The star of the show at 2012’s Marin Sonoma Concours, in California on 20 May, is likely to be this fantastic 1936 Delahaye 135 Competition.
The elegance-oozing Disappearing Top Convertible (chassis 46864) was a one-off from Joseph Figoni, who created the coachwork for his wealthy Parisian friend Mr Wolf. The car also features streamlined bodywork, a competition engine and chassis, folding windscreen and engine-turned dash.
Andre Vaucourt, archivist at Club Delahaye France said it was “one of the most elegant creations of Joseph Figoni and one of the most important Delahaye cars”.
Almost as breathtaking is this 1939 Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet (chassis 60744). It represented France at the 1939 New York World’s Fair in an exposition fittingly titled Dawn of a New Day. Built by Figoni et Falaschi, it was one of only six 12-cylinder 165s produced.
Concours chairman John Nirenstein said: “These cars represent a level of automobile you don't see at every concours. These are truly significant pieces of art with rich histories that are rarely seen outside of automotive museums. To have one of these automobiles present is significant for any concours, but to have several of them in one location that is not Pebble Beach or Villa d'Este is truly a unique and exciting opportunity for the public.”
