Description
The Delage D6 3-litre, bodied by Autobineau, ranks among the most elegant examples of pre-war French motoring.
The D6 lineage was born in the early 1930s, when Louis Delage sought to restore prestige to his marque despite difficult economic conditions. Its inline six rapidly became one of the most refined engines of its era: smooth, quiet and solidly built, it embodied high-level French mechanical savoir-faire.
The 3-litre version appeared in the late 1930s, at a time when Delage entrusted its coachwork to Autobineau, a subsidiary of Letourneur et Marchand. The creations of Autobineau are distinguished by lines of elegant classicism and perfect proportions, already showing a subtle aerodynamic influence. The D6 3L coupes and convertibles produced between 1938 and 1940 rank among the finest French cars of the interwar period.
Under the bonnet, the 2, 984 cm³ six-cylinder develops around 90 bhp, enabling speeds of around 140 km/ h, a respectable performance for a large luxury tourer. Its chassis, notably rigid, combines with independent front suspension and hydraulic brakes, giving the D6 reassuring handling and remarkable comfort.
After the war, Delage, now part of Delahaye, briefly continued D6 production in updated forms. But the heroic era — that of the D6 3L Autobineau — already belongs to a bygone golden age.
Today rare, these cars symbolize the perfect fusion of technique, art and craftsmanship: each example, hand-finished, was intended for a clientele of aesthetes for whom the automobile was far more than a means of transport — a true work of art.
The car on display is a Delage D6 3L equipped with its original six-cylinder engine with three carburettors and a Cotal gearbox. One of the few examples with Autobineau coachwork, it stands out with its six-light saloon silhouette in generous dimensions, exuding elegance.
The original upholstery, blue leather with beige piping, testifies to outstanding craftsmanship, as do the wood trim, which is in good condition. Among the many period fittings are a sunroof, an in-car radio, a Soliflore and a Quillery steering wheel.
The whole, sound and well-preserved, shows a beautiful patina that gives the car an authentic charm, the fruit of time and respectful use.
According to gathered information, this D6 was bought new by a haulier from Orléans, before passing into the hands of Mr Garino, former deputy mayor of Puteaux. It changed owner in 2010, then in 2015 when it joined the Claude Gratzmuller collection. The car received an older lustre-finish paint that is still appealing, and the original blue leather upholstery, matched with replaced carpets, remains in good condition. The engine, rebuilt by the previous owner, runs perfectly; the clutch, tyres, brakes, starter and bumper chrome were also restored.
In addition to its luxurious finish, the car is equipped with a sunroof, an in-car radio, heating and a period fire extinguisher. Supplied with its cover, it ranks among the last Delages produced before the marque ceased in 1954. A specimen as complete and authentic as this, with genuine patina, beautifully illustrates the build quality and refinement that made Delage’s reputation.
Chassis n° 880268
Engine n° 880268
