1908 Hispano-Suiza 12/15 HP Double Phaeton

1908 Hispano-Suiza 12/15 HP Double Phaeton

Since the creation of the Hispano-Suiza in 1904, the cars were built to very high standards of comfort and mechanical refinement. One reason for this refinement is related to the personality of the chief engineer, Marc Birkigt, a Swiss citizen, who was involved in the design of the automotive brand. Abandoning large displacement engines too, he was aware of the importance of lighter weight, for a mechanical providing for a good compromise between size and power. Particular attention was paid to the suspensions, which were designed to withstand the rough roads of the time and provide comfort to the occupants. Thus was born the reputation of the brand throughout its existence, as a fierce competitor to carmakers of the level of Rolls-Royce.

This car, as per its registration book is a Hispano-Suiza 12/15 HP from 1908. Plates fixed on both sides of the double phaeton body suggests that it was designed by the coachbuilders J. Rothschild et Fils, but it's have no certainty as to its original design.

A very similar looking body can be seen in page 364 of the book "The Hispano-Suiza 1889-1915" by Emilio Paulo. It shows signs of restoration and has beautiful old seats (despite a small tear in the back seat). Powered by a four-cylinder side-valve monobloc, the car is equipped with artillery wheels and beautiful Ducellier lamps.

Descriptions and pictures by artcurial & 360carmuseum