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and were increasingly seen as outdated.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 onyour
favorite roads with a huge smile on your face.
Offers welcome, trades considered.
