Talbot Baby classic cars for sale

History and Introduction of the Talbot Baby

The Talbot Baby made its debut in 1936, right after the French division of Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq was acquired by Tony Lago. It marked Talbot’s return to innovation, offering buyers a broad choice of body styles—a ‘coach’ two-door saloon, a 2+2 cabriolet, and a two-seater open cabriolet. Its production was directly shaped by the pre-war context. By 1942, with World War II taking hold, Talbot was forced to halt production and convert its Suresnes factory for wartime use, making the original Baby a rare sight today. The postwar revival of the Talbot Baby in 1951 reflected changing tastes and the postwar automotive industry’s need for modernised, practical vehicles while retaining a level of exclusivity.

Model History

At launch, there were three primary models named according to their fiscal power: 15 CV, 17 CV, and 23 CV. Each designation corresponded to engine sizes and equipment: the 15 CV with a 2.7-litre straight-six (75 hp), 17 CV with a 3-litre (90 hp), and 23 CV with a 4-litre power unit (105 hp). All versions shared the same platform, manual four-speed transmission, and rear-wheel drive. The most notable difference between the versions was the choice of engine and wheels. Production ceased in 1942 due to the war. The model re-emerged in 1951, now with 2.7-litre engines of either four or six cylinders and more subdued styling. The Baby bid farewell in 1954 as the last purely French Talbot saloon, right before being absorbed by Chrysler.

Particularities and Highlights

Talbot Baby models are recognisable by their right-hand drive configuration—uncommon for a French car of this era. The Baby’s sporty proportions, solid construction, and varied engine options set it apart. It remains a singular entry in Talbot’s portfolio as the only focus of both listing supply and demand—100% of current classic Talbot listings and views on our platform belong to the Baby model series.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There were no officially designated factory special editions of the Talbot Baby. However, the cabriolet variants, especially the two-seater models, are particularly sought after due to their rarity and elegant bodywork, sometimes attributed to the craftsmanship of independent coachbuilders.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The entire Talbot Baby range features rear-wheel drive and a robust manual four-speed transmission. The engines ranged from the refined 2.7-litre unit producing 75 hp in the 15 CV, progressing to the 3.0-litre 90 hp in the 17 CV, up to the 4.0-litre 105 hp of the 23 CV model. Depending on the engine, top speeds ranged from 130 km/h to 145 km/h. The postwar Baby models featured updated 2.7-litre engines capable of 110 hp, though handling and dynamics remained true to the stately French grand tourer approach: a balance between comfort and performance for relaxed long-distance travel. - Talbot Baby 15 CV: 2.7-litre straight-six, 75 hp, top speed 130 km/h.

• Talbot Baby 17 CV: 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, 90 hp, top speed 135 km/h.
• Talbot Baby 23 CV: 4.0-litre six-cylinder, 105 hp, top speed 145 km/h.
• Cabriolet versions: Particularly interesting for their styling and open-top experience.

Design, Interior and Accessories

The original Talbot Baby presents a clear sporting influence with generous dimensions, low-slung lines, and classic two-door ‘coach’ or cabriolet forms. Notably, all models were built with right-hand drive for a unique, retro appearance. The interiors were typically finished to a high standard with quality upholstery, and dashboard layouts reflected pre-war luxury tastes. Postwar Baby models adopted a more reserved external shape but retained top-class materials inside. Factory accessories varied depending on model and year, but bespoke options—especially from independent bodybuilders—often included custom paint, wood panelling, and leatherwork.

Other Notable Features

Many Talbot Babies feature coachbuilt bodies, especially in cabriolet form. These cars often bear signatures from renowned French craftsmen of the era, making each example potentially unique in exterior and interior finish.

Summary

The Talbot Baby remains a reference point for French executive sporting vehicles of the late 1930s and early 1950s. As the focal point for collectors searching for classic Talbot cars, it combines a distinctive design, strong mechanical base, and unique historical significance. Interest in Talbot Baby models on the classic car market remains highly concentrated, reflecting both their rarity and unique appeal among French luxury vehicles.