This 1947 Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet is one of ten left hand drive models. The body style of this car was called 'Le Dandy' by the coachbuilder Henri Chapron; the name was later used for a custom body on the Citroën DS platform, unrelated to this car.
Looking inside reveals wonderful interior details which could only be found on a French Grand Routier. The pleated front seats with center armrest recall those on the great French express trains and the ribbed chrome bezels of the two major gauges command the dashboard with its beautifully formed chromed knobs and rich wood trim.
The first owner of this car is unknown. In 1959 J.H. Caperton of Louisville purchased this Delahaye from A.F. Loyens of The Netherlands. Mr. Caperton picked the car up in New York and drove it home to Kentucky. He had some restoration work done. It was sold to Earl Brown of Prospect, Kentucky. Louis Cardello of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania bought the 175S in late 1982 or early 1983. Next was noted collectors Al McEwan and Dick Hooper 1983. They sent the Delahaye for a full restoration. Charles H. Morse bought the car in 1996. He toured the car extensively and sold it to the current owners.
Design and Features
- Manufacturer: Delahaye, a prestigious French automobile manufacturer known for producing luxury cars and high-performance vehicles.
- Body Style: The Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet is a two-door convertible, featuring a stylish and aerodynamic design typical of French automotive design in the post-war era.
- Coachwork: The bodywork was likely crafted by a renowned coachbuilder, as was customary for Delahaye vehicles of this period, ensuring a bespoke and luxurious appearance.
- Chassis: Built on a robust chassis designed to provide stability and support for the car's bodywork, ensuring a comfortable ride.
- Bodywork: The body panels were likely made from steel, with some components possibly in aluminum, to balance weight and structural integrity.
- Interior: The interior of the Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet would have been meticulously appointed with luxurious materials such as fine leather upholstery, wood trim, and chrome accents, reflecting the car's premium status.
Performance
- Engine: Powered by Delahaye's inline-six engine, a configuration favored for its smoothness and torque delivery, suitable for both leisurely touring and spirited driving.
- Power Output: The specific power output can vary based on the engine configuration and tuning but would have provided ample power for a car of its class and era.
- Transmission: Equipped with a manual gearbox, typically offering four speeds to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.
- Driving Dynamics: Delahaye cars were known for their comfortable ride quality and stable handling characteristics, making them ideal for long-distance travel and leisurely drives.
Historical Significance and Legacy
- Post-War Luxury: Produced in the years following World War II, the Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet represents the revival of French automotive luxury and craftsmanship during a period of economic recovery and innovation.
- Limited Production: Like many luxury cars of its time, the Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet would have been produced in limited numbers, enhancing its exclusivity and collectibility.
- Coachbuilding Excellence: The collaboration between Delahaye and renowned coachbuilders ensured that each Cabriolet was unique, tailored to the preferences and tastes of its affluent clientele.
Notable Features
- Distinctive Design: The Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet featured elegant lines, a harmonious silhouette, and chrome accents that highlighted its luxurious and sophisticated appearance.
- Craftsmanship: French coachbuilders were renowned for their attention to detail and craftsmanship, creating interiors and exterior finishes that were both opulent and tasteful.
- Luxury Amenities: The interior would have boasted amenities such as adjustable seats, advanced instrumentation, and other accessories designed to enhance comfort and convenience.
You may purchase a print of the 1947 Delahaye 175 S Cabriolet in our dElegance 2019 online gallery.
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