Delage D6 by Autobineau

The Delage D6 3 litres bodied by Autobineau ranks among the most elegant representatives of pre-war French motoring. The D6 lineage began in the early 1930s, when Louis Delage sought to restore prestige to his marque despite difficult economic circumstances. Its straight-six engine quickly became one of the most refined of its time: smooth, silent and solidly built, it embodies the high-level French mechanical know-how.

The 3-litre version appeared in the late 1930s, at a time when Delage entrusted the manufacture of its bodies to Autobineau, a subsidiary of Letourneur et Marchand. Autobineau creations are distinguished by lines of elegant classicism and perfect proportions, already expressing a subtle aerodynamic influence. The D6 3L coupés and cabriolets produced between 1938 and 1940 are among the most beautiful French cars of the interwar period.

Under the bonnet, the 2, 984 cm³ six-cylinder develops around 90 horsepower, allowing speeds of nearly 140 km/ h, a respectable performance for a grand luxury tourer. The chassis, with great rigidity, combines with independent front suspension and hydraulic brakes, giving the D6 confident handling and remarkable comfort.

After the war, Delage, now part of Delahaye, briefly continued D6 production in modernised forms. But the heroic era — that of the D6 3L Autobineau — belongs to a bygone golden age. Today rare, these cars symbolise the perfect alliance between technique, art and craftsmanship: each example, hand-crafted, was intended for a clientele of aesthetes for whom the automobile represented far more than a means of transport — a true work of art.

The model shown is a Delage D6 3L equipped with its origin and six-cylinder engine with three carburettors and a Cotal gearbox. One of the few examples to bear an Autobineau coachwork, it is distinguished by its six-window saloon silhouette with generous dimensions, imbued with elegance. The original upholstery, in blue leather with beige piping, testifies to an exceptional manufacturing quality, as do the wood veneers, in good condition. Among the many period features are a sunroof, a car radio, a Soliflore and a Quillery steering wheel. The whole, sound and well-preserved, presents a beautiful patina that gives the car authentic charm, the result of time and respectful use.

According to the information gathered, this D6 would have been bought new by a carrier from Orléans, before passing into the hands of Mr. Garino, former first deputy to the mayor of Puteaux. It changed owner in 2010, then in 2015 when it joined Claude Gratzmuller’s collection. The car benefited from an old paint with a still seductive lustre, 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 fitted with a sunroof, a car radio, heating and an era-specific extinguisher. Supplied with its cover, it ranks among the last Delages produced before the marque ceased in 1954. An example as complete and original as this, with an authentic patina, wonderfully illustrates the build quality and refinement that made Delage’s reputation.

Chassis no. 880268

Engine no. 880268