A pre-war in post-war clothing?

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In 1951, the Delahaye Type 235 was introduced at the Paris Auto Salon. It was, in fact, an updated version of Type 135 – a pre-war model. The Type 135 had a 3.2-litre ohv straight 6-cylinder engine with independent front suspension, Bendix brakes, and synchromesh or a Cotal gearbox. After its success in the Alpine Rally, the Type 135 was also known as “Coupe des Alpes”. This 3.2-litre sports car had 110bhp. Especially the type 135 S, M and MS were very successful sports cars during various prestigious international races and rallies, among them the Monte Carlo Rally in 1937 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1938. With the outbreak of the war, the production of the 3.2-litre sports car in 1940 came to an end.

After the war the company needed revitalization and they hoped that the 235 would do it. The typical 1950`s style - the wide body with new broad grille - came from the hand of designer Philippe Charbonneaux. Originally also this model was sold in chassis only form and from the wide range of coachbuilders, a suitable body could be chosen. Fernand Lacour was the man responsible for the mechanics and the production started in 1951. They upgraded the 235 to a 6cylinder 3.5-litre engine with three downdraught Solex carbs which now developed 152 bhp.

The 1953 Delahaye 235 by Antem we see here was a participant in the 1953 Rallye Monte Carlo driven by Roger Crovetto and Julio Quinlin. After the rally, the car was recommissioned and purchased by the American sculptor, Mr. La Haye. He took it back to the USA and used it for some time, but then put it in the garage...

Until two months ago almost no one knew the car existed and even the Delahaye club did not know the car survived. The Delahaye by Antem was discovered in the USA (see pictures). It was the great grandfather - Mr. La Haye - of the current owner in France who purchased the Delahaye after the Rallye Monte Carlo in the 1950s. This means the car is still with its second owner's family.

At Rétromobile this fabulous Delahaye 235 by Antem will be revealed by the Auto Veteran Company. They are located in Hall 1 – L062 together with Christoph Grohe. You are welcome to have a look at this Delahaye 235 by Antem which is offered for sale for the first time in approx. sixty years.

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