- SWB Grand Sport Chassis (2650 mm) Grand Sport Motor (190 bhp @ 4200 rpm) The only Grand Sport fitted with Figoni & Falaschi coachwork The final teardrop coachwork, with driving characteristics unmatched by pre-war cars Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance - Best of Show Nominee in 2018 Chantilly Concours d’Elegance - Best of Show in 2019 Salon Privé Concours - Best of Show in 2019
This Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport is a true one-off, commissioned by the wealthy and influential French industrialist Mr. Fayolle, who made his fortune in the production of zippers. For the bodywork, Fayolle entrusted Figoni et Falaschi, asking them to create a design fully in keeping with their celebrated “Teardrop” (Goutte d’Eau) tradition.
The origins of the T26 Grand Sport itself date back to Anthony Lago’s decision to offer an exclusive, road-going sports chassis that could be clothed by the few remaining elite European coachbuilders of the post-war era. Powered by a 4.5-liter straight-six engine, these exotics were the ultimate high-performance Grand Routiers—machines capable of serving a Grand Prix team while also being competitive enough to win at Le Mans.
This particular example was bodied by Joseph Figoni and is the only Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport ever to receive Figoni et Falaschi coachwork. This elegant fastback coupé subtly echoes Figoni’s famed Teardrop forms while simultaneously engaging with the emerging post-war pontoon styling language. The car was unveiled to the public at the 1950 Paris Auto Salon, where its advanced and dramatic design immediately set it apart.
Decades later, the car’s exceptional significance and beauty were reaffirmed on the concours field. In 2018, it made a strong impression at Pebble Beach, where it was nominated for the prestigious Best of Show award. The following year, in 2019, it achieved the highest honors by winning Best of Show at the Chantilly Arts & Elegance, and once again just a few months later at Salon Privé.
