As peace returned to Europe in the wake of World War II, Delahaye looked to restart production of its pre-war models as a means to generate revenue.

Postponed by some eight years as a result of the conflict, the marque’s first new model since the Type 165 was finally launched in 1948, dubbed the 175.

Featuring a forward-thinking semi-monocoque chassis housing an enlarged and improved 4.5-litre version of the firm’s tried-and-test straight-six, the revised model range—which also included the 178 and 180—was engineered and styled to appeal to the burgeoning North American market.

Compared to the standard 175 model, the 175S was both more powerful and more sporting.

In addition to stylish wire wheels, the 175S featured an engine fed by three Solex carburettors, rather than only one, contributing to spirited performance.

The wide chassis of the Type 175S allowed coachbuilders to create appealing, perfectly proportioned, and very expensive bodies; the average cost of coachwork alone wa...