The Talbot-Lago T-150 series

One of the most iconic cars to have been produced in the pre-war era, the Talbot-Lago T-150 is a shining example of 1930’s elegance, combining a perfect balance of engineering brilliance and artistic design. Let’s have a drive down memory lane and take a look at this pure masterpiece of a car…

Talbot-Lago was a French manufacturer with British roots, having been created by Anthony Lago following his arrival at Automobiles Talbot in 1932. The brand became known for its racing heritage and sophisticated vehicles, as the company steadily carved a niche by creating luxury cars that could also hold their own on the racetrack. 

At the Paris Motor Show in 1934, Lago introduced the Talbot-Lago T-150 Grand Sport, with elegant coachwork designed by Joseph Figoni. The design of the Talbot-Lago T-150, particularly the ‘Teardrop’ SS variant by Figoni & Falaschi, is often regarded as one of the most beautiful automotive designs ever created. Its sweeping curves, flowing lines and enclosed wheels give the car an organic, streamlined appearance. The bodywork was highly aerodynamic for its time, which not only contributed to its striking look but also improved its performance. The teardrop shape was heavily influenced by aviation design, a common trend in the 1930s, as manufacturers sought ways to reduce drag and increase speed.

Underneath the body, the T-150 was powered by a robust 4 litre straight-six engine, capable of producing around 140 bhp, which was impressive for its era. The car could reach a top speed of over 100 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. The T-150 was available with various custom-built bodies, with each coachbuilder putting their unique touch on the chassis, but it was the Figoni & Falaschi design that became the most famous. The C (competition) model, SS (Super Sport) and the ‘Teardrop’ were all well received, albeit with relatively small numbers made - indeed, it’s believed that only around 16 of the ‘Teardrop’ coupes were actually built.

Anthony Lago was always looking to innovate and improve the brand. Before the T-150, Talbot-Lago had introduced the T-120, a model that laid the groundwork for the brand’s future successes. The T-120 was a well-regarded luxury car that featured a smaller, less powerful 3 litre engine compared to its successor. While it did not enjoy the same racing success as the T-150, the T-120 helped establish Talbot-Lago’s reputation for building luxurious and well-engineered vehicles. The lessons learned from the T-120 were pivotal in the creation of the T-150, particularly in terms of engine refinement and chassis development. 

In 1938, the T-150 made its mark at the 24 Hours of LeMans race, finishing in third place overall. The car’s solid performance in this legendary endurance race demonstrated its superior engineering and durability. Competing against formidable rivals like Bugatti, Talbot-Lago’s third-place finish was a remarkable achievement, and showcased the brand’s ability to combine luxurious styling with motorsport capabilities.

The Talbot Lago T-150 is now considered one of the most coveted classic cars in the world, with collectors eager to own one - should they have the money! The Figoni & Falaschi ‘Teardrop’ variants are particularly sought after, often fetching millions at auctions. In 2013, one of these rare beauties was sold at auction for a staggering $4.8 million, and prices have continued to rise. Depending on the condition and the variant, a T-150 can often be sold for anywhere between £2-£5 million today.

The Talbot-Lago T-150 models were a symbol of a golden age in automotive history where artistry and engineering were in perfect harmony. From the racing success at Le Mans, to its exquisite design, the T-150 remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its beauty, innovation, and performance. A pretty rare find, if you are lucky enough to come across one in the flesh...