1948 Delahaye Type 135M Three-Position Drophead Coupé

Footnotes

Following WW2, the concours-winning firm of Pennock created this outstanding - and very rare - three-position drophead coupé on the Delahaye 135M chassis. Right-hand drive, like most quality French cars of the period, this matching-numbers 135M benefits from a body-off, 'last nut and bolt' restoration undertaken by its former owner - a wealthy German industrialist - some 15 years ago at a cost of £200,000. It is understood that the car had had only one previous owner.

The Delahaye then formed part of the German owner's private collection for 10 years before arriving in the UK in 2017 when it was sold to an Englishman, who UK-registered the car and used it sparingly on 'high days and holidays'. Last year the car was fully serviced and fitted with a set of new tyres, while in April 2021 it was serviced again and MoT tested, the underside being videoed as its immaculate condition was admired.

Said to drive beautifully, this magnificent French thoroughbred is finished in two-tone dark red/plum with fine coachlines separating the two colours, while the interior is upholstered in beige hide with dark red carpets. The fully lined hood is trimmed in beige West of England cloth. Photographs of the restoration, including the engine rebuild, are on file together with the MoT certificate; original handbook; and the UK V5C document recording only one owner in this country.

Vendor Score Total: 80 /100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well