1939 Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet

The Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet is a masterpiece of engineering and design from the year 1939, showcasing the pinnacle of automotive production at the time. This luxurious car was built by the eminent French automaker "Delahaye" in collaboration with the world-renowned coachbuilder "Figoni et Falaschi". The Type 165 Cabriolet was a limited-production vehicle, with only five examples manufactured, all of which had their own bespoke bodywork.

Under the hood, the Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet was powered by a 4.5-liter, inline-six engine that was capable of producing a remarkable 140 horsepower. This power output might seem relatively modest by today’s standards, but at the time, it was considered to be one of the most powerful engines on the market. The engine was also equipped with a triple carburetor setup, larger valves, and a redesigned camshaft, all of which contributed to its impressive power output.

The Type 165 Cabriolet also boasted a unique suspension system, with a front axle that was made up of two independent wishbones and coil springs. The rear axle was a live axle, suspended by semi-elliptic leaf springs. The braking system was hydraulic and was built with finned drums for optimal cooling. The car also featured a Rudge knock-off wire wheel hub mechanism, adding to its overall aesthetic appeal.

On the outside, the Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet was designed with exquisite attention to detail, with Figoni et Falaschi creating a sleek, aerodynamic body that was both visually stunning and functional. The body was crafted from aluminum, which helped to keep the car's weight down, while also contributing to its exceptional handling and performance. The car featured two doors and an open-top, with a retractable roof that could be used to shield passengers from inclement weather.

Inside, the Type 165 Cabriolet boasted a sumptuous and comfortable interior, with custom leather seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and polished aluminum accents throughout the cabin. The car also featured a unique instrument panel that housed a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge, along with auxiliary gauges that monitored oil pressure and temperature.

Overall, the Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet of 1939 is a testament to the incredible level of craftsmanship, engineering, and design that was achieved by Delahaye and Figoni et Falaschi nearly a century ago. The timeless elegance and exceptional performance of this car ensures that it remains a sought-after and highly collectible classic today.