Delahaye 135

Delahaye 135/138/148/168
Delahaye 135 MS Cabriolet Pourtout
Overview
Manufacturer	Delahaye
Production	1935–1954 ca. 2,000 built
Designer	Jean François
Body and chassis
Class	Luxury car
Layout	FR layout
Related	Delahaye 134 Delahaye 175
Powertrain
Engine	3,227 cc straight-6, 95–110 hp (71–82 kW) 3,557 cc straight-6, 90–160 hp (67–119 kW)
Transmission	4-speed manual 4-speed pre-selector
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,950 mm (116 in)
Curb weight	935 kg (2,061 lb) (chassis) 1,250–1,640 kg (2,760–3,620 lb)
Chronology
Successor	Delahaye 235

Delahaye 135 was an automobile manufactured by Delahaye. Designed by young engineer Jean François, it was produced from 1935 until 1954 in many different body styles. A sporting tourer, it was also popular for racing.

The Delahaye 135, also known as "Coupe des Alpes" after its success in the Alpine Rally, was first presented in 1935 and signified Delahaye's decision to build sportier cars than before. The 3.2-litre overhead valve straight-six with four-bearing crankshaft was derived from one of Delahaye's truck engines and was also used in the more sedate, longer wheelbase (3,160 mm or 124 in) Delahaye 138. Power was 95 hp (71 kW) in twin carburetor form, but 110 hp (82 kW) were available in a version with three downdraught Solex carbs, offering a 148 km/h (92 mph) top speed. The 138 had a single carburetor and 76 hp (57 kW), and was available in a sportier 90 hp (67 kW) iteration.

The 135 featured independent, leaf-sprung front suspension, a live rear axle, and cable operated Bendix brakes. 17-inch spoked wheels were also standard. Transmission was either a partially synchronized four-speed manual or four-speed Cotal pre-selector transmission.

Competition 135s set the all-time record at the Ulster Tourist Trophy and placed second and third in the Mille Miglia in 1936, and the 1938 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The list of independent body suppliers offering to clothe the 135 chassis is the list of France's top coachbuilders of the time, including Figoni & Falaschi, Letourneur et Marchand, Guilloré, Marcel Pourtout, Frères Dubois, J Saoutchik, Franay, Antem and Henri Chapron.