Delahaye 145 chassis was designed with racing in mind, focusing on lightweight construction and rigidity.
- Interior: Custom interiors by Franay would have featured luxurious materials such as fine leather, wood trim, and bespoke details tailored to the owner's preferences.
Performance
- Engine: Powered by a potent V12 engine, specifically designed for racing applications.
- Power Output: Approximately 230 to 350 horsepower, depending on the specific racing configuration and engine tuning.
- Transmission: Equipped with a 4-speed manual gearbox, optimized for racing conditions.
- Top Speed: Capable of reaching speeds exceeding 150 mph (240 km/h), impressive for its era and suitable for competitive racing.
- Suspension: Advanced for its time, featuring independent front suspension with coil springs and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, providing a balance of handling and stability.
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes, standard for racing cars of the period, offering effective stopping power.
Racing Success and Legacy
- Competition History: The Delahaye 145 achieved notable success in motorsport, including victories at prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and other endurance races.
- Significance: It was celebrated for its advanced engineering and aerodynamic design, setting new standards in racing car performance during the late 1930s.
- Influence: The Delahaye 145's success and technological advancements influenced subsequent racing cars and cemented Delahaye's reputation as a formidable competitor in motorsport.
Production and Rarity
- Production Years: Produced in limited numbers from 1937 to 1939, with only a few racing versions built.
- Total Units Produced: Extremely limited, with each car being a bespoke creation tailored to the owner's specifications.
- Price: Today, surviving examples of the Delahaye 145 by Franay are highly sought after by collectors, commanding significant prices at auctions due to their rarity, historical significance, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Notable Features
- Streamlined Design: The Delahaye 145's aerodynamic bodywork by Franay featured flowing lines, integrated fenders, and a purposeful stance, reflecting the pinnacle of pre-war automotive design.
- High-Performance Engine: The V12 engine was a masterpiece of engineering, providing exceptional power and reliability for racing at the highest levels.
- Exclusive Craftsmanship: Franay's bespoke coachwork ensured that each Delahaye 145 was a unique work of automotive art, tailored to the tastes and requirements of affluent clients.
You may purchase a print of the 1937 Delahaye 145 by Franay in our dElegance 2017 online gallery.
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