Art of the Classic Car

chassis that featured a lowered suspension, a narrow track, and a
larger engine.
One look is all you need to know that this is an incredible
automobile. The car’s laid-back but sharp-framed radiator grille
contrasts nicely with the sweeping lines that carry the front fenders
back to the cowl scuttle, and the fully skirted rear fenders and sloping
roofline back to the car’s pointed tail. The side glass is particularly
elegant, with no weatherstripping—however practical—wedged
between the front and rear windows. There is almost no chrome
trim either, nor parking lights or bumpers. An immaculately turned-
out engine bay and a set of fitted luggage round out the stunning
appearance of this unique automobile.
After Marcel Pourtout completed the car, it debuted at the
1937 Paris Auto Salon. Louis Delage was listed as the car’s owner
until 1940. It came to the United States in the mid-1950s and went
through a series of owners before Mann became aware of the car and
was able to purchase it. After more than two years of restoration and
body repair, it emerged to the delight of the Pebble Beach audience.