Vehicle Description
Hispano-Suiza revolutionized European luxury motoring in the 1920s,
crafting some of the most technically advanced and exquisitely
built automobiles of the era-machines that combined aerospace-grade
engineering with a regal presence fit for kings and captains of
industry. With the French-built H6 dominating the high-end market
and gracing the garages of royalty, aristocrats, and
industrialists, the company faced challenges in maintaining
momentum at its Barcelona factory. The Spanish-built offerings,
including the 16 and 30 HP models, had been in production for years
and were increasingly seen as outdated. Seeking to reinvigorate the
marque's appeal, Hispano-Suiza turned to the sporting world,
leveraging motorsport's growing popularity to craft a bold new
image that would captivate a younger generation of buyers.The
opportunity arose when Hispano-Suiza president Dami�n Mateu, with
support from the board of directors, directed the technical team at
La Sagrera to develop a competition version of the 16 HP to contest
the three-liter class. The Rabassada Hill Climb, a challenging
course winding through the Serra de Collserola mountains outside
Barcelona, became the ideal proving ground. The new Hispano-Suiza
Rabassada featured a shortened chassis, a lightweight two-seat
aluminum body, and the standard 60-horsepower four-cylinder engine.
While the modifications were relatively straightforward, they
transformed the car's character, making it nimble and aggressive.
Its debut at Rabassada not only demonstrated its capability but
also sparked immediate public interest in a road-going version.The
polished aluminum body and purposeful stance of the Rabassada
captivated spectators, leading to an influx of customer inquiries.
Recognizing the demand, Hispano-Suiza's board deliberated on
producing a limited series of short-chassis 16 HP models. While
some directors worried about its potential impact on the standard
model, the Rabassada marked a pivotal moment for
Hispano-Suiza-demonstrating their willingness to innovate and adapt
to shifting market demands. Ultimately, only a handful were
believed to have been built, and today, surviving examples are
exceedingly rare.We are pleased to offer this remarkable 1922
Hispano-Suiza 16 HP Rabassada, chassis number 5688. Believed to be
the sole surviving example of its type, much of its early history
remains shrouded in mystery. However, its known provenance begins
in the 1980s, when it was acquired by a prominent US-based
collector, where it received pride of place in the collection
before arriving at Hyman Ltd, where we have simply fallen in love
with this fabulous "Hisso".Photos of this Hispano-Suiza surely can
be deceiving, with the full look and size of the 16 HP being
enthralling in person. Having been restored under previous care, we
are unsure of the exact dates when this Hisso was restored, however
the restoration has held up well to make any future custodian
proud. Additionally, having been subject to a recent aesthetic
refresh, a new breath has been breathed by this car. The
nickel-plated radiator and long, louvred bonnet conceal the single
overhead cam four cylinder that sports an intimidating and throaty
idle. Engine-turned and nickel-plated finishes are found throughout
the motorcar, especially in the cabin where two large, pleated,
black leather bucket seats hold driver and occupant firmly.
Handsome wing front fenders and dual rear mounted spares cap off
the sporty appeal of the homologated hill climb car.Always well
taken care of in the previous owner's collection, the car was
recently serviced, sorted, and thoroughly road-tested. On the road
it is utterly delightful, delivering a refined and exciting driving
experience, characterized by light steering, smooth handling, and
abundant torque. The result is a dynamic and confidence-inspiring
performance, reflective of the marque's engineering prowess.This
1922 Hispano-Suiza 16 HP Rabassada is a rare and highly original
example that exemplifies the brand's dedication to advanced
engineering and motorsport heritage. A significant piece of
Hispano-Suiza history, it presents a compelling opportunity for
collectors with an appreciation for pre-war craftsmanship and
innovation. This is a fabulous early motorcar that would be equally
at home on a rally, a show field, or just driving it on your
favorite roads with a huge smile on your face.Offers welcome,
trades considered. For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7797-1923-hispano-suiza-16-hp-sport-rabassada/
