June 25, 2022 Collector Motor Series Auction Buyer's Guide

1939 Delage D6-70 Figoni and Falaschi Drophead Lot 62 | Offered without Reserve

Coachwork for this beautiful French touring car was performed by Figoni et Falaschi, as verified by serial number 757. It is believed this example, chassis number 51740, debuted at the 1939 Concours d Elegance au Bois de Boulogne, where it took home a well-deserved gold medal on its maiden outing. According to several sources, the car’s early concours career was cut short by the invasion and subsequent occupation of France by the Axis powers and the owner hid it away in Portugal to keep it safe from the enemy. It remained there after the war, quietly undisturbed until its discovery in 1974. Following its discovery and sale to only its second owner, 51740 was restored in Europe and well cared for before making its way to the United States in 2001. It is powered by a robust 2,973cc OHV Inline 6 with Triple Solex Carburetors, 4-Speed Cotal Electro-Mechanical Manual Transmission, 4-Wheel Transverse Leaf Springs with Live Rear Axle, and 4-Wheel Drum Brakes.