1938 Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster

D8-120 de Villars Speedster image

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The Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster 1938 is an iconic and luxurious automobile that was produced by the French automaker Delage. It was a true masterpiece of automotive engineering at that time and represented the pinnacle of automotive design and technology. This two-seater sports car was designed by renowned coachbuilder de Villars and was one of the most beautiful cars of its time.

Under the hood, the Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster 1938 was powered by a 4.3-liter straight-eight engine that produced an impressive 120 horsepower. This engine was a masterpiece of engineering, featuring a dual overhead camshaft, hemispherical combustion chambers, and hemispherical pistons. This configuration allowed for a smooth and powerful driving experience, with maximum torque available at low engine speeds.

The engine was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox which was mounted in the front of the car, sending power to the rear wheels. The car’s suspension system featured independent front suspension with double wishbones and a live rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs. The hydraulic brakes were large and powerful, providing excellent stopping power when needed.

The body of the Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster 1938 was made of lightweight aluminum, a popular material used to create high-performance cars in the era. The car had a sleek and aerodynamic design that was complemented by a long hood, sweeping fenders, and a low profile. The car’s overall styling was reminiscent of an airplane, with its long, tapered tail and exposed wheels.

Inside the car, the Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster 1938 was fitted with luxurious amenities that were uncommon for sports cars of that time. It had comfortable leather seats and was equipped with an advanced heating and ventilation system. Additionally, the car featured a dashboard with a full array of gauges, including a speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure gauge, and water temperature gauge.

The Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster 1938 was a rare and coveted automobile, with only a few examples produced. Today, this car is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, with its combination of sleek design, advanced engineering, and luxurious amenities making it a true automotive masterpiece. With its beauty, power, and style, the Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster 1938 remains a true automotive icon to this day.

Milestones

- 1936: Development of the Delage D8-120 begins. - 1937: The Delage D8-120 de Villars body style is introduced. - 1938: The Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster is unveiled at the Paris Auto Show. - 1938: Delage enters a team of three D8-120 Speedsters in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. - 1939: One of the D8-120 Speedsters wins the top prize at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. - 1940: Production of the Delage D8-120 ends due to the onset of World War II. - 1990: The Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster is valued at over $1 million. - 2018: The Delage D8-120 de Villars Speedster is featured in the "Into the Great Wide Open" exhibition at the Mullin Automotive Museum in California.


Technical

• Engine: 4,063 cc inline-eight-cylinder engine • Power: 120 bhp at 4,000 rpm • Transmission: Four-speed manual with synchromesh gearbox • Suspension: Independent front suspension with transverse leaf spring, live rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and hydraulic shock absorbers • Brakes: Four-wheel drum brakes with hydraulic assistance • Top speed: 100 mph • Bodywork: Two-seater open roadster with custom coachwork by de Villars • Weight: 1,500 kg • Wheelbase: 3,170 mm • Length: 4,475 mm • Width: 1,670 mm • Height: 1,420 mm • Tires: 6.50-16 • Fuel tank capacity: 68 liters • Production: Only two were made.
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