Talbot Lago T26 Record Cabriolet
Talbot-Lago naturally belongs in the list of famous French car brands. Between 1935 and 1960, the brand built the most beautiful cars, for which, unsurprisingly, racing was a major source of inspiration. One of the most important models was the T26, which came onto the market in 1946. Participation in the 24-hour race at Le Mans was intended to put Talbot Lago on the map, but the market was not ready for the luxury cars the brand produced. Consequently, it did not take long before Talbot Lago went bankrupt. Fortunately, many beautiful models have been preserved. Almost all Talbots sold in the late 1940s were fitted with Talbot bodies, built in the manufacturer's extensive workshops. The T26 Grand Sport (GS), however, was an exception: these cars were supplied exclusively as a bare chassis with a six-cylinder engine, meaning customers had to select a custom-made body from a specialized coachbuilder. Coachbuilders such as Saoutchik, Franay, Oblin, and Figoni et Falaschi vied to surpass Talbot's own designers with their creations.
Talbot-Lago naturally belongs in the list of famous French car brands. Between 1935 and 1960, the brand built the most beautiful cars, for which, unsurprisingly, racing was a major source of inspiration. One of the most important models was the T26, which came onto the market in 1946. Participation in the 24-hour race at Le Mans was intended to put Talbot Lago on the map, but the market was not ready for the luxury cars the brand produced. Consequently, it did not take long before Talbot Lago went bankrupt. Fortunately, many beautiful models have been preserved.
Almost all Talbots sold in the late 1940s were fitted with Talbot bodies, built in the manufacturer's extensive workshops. The T26 Grand Sport (GS), however, was an exception: these cars were supplied exclusively as a bare chassis with a six-cylinder engine, forcing customers to select a custom-made body from a specialized coachbuilder. Coachbuilders such as Saoutchik, Franay, Oblin, and Figoni et Falaschi vied to surpass Talbot's own designers with their creations. The Swiss company Graber joined the competition and built a number of beautiful examples.
The car we are pleased to offer was fully restored between 2016 and 2018 on behalf of the owner, who has owned the car for fifty (!) years. An extensive photo report of this restoration is available. No expense was spared to restore the car to its original condition. Under the hood resides the original Grand Sport engine: a 4.482 cc 6-cylinder with double overhead camshafts, producing 190 hp. It is the same engine that made Talbot Lago famous in international motorsport. The engine is coupled to a special Wilson four-speed pre-selector gearbox. Shifting requires a brief explanation, but once you have mastered it, it is a truly regal experience.
The interior has been restored to its original condition and features a stylish green leather interior, combined with green carpet. Everything works and every detail is beautifully finished. The fabric convertible top is dark brown and forms a stylish whole with the cream-white bodywork.
Cars like these can genuinely be viewed as works of art. We would be delighted to invite you for an introduction!