Delahaye 135 M Cabriolet “Malmaison” 1948 - #800997 - Pourtout Coachwork - Superb Condition - Known History

This Delahaye 135 M left the workshops of Marcel Pourtout in Rueil-Malmaison in 1948. It is a very fine and rare example of the early post-war Delahayes, combining classic styling with the emerging “integrated pontoon” design.

Our chassis #800997 was built to be displayed at the 1948 Paris Motor Show under the name “Malmaison.” The vertical grille was designed by Philippe Charbonneaux, officially approved by the brand for his post-1946 creations, and later refined by the coachbuilder.

This car took part in several concours d’élégance events in period, including Enghien-les-Bains in June 1949 and the Grande Cascade at the Bois de Boulogne. It is also known that, bearing registration 1548 C 75, it was owned in 1952 by the Marquis de Cuevas, a famous choreographer and ballet company director, followed by several French owners: the Comte de Ribot in 1954 (461 BW 06), Louis de Poitevin de Fontignac in 1957 (851 CM 16), Mr. Beauvais in 1970 (613 LC 86), Mr. Vernhes in 1982 (3429 KM 32), and Mr. Ramos in 1983 (1943 JP 33), before being exported to the United States after a restoration (bodywork, paint, upholstery) carried out by Atelier Automobiles Anciennes in Chambray-lès-Tours in 1988/1989.

A letter from Claude Pourtout (son of coachbuilder Marcel Pourtout), who supervised the restoration, certifies the car as an authentic creation from his father’s workshops.

Sold at auction in New York in October 1989, the car was subsequently displayed in two museums in the United States before being acquired by its current owner over 10 years ago.

The car retains its original engine #800997, type 103 6S with three carburetors, and a Cotal gearbox. The whole has been serviced for the sale and runs well.

Finished in deep red with a white dashboard and white leather upholstery, it is fitted with chrome wire wheels with central locking (an option on the 135 M). The car still has a U.S. title but has been customs-cleared in Europe.

The vehicle belongs to a well-known French collector who has had it serviced for sale. It will not require any additional expenses for its future owner.

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The details and information in this listing are based on the seller’s statements and are their sole responsibility.

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Internal reference: AO19321