Delahaye 135 S Competition Pourtout 1935-1939

Delahaye first cars were built in 1895 designed throughout by Emile Delahaye. Emile Delahaye became racing driver and took part in some of the great town-to-town events. Delahaye's main business was commercial vehicles and fire engines with a reputation to be robust and reliable. A few cars were also produced; In 1934, Delahayes management decided for a drastic change and launched the 135 model line. A six cylinder engined chassis was proposed with engine capacity of 3. 557 cc. The purpose of the 135 was to change the image of the company and enter the market of prestigious saloon and sporst cars. Some of the most famous coachbuilders, like Chapron or Figoni & Falashi, have provided some "classic" cars.

In 1935 a racing version, the 135S, was prepared with three carburetors in place of the single one. The power output was raised from 90 hp to 155 hp. Special lightweight bodies were prepared in particular by coachbuilder Pourtout. The Delahaye was entered in several important racing events in view of creating a new reputation for the company. A first participation to the 1935 24 hours of Le Mans was concluded by a second place in the 4000 cc Class. Delahaye also participated to the Rally of Monte Carlo and the Mille Miglia. In 1937, Delahaye finished second and third at the 24 Hours of Le Mans behind the winning streamlined Bugatti Type 57. In 1938, Delahaye finished first and second in the 24 hours of Le Mans. The car illustrated here is the one that finished second at Le Mans in 1938. It was recently presented at the 2008 Classic Le Mans.

Wallpapers of Delahaye 135 S Pourtout LM 1938