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 145 V12 1937 is a French luxury car from the pre-war era well-known for its exceptional engineering and style. It is powered by a 4.5-liter V12 engine, delivering 160 horsepower at 4,200 rpm. The engine has an intricate design, with a double camshaft for each bank of cylinders, twelve cast iron cylinder blocks, and a total of 24 valves. The three-carburetor Solex setup ensures fuel efficiency, while the aluminum radiator helps keep the engine cool under stressful conditions.
The car has an art deco-inspired exterior design with a long and streamlined body that sits on a steel ladder frame. The body is superbly crafted, with curves and lines that flow in harmony with the car's overall design. The front fascia features a prominent grille that extends from the hood to the lower bumper with polished horizontal bars creating an impressive presence on the road. The hood has multiple louvers with a pair of side-mounted horns adding a distinguished look to the car.
The Delahaye 145 V12 1937 has a four-speed manual transmission that transfers power to the rear wheels. The suspension consists of independent front suspension with coil springs and knee-action shock absorbers, and a rear suspension with a live axle and semi-elliptical leaf springs. Drum brakes on all four wheels provide reliable stopping power, and the car has excellent stability and control owing to its responsive steering system.
Inside the cabin, the car oozes luxury with leather seats, a wooden dashboard, and chrome-finished details. The instrument cluster has speedometer, oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge, and a fuel gauge. The car has ample legroom for the driver and passengers with two bucket seats in the front and a bench seat in the back. The windows can be rolled down and up with the use of a hand crank, adding to the vintage feel of the car.
The Delahaye 145 V12 1937 is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering and design. The car is a perfect combination of elegance, luxury, and performance, making it a highly sought-after vehicle even today. The car's impressive specs and unique features provide an unforgettable driving experience that leaves a lasting impression on even the most discerning car enthusiasts.
Milestones
- The Delahaye 145 V12 was introduced in 1937 as a high-performance luxury car. - It was powered by a 4.5-liter V12 engine that produced up to 160 horsepower. - The bodywork was designed by coachbuilder Figoni & Falaschi, and featured a sleek, aerodynamic shape with curved lines and elegant details. - The car was equipped with advanced features for its time, such as hydraulic brakes, independent front suspension, and a four-speed transmission. - The Delahaye 145 V12 was successful in high-profile racing events, including the 1937 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 1939 Pau Grand Prix. - In 1938, a special version of the Delahaye 145 V12 called the "Million Franc" was created as an ultra-luxury model with even more extravagant styling and features. - During World War II, many Delahaye 145 V12s were hidden away or destroyed, making surviving examples today extremely rare and valuable.Technical
- Engine: V12 - Displacement: 4.5-litre - Maximum power output: 160 hp @ 4,500 rpm - Maximum torque output: N/A - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Suspension: Independent front and rear - Brakes: Hydraulic drum - Top speed: 140 mph (225 km/h) - Fuel consumption: N/A - Weight: 1,200 kg (2,646 lb) - Wheelbase: 3,200 mm (126 in) - Length: 4,500 mm (177 in) - Width: 1,750 mm (69 in) - Height: 1,450 mm (57 in) - Steering: Worm and rollerCLASSIC CAR MATCHER