The 1957 Talbot-Lago T14 America: A Rare Gem of French Engineering

A New Era for Talbot-Lago

Talbot-Lago emerged from the Second World War into a drastically changed automotive world. The financial wounds of the conflict left even the wealthiest struggling to justify purchasing luxury vehicles. Additionally, modern manufacturing processes were moving away from the traditional rolling chassis concept, making it difficult for Talbot-Lago to find customers or turn a profit.

The 1954 Talbot-Lago T14 LS: A Struggling Start

Despite these challenges, Talbot-Lago invested in a new engine for the 1954 Salon de l’Automobile de Paris. This engine found its way into the ‘new’ 2500 Coupé T14 LS. Although the swoopy bodywork – initially crafted from aluminium, later replaced with steel – was visually striking, it couldn’t mask the issues beneath the surface. Specifically, the engine was underdeveloped and unreliable, and the underpinnings could trace their origins back to the 1930s. Unsurprisingly, sales were slow, and only 54 of these initial models were produced, so it is a super rare car.

The 1957 T14 America: A Final Attempt

Talbot-Lago made one last attempt to stay afloat with the introduction of the T14 America in 1957, the final model before the company’s demise in 1959. Based on the same Carlo Delaisse design and chassis as the T14 LS, the America featured a BMW V8 engine from the BMW 502 model, paired with a ZF gearbox. Additionally, the engine displacement was slightly reduced to meet tax regulations. Notably, the America was the only Talbot-Lago model to feature left-hand drive.

A Car for the American Market

As its name suggests, the T14 America was designed for the US market. However, only 12 cars were sold, largely due to its steep price at the time. This marked a sad end for the once-great French marque. By mid-1958, the sale of Talbot-Lago to Simca was agreed, and the deal was finalised in 1959.

The Unique Talbot-Lago T14 America: Chassis 140057B

I photoed this Talbot-Lago, chassis number 140057B, at Concours of Elegance 2024. This car was the third of the 12 vehicles produced. Moreover, originally delivered in Gris Villemer with a beige leatherette interior, it was fitted with Robergel wire wheels. It also holds the distinction of being the only example equipped with a 100-litre fuel tank, an exceptional feature for a Talbot-Lago model.

A Journey Through Time

First sold in November 1957 to M Migliaccio, a French businessman residing in Algeria, the T14 remained in his family until 2006. It underwent a complete restoration between 2007 and 2011 by Pierre Corbeau and Christian Henquel. After its restoration, the car participated in the Monaco Motor Legend and was displayed at Techno-Classica Essen in 2012. Truly, this exemplified the rich history encapsulated by the Talbot-Lago.

Changing Hands: From Collectors to Custodians

Following its display, the car was sold to a Dutch collector, who owned it for three years before selling it to The Houtkamp Collection in The Netherlands. Around a year later, it passed into the care of its current owners, ensuring the preservation of this unique Talbot-Lago piece of automotive history.

Technical Specifications

Engine – 2476cc / V8 / Naturally aspirated / OHV

Transmission – Four-speed manual, RWD

Power – 123bhp

Torque – 145lb ft

Top Speed – 124mph

0-60 MPH – 12.3secs

Weight – 1000kg

What a beauty. Love this car, it just oozes luxury and sophistication. This car really caught my attention and made it into my top 10 cars at the 2024 Concours of Elegance. Check out that top 10 here.

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