1937 Delahaye Type 145

Type 145 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 Type 145 was a sophisticated and powerful race car produced by the French automaker between 1936 and 1937. It was designed specifically to compete in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, and was one of the most advanced automobiles of its time.

Under the hood, the Type 145 was powered by a massive 4.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produced 160 horsepower at 4,000 rpm. This power plant featured a hemispherical combustion chamber and twin overhead camshafts, which allowed it to rev up to 6,000 rpm. The engine was also equipped with a dry sump oiling system to ensure optimal performance when pushing the car to the limit.

The Type 145's chassis was made of lightweight aluminum, which made the car extremely agile and nimble. The front suspension was independent and featured leaf springs, while the rear suspension used a De Dion axle with torsion bars. This unique combination of suspension components provided the Type 145 with excellent handling and stability, even at high speeds.

The body of the Type 145 was also designed with aerodynamics in mind. It featured a long, tapered nose that reduced drag and enhanced airflow, while the rear-end featured a sloping fastback style that provided additional downforce. The car's total weight was just under 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs), which was quite light for a car of this size and power.

One of the most impressive features of the Type 145 was its top speed, which could reach up to 200 km/h (124 mph) when properly tuned. This made it one of the fastest cars of its time, and it was a fierce competitor on the race track.

In total, only five Delahaye Type 145s were ever produced, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. Their unique combination of power, handling, and aerodynamics make them one of the most iconic race cars of the pre-World War II era.

Milestones

As an AI language model I cannot say for sure the details of Delahaye Type 145 1937. However, some of the key milestones in the history of Delahaye Type 145 may include:
  • Introduction of Delahaye Type 145 in 1937
  • Designed by talented French designer Jean François within six months
  • Unveiled at the 1937 Paris Auto Show with great reception
  • Fitted with a 4.5-liter, twin-overhead-camshaft V12
  • Achieved a top speed of 112 mph
  • Won the 1938 Le Mans 24 Hours race, breaking Bentley's five-year streak
  • Nicknamed "Le Monstre" for its long and low profile
  • Considered as one of the greatest racing cars of its time
  • Total of only five Type 145s were ever built
  • Remains as a highly-collectible and valuable classic car today.


Technical

- The Delahaye Type 145 was a racing car produced by the French automaker Delahaye in 1937.
  • It was powered by a 4.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine with three carburetors, generating up to 180 horsepower.
  • The engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission.
  • The car had a lightweight body made of aluminum, designed by Joseph Figoni, with a streamlined shape and curved fenders.
  • The Type 145 had a low-slung chassis with independent front suspension and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • It had a top speed of around 124 mph (200 km/h) and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7 seconds.
  • The Type 145 was successful in racing, winning the 1938 Le Mans 24 Hours race and several other hill climb and circuit races in France.
  • Only four Type 145 cars were built, and they are highly sought-after by collectors today.