Marcel Pourtout based his 1949 Delahaye Malmaison Cabriolet on pre-war lines, namely in the high and long dramatic sweep of its front fenders. There were only about four to six examples ever made of which three are known to remain today. All were installed on the 135 M chassis with its optional 6 103S engine, a design equipped with three Solex carburetors for an output of 115 hp.
Under the hood is the original numbers matching Type 103S engine with the proper date code and triple carburetion correct to all examples of "Malmaison". It also has suicide doors with the door jams lined with polished aluminum.
Overall the car projects a quiet elegance without any of the over the top flamboyant chrome work found on many Delahayes or other post war cars of the period.
The restoration was completed in 2018. The car is dark aubergine with a violet interior, matching painted wire wheels and blackwall tires to replicate the car as originally delivered.
Design and Features
- Manufacturer: Delahaye, a prestigious French automobile manufacturer renowned for its luxury cars.
- Body Style: The Malmaison Cabriolet is a two-door convertible, featuring a luxurious and stylish design typical of French coachbuilding craftsmanship.
- Coachbuilder: The bodywork of the Malmaison Cabriolet was likely crafted by a renowned coachbuilder, as was customary for high-end Delahaye vehicles of the era.
- Chassis: Built on a robust chassis designed to support the car’s weight and provide a stable platform for driving.
- Bodywork: The body panels were likely made from steel, with aluminum used for some components to reduce weight and enhance performance.
- Interior: The interior of the Malmaison Cabriolet would have been luxuriously appointed, featuring fine leather upholstery, elegant wood trim, and high-quality instrumentation and controls.
Performance
- Engine: Powered by a robust inline-six engine, a configuration typical of Delahaye cars, renowned for their smoothness and torque.
- Power Output: Specific power output figures can vary depending on the engine configuration and tuning, but Delahaye engines of the time typically provided ample power for comfortable cruising.
- Transmission: Equipped with a manual gearbox, providing smooth gear changes and allowing the driver to make the most of the engine’s capabilities.
- Driving Dynamics: Delahaye cars were known for their comfortable ride quality and stable handling characteristics, suitable for long-distance touring and luxury driving.
Historical Significance and Legacy
- Post-War Elegance: Produced in the years following World War II, the Malmaison Cabriolet exemplifies the elegance and sophistication of French automotive design during the mid-20th century.
- Limited Production: Like many luxury cars of its time, the Malmaison Cabriolet would have been produced in limited numbers, making it a rare and sought-after collector's item today.
- Coachbuilding Excellence: The collaboration between Delahaye and renowned coachbuilders resulted in unique and bespoke vehicles tailored to the tastes and preferences of affluent clients.
Notable Features
- Distinctive Design: The Malmaison Cabriolet would have featured a design that combined classic pre-war styling elements with modern post-war sensibilities, creating a timeless appearance.
- Craftsmanship: French coachbuilders were known for their meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, creating interiors and exterior finishes that were both luxurious and tasteful.
- Luxury Amenities: The interior of the Malmaison Cabriolet would likely have featured amenities such as power windows, adjustable seats, and advanced instrumentation for the era.
You may purchase a print of this 1949 Delahaye Malmaison Cabriolet in our dElegance 2019 online gallery.