Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 800320
In the aftermath of World War II, Delahaye revived its celebrated
pre-war Type 135 model, enlisting the talents of the era's most
distinguished coachbuilders. While many post-war designs exhibited
restraint compared to their flamboyant pre-war predecessors, Swiss
carrossier Hermann Graber distinguished himself with an exceptional
ability to blend pre-war elegance with emerging aerodynamic
principles. The result was some of the most captivating, and rare,
Delahaye bodies ever created.
This 1946 Delahaye 135 M Cabriolet, chassis number 800320, is
believed to be one of only two such examples crafted by Graber.
Known for his work with prestigious French marques like Bugatti,
Talbot-Lago, and Delage, Graber's signature style incorporated high
wing lines and flowing, rounded shapes that lent his designs a
sense of proportion and grace. His philosophy also eschewed
excessive ornamentation, resulting in simple, unadorned exteriors
that have stood the test of time.
The example offered here, chassis number 800320, is further
distinguished as the pinnacle of Delahaye's celebrated 135 series,
showcasing the coveted "M" (Modifie) specification. As such, it
boasts a powerful 3.5-liter overhead valve inline-six engine fitted
with the desirable triple Solex carburetor assembly, producing a
potent 110 horsepower. Power is transmitted through a Cotal
four-speed electromagnetic transmission - a robust drivetrain that
made it popular among privateer racing enthusiasts.
This 1946 Delahaye 135 M Graber Cabriolet was reportedly delivered
new to a Mr. M. Labhard of B�le, a prominent Swiss banker. Labhard
cherished the car until his passing, after which it remained with
his estate in storage until 1995. The car then passed through the
hands of two subsequent owners, Dr. Hair and Swiss professor Dr.
Reuter, the latter of whom commissioned a comprehensive restoration
by marque expert Richard Gorman of Vantage Motor Works in Miami,
Florida. This painstaking work saw the Delahaye finished in a rich
dark blue over red leather.
In 2021, the car underwent a cosmetic refresh, once again being
repainted with a dark blue exterior. This dramatic hue harmonizes
beautifully with the well-preserved red leather interior and blue
fabric soft top, while chrome Rudge wire wheels complete the
sporting aesthetic. Importantly, the car also retains its proper
triple-carbureted 135 M engine. As a testament to the exceptional
quality and correctness of its restoration, this 135 M Cabriolet
graced the lawns of the 2022 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance,
featured in the dedicated Graber class. Moreover, the car is
reported to have completed the event's challenging Tour d'Elegance,
demonstrating not only its beauty but also its tremendous
usability.
In 2024, the authenticity of this remarkable Delahaye was verified
by Club Delahaye president Jean-Paul Tissot, and the car is offered
with his detailed report compiling its impressive provenance. This
1949 Delahaye 135 M Graber Cabriolet represents a rare opportunity
to acquire one of the most elegant and capable sports tourers of
the immediate post-war era. Its combination of advanced
engineering, exquisite coachwork, and documented provenance makes
it an excellent candidate for both concours exhibition and spirited
grand touring, ranging from the fairways of Pebble Beach to the
winding roads of the Mille Miglia Storica.
