1938 Delage D8 - 120 Aerodynamic Coupe

by Allen Beatty

Title

1938 Delage D8 - 120 Aerodynamic Coupe

Artist

Allen Beatty

Medium

Photograph - Photographs

Description

1938 Delage Aerodynamic Coupe by Allen Beatty

A 1938 Delage D8-120 Aerodynamic Coupe, one of the classic cars competing in the first annual Edison Concours d'Elegance held in West Orange, New Jersey. A Concours d'Elegance (from French meaning a competition of elegance referring to the gathering of prestigious cars) dates back to 17th Century French aristocracy, who paraded horse-drawn carriages in the parks of Paris during Summer weekends and holidays. Over time, carriages became horseless and the gatherings became a competition among automobile owners to be judged on the appearance of their automobiles.
Traditionally, vehicle judging at a Concours d'Elegance is more demanding than that of a neighborhood or general automobile show. Trained judges examine the vehicle thoroughly. They rate each and every component. Only those vehicles that are judged perfect (or very nearly so) in every way, are considered eligible for trophy class. A Concours d'Elegance show features only the best of the best.
By a personal directive from Louis Delage to coachbuilder Marcel Detout, an order was entered fro a very special sports saloon to be built on a prototype D8-120 chassis, powered by a 4.75 lier inline-eight cylinder engine of 120 HP and a Cotal electro-magnetic gearbox operated by a small lever on the steering column. The exterior design was stunning and groundbreaking.

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January 12th, 2016

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