1939 Talbot-Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe
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 Talbot Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe 1939 is a marvel of automotive engineering and design, truly a masterpiece of its time. This iconic car was designed by Joseph Figoni, one of the greatest coachbuilders of the 20th century, and crafted with technical innovations that set the standard for luxury automobiles.
One of the most striking features of the Talbot Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe 1939 is its teardrop shape, which Figoni created by hand-forming aluminum over a wooden frame. This aerodynamic design reduced drag and improved the car's performance, making it capable of reaching speeds of up to 120 miles per hour. The car's sleek lines were also accented by chrome trim and an elegant concave grille that added to its already impressive aesthetic.
Under the hood, the Talbot Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe 1939 was powered by an inline six-cylinder engine that produced 140 horsepower, which for the era was quite impressive. The engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission that provided smooth and responsive shifting. The car was also equipped with a hydraulic brake system that was far more effective than the traditional mechanical brakes of the time.
Inside, the Talbot Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe 1939 was just as luxurious and advanced. The car featured a spacious interior with comfortable leather seats and a radio that was uncharacteristic of cars of the era. The car also had a unique steering wheel with a retractable central hub that allowed for easier entry and exit.
Perhaps the most notable feature of this car is its suspension system, which was decades ahead of its time. The Talbot Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe 1939 featured independent suspension on all four wheels, with a transverse wishbone and torsion bars that provided superior handling and ride comfort. This system also allowed for a lower center of gravity, further enhancing the car's already impressive performance.
Overall, the Talbot Lago T150C Teardrop Coupe 1939 was a pioneer in the world of luxury automobiles, combining exceptional design with technical innovations that set new standards for its time. Today, it remains one of the most collectible and sought-after cars in the world, a testament to the genius of its creator and the enduring appeal of exceptional automotive engineering.
Milestones
- Conceptualization of the Teardrop Coupe began in 1937 by Talbot Lago’s chief engineer, Anthony Lago. - The T150C Teardrop Coupe was officially launched at the Paris Auto Salon in 1939, showcasing its aerodynamic design and luxurious features. - The car features a powerful 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, capable of producing 140 horsepower, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. - The Teardrop Coupe features a unique body design which was crafted by Italian coachbuilder Figoni & Falaschi, known for creating some of the world’s most iconic automotive designs. - The car was constructed with lightweight materials and had an extensively streamlined design, making it extremely aerodynamic and fuel-efficient. - The T150C Teardrop Coupe became one of the most sought-after luxury vehicles of its time, with a limited production run of only 14 units. - In 1948, an export version of the Teardrop Coupe was unveiled at the New York Auto Show, intended for the American market. - Today, the T150C Teardrop Coupe is considered one of the most important and valuable classic cars ever produced, with several units remaining in private collections and museums around the world.Technical
• Engine: 4.5-liter inline-six cylinder • Maximum horsepower: 140 hp at 4,500 rpm • Top speed: 109 mph • Transmission: Four-speed manual • Suspension: Independent front suspension and a De Dion rear axle • Wheelbase: 2,950 mm (116.1 in) • Length: 4,880 mm (192.1 in) • Width: 1,740 mm (68.5 in) • Height: 1,340 mm (52.8 in) • Curb weight: 1,270 kg (2,800 lb) • Body style: teardrop-shaped coupe • Designed by: French coachbuilder, Figoni et Falaschi • Production: 1939-1940 • Only 16 examples were produced • One of the most expensive cars of its time • Won the Grand Prix d'Honneur at the 1939 Concours d'Elegance at Bagatelle • Original price: $7,900Related manufacturer
CLASSIC CAR MATCHER