Cars

The Autobineau-bodied Delage D6 3-liter is one of the most elegant representatives of pre-war French motoring. The D6 line was born in the early 1930s, when Louis Delage sought to restore his brand’s prestige despite difficult economic conditions. Its in-line six-cylinder quickly became one of the most refined engines of its time: smooth, quiet and solidly built, it embodied top-level French mechanical expertise.

The 3-liter version appeared at the end of the 1930s, when Delage entrusted bodywork production to Autobineau, a subsidiary of Letourneur et Marchand. Autobineau’s creations were distinguished by elegantly classic lines and perfect proportions, already expressing a subtle aerodynamic influence. The D6 3L coupés and cabriolets produced between 1938 and 1940 are among the finest French automobiles of the interwar period.

Under the hood, the 2,984 cm³ six-cylinder engine develops around 90 hp, enabling it to reach speeds of up to 140 km/h, a respectable performance for a luxury tourer. The highly rigid chassis, combined with independent front suspension and hydraulic brakes, give the D6 a sure-footed ride and remarkable comfort.

After the war, Delage, now part of Delahaye, briefly continued D6 production in modernized forms. But the heroic period – that of the D6 3L Autobineau – already belonged to a bygone golden age. Rare today, these cars symbolize the perfect alliance between technology, art and craftsmanship: each handcrafted example was destined for a clientele of aesthetes for whom the automobile represented much more than a means of transport – it was a veritable objet d’art.

The model presented is a Delage D6 3L with its original three-carburetor six-cylinder engine and Cotal gearbox. One of the few examples to feature Autobineau bodywork, it is distinguished by its generously dimensioned, elegant six-window sedan silhouette. The original upholstery, in blue leather with beige piping, testifies to remarkable craftsmanship, as does the woodwork, in fine condition. Among the many period features are a sunroof, a car radio, a Soliflore and a Quillery steering wheel. All in all, the car is sound and well preserved, with a beautiful patina that lends it an authentic charm, the result of time and respectful use.

According to the information gathered, this D6 was bought new by a transporter from Orleans, before passing into the hands of Mr. Garino, former first deputy mayor of Puteaux. It changed ownership in 2010, and again in 2015 when it joined the collection of Claude Gratzmuller. The car has benefited from a former paint job with a still seductive sheen, and the original blue leather upholstery, matched with replaced carpets, remains in beautiful condition. The engine, rebuilt by the previous owner, is in perfect working order; clutch, tires, brakes, starter and bumper chrome have also been restored.

In addition to its luxurious finish, the car is equipped with a sunroof, car radio, heater and period fire extinguisher. Supplied with its cover, it is one of the last Delages produced before the brand was discontinued in 1954. Such a complete, original example, with its authentic patina, illustrates magnificently the quality of construction and refinement for which Delage is renowned.

Chassis no. 880268

Motor no. 880268