During the 1930s, Paris-based carossiers (coachbuilders) Joseph Figoni and Ovidio Falaschi were known for their stylistic automobile automobiles which featured swoopy, elegant, custom coachwork. Two of their automobiles were included in a special exhibit at the Portland Art Museum called The Shape of Speed: Streamlined Automobiles and Motorcycles, 1930-1942.
1938 Delahaye 135M Roadster
According to the display:
“They took modern streamlining to the next level by allowing the optimal aerodynamic shape to dictate the styling, accentuating the car’s elegance and heightening the impression of a singular, flowing form.”
Only eleven of these cars were produced, each with minor variations. Today, seven still exist.
1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS
The museum display calls this car “one of the most iconic automobiles to emerge from the age of streamlining.” A total of 17 of these cars were produced and at least 10 still survive.
More Shape of Speed
Shape of Speed: An Overview (Photo Diary)
Shape of Speed: Some Unique American Automobiles (Photo Diary)
Shape of Speed: Some European Automobiles (Photo Diary)
Shape of Speed: Some American Automobiles (Photo Diary)