1923 Hispano-Suiza 16 HP Rabassada For Sale in St Louis, MO, 2146377529 Tweet

Hispano-Suiza revolutionized European luxury motoring in the 1920s crafting some of the most technically advanced and exquisitely built automobiles of the era-machines that combined aerospace-grade engineering with a regal presence fit for kings and captains of industry. With the French-built H6 dominating the high-end market and gracing the garages of royalty aristocrats and industrialists the company faced challenges in maintaining momentum at its Barcelona factory. The Spanish-built offerings including the 16 and 30 HP models had been in production for years and were increasingly seen as outdated. Seeking to reinvigorate the marques appeal Hispano-Suiza turned to the sporting world leveraging motorsports growing popularity to craft a bold new image that would captivate a younger generation of buyers.The opportunity arose when Hispano-Suiza president Damin Mateu with support from the board of directors directed the technical team at La Sagrera to develop a competition version of the 16 HP to contest the three-liter class. The Rabassada Hill Climb a challenging course winding through the Serra de Collserola mountains outside Barcelona became the ideal proving ground. The new Hispano-Suiza Rabassada featured a shortened chassis a lightweight two-seat aluminum body and the standard 60-horsepower four-cylinder engine. While the modifications were relatively straightforward they transformed the cars character making it nimble and aggressive. Its debut at Rabassada not only demonstrated its capability but also sparked immediate public interest in a road-going version.The polished aluminum body and purposeful stance of the Rabassada captivated spectators leading to an influx of customer inquiries. Recognizing the demand Hispano-Suizas board deliberated on producing a limited series of short-chassis 16 HP models. While some directors worried about its potential impact on the standard model the Rabassada marked a pivotal moment for Hispano-Suiza-demonstrating their willingness to innovate and adapt to shifting market demands. Ultimately only a handful were believed to have been built and today surviving examples are exceedingly rare.We are pleased to offer this remarkable 1922 Hispano-Suiza 16 HP Rabassada chassis number 5688. Believed to be the sole surviving example of its type much of its early history remains shrouded in mystery. However its known provenance begins in the 1980s when it was acquired by a prominent US-based collector where it received pride of place in the collection before arriving at Hyman Ltd where we have simply fallen in love with this fabulous Hisso.Photos of this Hispano-Suiza surely can be deceiving with the full look and size of the 16 HP being enthralling in person. Having been restored under previous care we are unsure of the exact dates when this Hisso was restored however the restoration has held up well to make any future custodian proud. Additionally having been subject to a recent aesthetic refresh a new breath has been breathed by this car. The nickel-plated radiator and long louvred bonnet conceal the single overhead cam four cylinder that sports an intimidating and throaty idle. Engine-turned and nickel-plated finishes are found throughout the motorcar especially in the cabin where two large pleated black leather bucket seats hold driver and occupant firmly. Handsome wing front fenders and dual rear mounted spares cap off the sporty appeal of the homologated hill climb car.Always well taken care of in the previous owners collection the car was recently serviced sorted and thoroughly road-tested. On the road it is utterly delightful delivering a refined and exciting driving experience characterized by light steering smooth handling and abundant torque. The result is a dynamic and confidence-inspiring performance reflective of the marques engineering prowess.This 1922 Hispano-Suiza 16 HP Rabassada is a rare and highly original example that exemplifies the brands dedication to advanced engineering and motorsport heritage. A significant piece of Hispano-Suiza history it presents a compelling opportunity for collectors with an appreciation for pre-war craftsmanship and innovation. This is a fabulous early motorcar that would be equally at home on a rally a show field or just driving it on your favorite roads with a huge smile on your face.Offers welcome trades considered.For additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7797-1923-hispano-suiza-16-hp-sport-rabassada/