Lot 184: 1934 DELAGE D6 11 CABRIOLET

Midnight blue over French blue, with blue leather interior

Engine: six cylinder overhead valve, 2,149cc, 63hp at 4,200rpm; Gearbox: three speed manual with reverse; Suspension: front, transverse leaf spring, rear, semi-elliptic leaf springs; Brakes: four wheel drum with cable operation and Duo Servo. Right hand drive

As one had come to expect from Delage, the D6 11 was very modern for its day and featured electrically welded chassis frame, independent front suspension, a square dimensioned engine and synchromesh gearbox. Another notable detail was the use of thermostatic radiator shutters. Built for two years only, this is an example from the second year of that production.

The car we offer for sale was restored to its present form in 1989. At this time the bodywork was constructed by French restorers Nantou to the current two seater with dickey configuration, modelled on an original Saoutchik design. The car was finished in the early 1990s, and was used for concours and touring events for which its design was highly commended and eminently practical. These included taking first prizes at the Paris Deauville Concours d'Elégance 1993 and on the Rallye de Lisieux in 1994, amongst others.

The vendor purchased the car in 1995 and has covered a mere 8000 kilometres since then. It is regularly started and run, and maintenance has been thorough including a refurbishment of Delage's unusual cooling system. Little in known about the history of the car prior to the current ownership, but it is well-known to the Delage Club of France whose president, M. Patrick Delage, helped identify the author if its (believed unique) design.

Today the 17 year old restoration has worn very well indeed. The paintwork is said to be in excellent order and the Connollised leather interior, which was retrimmed at the time of the restoration, shows little in the way of age or wear. With renowned Delage engineering complimented by rare and elegant aesthetics, this exemplary car glows with quality and draws admiring comment each time it is shown.