Highlights

D6-70 model, the ‘sweet spot’ of D6 development
Mixes Delage engine with innovative lightweight Delahaye Type 134 chassis
One of 100 built, of which only 50 were cabriolets
Cabriolet Chapron body assembled by University Motors Ltd (Body number 903)
Comprehensively restored, including bodywork, interior and mechanical components
Fitted with the clever clutchless four-speed Cotal electromagnetic gearbox
Long-term collector-keeper since 2005

The Appeal

Just 100 D6-70s were built, yet these exceptionally rare, beautifully-designed and engineered cars are considered the ‘sweet spot’ of the lengthy D6 lineage. Intended to showcase Delahaye’s takeover of Louis Delage’s firm, the car combined the former’s clever, lightweight ladder frame Type 134 chassis with the latter’s 2.7L engine and an innovative clutchless Cotal Electric 4spd gearbox.

The result was a car that won the Donington Park Tourist Trophy in 1938 and podium places at Le Mans in 1939 and 1949. Of the limited run, half were built as convertibles by University Motors to a design by Delage’s go-to penman, Henri Chapron. And what a design - looking at this sleek 1937 example, it is hard not to argue that it is one of the most arresting and graceful pre-war European drop heads.

The car has been in the hands of its long-term collector-keeper for many, many years. Records indicate that it has been extensively restored, with the current two-tone cream and black colour scheme applied eight years ago. The paintwork combines with a lovely red leather four-seat cabin. It is all in extremely good collector-quality condition with only minor points to note in photos.

For collectors of pre-war Continental motorcars, the opportunity to acquire a Chapron-designed, UK-bodied Delage D6-70 cabriolet is one that merits serious attention. With its restoration work completed and its distinguished lineage well documented, this is a car that would grace any collection or prove a welcome entrant at concours events and touring rallies alike.

History and Paperwork

DVLA records indicate first registration 7th October 1937
Three UK keepers recorded
Current keeper since April 2005
Previously white changed to cream/black in October 2018 according to DVLA records
Chassis number 51283
Body number 903, built by University Motors Ltd
Delivered to the coachworks on 14th September 1937
Cabriolet body designed by Henri Chapron
Produced during the period of Delahaye's stewardship of the Delage marque

The Condition

Older restoration in cream and black, which remains in very good order
Chapron designed a convertible built by UK coachbuilder University Motors
Chromework in good order as shown
Black painted wheels with matching spare and vintage tyres fitted
Black folding fabric roof in very good order as shown
Retrimmed red leather four-seat interior with dark wood veneers
Type 134 Delahaye lightweight ladder frame chassis
Bodywork, interior and mechanical components comprehensively restored

Henri Chapron’s CV is long and illustrious, yet the D6-70 is surely one of his greatest designs. This car has been restored and repainted in two-tone cream and black and is quite simply magnificent. There are a few minor paintwork points to note, but nothing that detracts from the overall impression.

The interior is similarly impressive, trimmed in red with some lovely detailing and clearly done to a high standard. Like the exterior, it looks barely used since completion.

The Mechanics

2,729cc OHV six-cylinder engine
Four-speed clutchless Cotal electromagnetic gearbox
All-round leaf spring suspension
Factory fitted with Hondaille shock absorbers
Four-wheel drum brakes

The D6-70 got the larger 2.7L engine, which shared its basic architecture with the 3L units used in the Le Mans racers. The combination of extra power with the light chassis meant these cars were quick cars with great handling.

This 1937 car received a comprehensive mechanical restoration some years ago and has been carefully stored and sparingly used ever since. It is said to run and drive well and come with a good history file.

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