Talbot T110 classic cars for sale

History of the Talbot T110

The Talbot T110 made its debut in the late 1930s as part of the marque’s renowned luxury model range. Talbot, rooted in both British and French traditions, was celebrated for combining engineering prowess with grand touring capabilities on their large chassis models. The T110 was developed during a period of intense technical competition, positioning it as a direct competitor to other European luxury vehicles of its time. The model’s story is closely linked to the evolution of sporting saloons and touring cars, making it a relevant chapter in the history of European pre-war motoring.

Model Range History

The T110 emerged as an evolution of Talbot’s large saloon and touring car series, following models like the T105. Its successor continued the tradition of blending performance with luxury through refined chassis and high-displacement engines. The T110 stands as a milestone within Talbot’s line-up, representing the last of the large-displacement, coachbuilt models before World War II radically changed the automotive landscape.

Distinctive Features and Market Overview

The Talbot T110 is known for its imposing chassis paired with flexible, high-displacement six-cylinder engines and coachbuilt bodies from prominent ateliers. Most T110s were equipped with expansive saloon or drophead coupé bodies, allowing for customisation according to customer preferences. Its drivetrain featured robust mechanicals—a testament to Talbot’s engineering focus. In our database, T110 models account for 100% of all Talbot listings and views, underlining its status as the sole representative of the marque in our current classic car market coverage.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collector Variants

Many T110s were delivered to order and bodied by prestigious French coachbuilders, such as Figoni & Falaschi or Saoutchik. These bespoke versions offered unique flourishes—ranging from aerodynamic coupés to lavish four-door tourers—and are especially sought-after for their individuality and craftsmanship. Limited-run variants often featured enhanced interiors or rarer mechanical configurations bespoke to the buyer’s wishes.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

There is currently no documented list of typical weak spots for the Talbot T110 available in our specialist sources. As with any complex pre-war luxury vehicle, we recommend thorough inspection of the drivetrain, braking system, and the structural integrity of coachbuilt bodies, as these are critical to both longevity and safety. Maintenance is most straightforward when carried out by professionals familiar with period Talbot mechanics.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The T110 was celebrated for its torquey, smooth-running six-cylinder engine, which allowed for swift long-distance touring even by modern classic standards. The rigid chassis and weight distribution, especially when matched with lighter coupé bodies, contributed to relatively agile handling for a car of its era. Transmission was manual, offering solid engagement and reliability. Despite its focus on refinement, the T110 could hold its own on demanding European roads. Among the coachbuilt variants, those configured by Figoni & Falaschi stand out for their pronounced styling and premium finish. Technical highlights include the overhead valve six-cylinder, which delivered robust power through a well-matched gearbox, and the adaptable chassis that could underpin both spacious saloons and elegant coupés.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

T110 interiors reflected the custom wishes of Talbot’s clientele, often featuring hand-stitched leather upholstery, ornate wood paneling, and bespoke dashboard layouts. The exterior lines—especially when styled by houses like Saoutchik—highlight the flowing, art deco-inspired forms of late-1930s French design. Special attention was paid to colour palettes, with some examples exhibiting unique two-tone schemes or special lacquer finishes. Accessories might include period-correct radios, fitted luggage, or custom instrumentation depending on the original specification.

Additional Aspects

Due to its bespoke nature, documentation and provenance play a significant role in the valuation of any T110. Many vehicles remain with comprehensive historical records, including build sheets from coachbuilders, further adding to their historic and collector interest. Internationally, restoration and service networks tend to be limited, so ownership may require sourcing parts from specialists in France or the UK.

Summary

The Talbot T110 stands as a showcase of pre-war automotive excellence, balancing sophisticated engineering with the highest levels of bespoke craftsmanship. Current listings reflect its rarity and its importance as a tangible slice of motoring history, with each surviving vehicle offering a direct connection to the golden era of luxury touring cars.