The 1937 Delage D8-120 Coach Aérosport stands as a monumental achievement in the world of pre-war European motoring. Born from a strategic partnership between Delage and Delahaye, this model successfully merged high-performance mechanicals with avant-garde French styling. It arrived during an era when manufacturers struggled to survive the Great Depression by creating cars that were essentially rolling sculptures. This particular chassis, number 51042, represents one of only seven first-series examples built with this specific body configuration. Its presence in Miami marks a significant moment for collectors of fine French coachwork.
The Collaborative Engineering of the D8-120
Creating the 1937 Delage D8-120 Coach Aérosport required a unique blend of components from two of France’s most prestigious marques. The chassis was a modified Delahaye design that utilized an advanced independent front suspension with a transverse leaf spring. This foundation provided the stability needed for a heavy luxury car to maintain high speeds comfortably. Engineers sought to create a gran routier that could traverse the continent with ease and mechanical grace. The result was a platform that handled with surprising agility for its majestic physical proportions.
Aerodynamic Innovation by Letourneur et Marchand
The Coach Aérosport body was a radical departure from traditional automotive shapes of the mid-1930s. Designed by Marcel Letourneur, the car featured early aerodynamic research that resulted in a distinctive fastback roofline. A subtle dorsal ridge runs down the tail, while the glasshouse utilizes a pillarless design with overlapping panes. This specific look directly influenced the hardtop styling that became popular in America decades later. Because the glass descends smoothly into the beltline, the car maintains a sleek profile that appears in motion even when parked.
History and Provenance of Chassis 51042
This 1937 Delage D8-120 Coach Aérosport has a well-documented journey through some of the world’s most prominent collections. After spending time in England, it migrated to the United States under the care of dedicated enthusiasts like Henry Uihlein II. In the early 1990s, the car received an exhaustive restoration by the famous Hill & Vaughn facility in California. Since then, it has been a frequent participant at top-tier events such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Its long-term preservation within a single collection for twenty-five years ensures its mechanical integrity remains high.
Exhibition and Concours Recognition
Following its restoration by Phil Hill’s renowned shop, the car became a staple in automotive journalism and high-level exhibitions. It appeared at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and was prominently featured in an issue of Automobile Quarterly. These appearances cement its status as a CCCA Full Classic of the highest order. The dark, sophisticated color palette currently on the car highlights the chrome accents and freestanding headlamps unique to the first-series cars. Such a pedigree is essential for a vehicle expected to command a multi-million dollar price tag.
Eight Cylinder Performance and Specifications
The 1937 Delage D8-120 Coach Aérosport is powered by a 4.7-liter straight-eight engine derived from the Delahaye 135 MS unit. This motor produces approximately 115 horsepower, which was a formidable figure for a luxury touring car in 1937. With its generous torque, the car can reach speeds approaching 100 mph while maintaining a refined cabin environment. The drivetrain is designed for long-range cruising, featuring a smooth-shifting gearbox that complements the engine’s power delivery. Every mechanical component reflects the uncompromising quality required for high-speed French touring.
Summary of the Coach Aérosport
The 1937 Delage D8-120 Coach Aérosport is a rare convergence of engineering excellence and artistic vision. It remains one of the most significant bodies ever placed on a Delage chassis, representing the end of an era for bespoke French manufacturing. With its documented restoration and award-winning history, it offers a unique opportunity for a collector to own a piece of aerodynamic history. This car is not simply a vehicle but a testament to the flamboyant spirit of the 1930s. It continues to captivate audiences with its timeless silhouette and remarkable mechanical heart.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
