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1935 Delahaye 135 S

135 S image

The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.

The Delahaye 135 S, produced by French car manufacturer Delahaye from 1935 to 1954, is considered as one of the most advanced cars of its time for its modern engineering and technical superiority. The 1935 Delahaye 135 S was an iconic model of the range, featuring a 3557cc 6-cylinder engine with an overhead camshaft, capable of producing up to 160 horsepower. The engine was coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox, renowned for smooth and easy shifting.

The 135 S was built on a strong chassis featuring an X-shaped cross-braced frame and a suspension system with independent front and live rear axles. The car's rigidity and stability were ensured by a pair of longitudinal members and crosswise bracing, which was unusual for its time. The car's handling and grip were enhanced by its Dunlop tires, which were wider and lower than the normal tires.

The Delahaye 135 S has a sleek, aerodynamically designed bodywork that is both lightweight and strong, crafted mainly from aluminum. It has dynamic lines that extend from the long bonnet to the short rear end, gulf-wing side doors, and a wide radiator grille. The car's styling was developed by J. Saoutchik, a coachbuilder known for his artistic flare and innovative designs.

In addition to its advanced technical features, the Delahaye 135 S also boasted luxurious interiors, trimmed with high-quality leather and fitted with all the latest gadgets of the time. The car was equipped with a speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and oil pressure gauge to monitor the car's performance. A 3-spoke steering wheel, an adjustable driver's seat, and a comfortable passenger cabin with ample space for four adults made for an enjoyable driving experience.

Overall, the Delahaye 135 S 1935 was a masterpiece of precision engineering and technical innovation, well ahead of its time. It remains an iconic model, sought after by collectors and vintage car enthusiasts for its impressive technical specifications, luxurious interiors, and timeless design.

Milestones

- Introduced in 1935 as a successor to the Delage D8 - Featured a 3.6-liter, six-cylinder engine with triple carburetors and 160 horsepower - Offered in three different chassis lengths: short, medium, and long - Won the prestigious Monte Carlo Rally in 1936, 1937, and 1939 - Won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1938 with a Delahaye 135S entered by the privateer team of Eugene Chaboud and Jean Tremoulet - Produced until 1954 with various updates and improvements over the years - Became known as the “Queen of the Road” for its elegant styling and performance capabilities - Remains a highly sought-after collector car today.


Technical

- The Delahaye 135 S was introduced in 1935 as a sports variant of the Delahaye 135 model. - It was powered by a 3.6-liter inline-six engine that produced 160 horsepower. - The engine had a dual overhead camshaft design, with three carburetors, and was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox. - The car had a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in just over 10 seconds. - The body of the Delahaye 135 S was designed by coachbuilders Figoni et Falaschi and featured a sleek and aerodynamic shape with a long hood, flowing fenders, and a low-slung profile. - It had a ladder-type chassis with independent front suspension and a live rear axle. - The car weighed around 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg) and had a wheelbase of 114 inches (2,895 mm). - Some of the notable features of the Delahaye 135 S included hydraulic brakes, wire wheels, and a rear-mounted spare tire. - It was a racing success, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1938 and the Monte Carlo Rally in 1937 and 1938. - About 18 examples of the Delahaye 135 S were produced between 1935 and 1939.