Hispano Suiza has brought together two of its most iconic cars, the historic 1938 Xenia Dubonnet, and the all-electric Carmen. The stage was the 'Chantilly Arts et Elegance' concours, held at the majestic Chateau de Chantilly, just North of Paris.
Despite their 81 year age gap, both models share many similarities, since the Xenia Dubonnet served as inspiration for the design of the Carmen, a model with which Hispano Suiza made its return to the automotive world just over three years ago. The Xenia Dubonnet currently belongs to the Mullin Automotive Museum Collection.
The classic Xenia Dubonnet was created by an aviator and inventor who modified the original car to go faster The Xenia Dubonnet is considered one of the most elegant and innovative cars in the history of Hispano Suiza. It was created by Andre Dubonnet, an aviator, athlete, racing driver and inventor who knew the potential of Hispano Suiza engines, since he had used them on his airplanes and had competed with them in car races.
Amazed by its capabilities, he decided to purchase a Hispano Suiza H6C, which he chose to personalise with a new, more aerodynamic bodywork and also with the independent suspension system that he himself had patented. He named it after his wife, Xenia, and unveiled it in 1938.
The meeting between the two Hispano Suiza cars took place at the Chateau de Chantilly, a majestic 19th century building. Some of the most elegant automobiles in the world, both current and historical, gathered there in an event marked by luxury and exclusivity.
Despite their 81 year age gap, both models share many similarities, since the Xenia Dubonnet served as inspiration for the design of the Carmen, a model with which Hispano Suiza made its return to the automotive world just over three years ago. The Xenia Dubonnet currently belongs to the Mullin Automotive Museum Collection.
Amazed by its capabilities, he decided to purchase a Hispano Suiza H6C, which he chose to personalise with a new, more aerodynamic bodywork and also with the independent suspension system that he himself had patented. He named it after his wife, Xenia, and unveiled it in 1938.
The meeting between the two Hispano Suiza cars took place at the Chateau de Chantilly, a majestic 19th century building. Some of the most elegant automobiles in the world, both current and historical, gathered there in an event marked by luxury and exclusivity.
