Description
To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Paris event, 28 January 2026.
€175, 000 - €250, 000 EUR
Believed to be the sole surviving 16 HP Rabassada model
Highly sporting 3-litre specification with lightweight bodywork
Formerly a long-term part of a prominent American collection
A highly sought-after Hispano-Suiza of great character
Produced by Hispano-Suiza at its original Barcelona factory, the 16 HP offered here is the highly sought-after Rabassada variant—built on a shortened chassis with a 60 horsepower four-cylinder engine and, of course, handsome and sporting two-seater bodywork. This model was produced in honour of an identical car developed at the behest of Hispano-Suiza president Damián Mateu for the 3-litre racing class and tested in the Rabassada Hill Climb in the Serra de Collserola mountains.
The car offered here is believed to be the sole surviving 16 HP Rabassada. It is known to have been acquired in the 1960s by William J Markley of Michigan and restored in his ownership. It was later acquired from Mr Markley in the late 1980s by prominent collector Terence E Adderley, in whose collection it was a stalwart for over 30 years. It still wears the hallmarks of its earliest restoration, with original stampings visible on the engine and on the serial number plate on the dashboard.
An exceptionally scarce Spanish-market Hispano-Suiza, this car would be a wonderful, sporting counterpoint to the H6 or J12 in any collection or simply entertaining to enjoy in its own right. It has considerable charm that is sure to appeal to any enthusiast.
Please note this lot has entered the EU on a temporary import bond, which must be cancelled either by exporting the lot outside of the EU on an approved Bill of Lading with supporting customs documentation or by paying the applicable VAT and import duties to have the lot remain in the EU.
Veuillez noter que ce lot est entré dans l'UE sous couvert d'une autorisation d'importation temporaire, qui doit être annulée soit en exportant le lot en dehors de l'UE avec une lettre de débarquement approuvé accompagné des documents douaniers nécessaires, soit en payant la TVA et les droits d'importation applicables pour que le lot reste dans l'UE.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys. com/ auctions/ pa26/.
