Pre-war car expert Richard Adatto has calculated that more than 100 Delahaye chassis were bodied by Figoni & Falaschi, but he doesn’t attempt to profile every one of them here. Instead, he focuses on arguably the best examples of Joseph Figoni’s work (Ovidio Falaschi handled the financial side of the business), some of which are showcased in glorious studio photographs by Michael Furman – such as chassis 60743, pictured right, which was (rather unexpectedly) sold new to UK holiday camp entrepreneur Billy Butlin.
After a chapter about Joseph Figoni that draws on the author’s long friendship with Joseph’s son, Claude, for direct quotes, the history of each of the selected chassis is described in detail, with plenty of wonderful period photos and artwork complementing Furman’s studio work. Several design sketches by Figoni also feature, many not seen before.