According to the auction house, this rare Talbot-Darracq Grand Prix car of the so-called "Roaring Twenties", has attracted a pre-sale estimate of 400,000 - 600,000 euros.
The car was built by two Italian Grand Prix engineers working at Talbot's Suresnes factory in Paris and set some new standards at the time, producing some 160 bhp from just 1,488 cc capacity.
This particular car passed via intermediate owners to Australia. When found in March 1988, the car was complete, but in need of comprehensive restoration. It has now been completely rebuilt to running condition retaining the Plate 1931 chassis, whilst otherwise meeting the 1926-27 Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq Grand Prix Racing specification.
"Legendary is a too often used term with collectors' cars, but in this case it's entirely appropriate. This is one of just three Grand Prix Talbot-Darracqs built for the 1926 season and has a well-known and chronicled history,” said James Knight, Group Head of Bonhams Motoring Department, in a statement for the press.
“The engineering is magical, a 1.5-litre supercharged straight-eight capable of a then astronomical 7,000 rpm. The engine incorporated dozens of intricate roller- and ball-race bearings to minimise internal friction loss. And it's not a static exhibit, it is fully operational with the present owner enjoying various motor sport events in Australia,” added Knight.
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