In August 1920 STD Motors Limited was formed, reflecting the merger of Sunbeam, Talbot and Darracq manufacturers under single ownership. During the mid-20s, Talbot’s Swiss-born chief engineer, Georges Roesch, was commissioned with the design of an all-new Talbot which resulted in the successful 14/45 model of 1926. Whilst only of 1,666 cc, the engine for this car had sophisticated engineering - six cylinders; a short, stiff 7-bearing crankshaft; very light valve gear and large ports/valves, which made for a very compact engine with the ability to safely rev to over 5,000 rpm and run a high compression ratio. This – effectively lower weight and greater efficiency – allowed performance figures similar to much larger engines to be achieved. This formula worked well and the engine was repeatedly bored out, allowing further performance improvements. The first was the 18-70 model (later simply the Talbot 70 or 75), with an engine capacity increased to 2,276 cc. This was followed by the Talbot 90, with a higher compression ratio and bigger carburettor giving a further increase in power. In the mid-1930s, during the Great Depression, STD Motors collapsed, unable to pay its debts. The individual car manufacturers were sold off, with the Rootes brothers picking up the London-based Talbot factory. The existing Talbot range was up to date, desirable and readily marketable, so Rootes initially simply continued manufacture of the same vehicles. Gradually however, modifications were made, components from Rootes own cars were introduced and the last all-Talbot cars were produced in 1938. The Talbot 75 offered here has a coachbuilt drophead Coupe body from the Carlton Carriage Co. of London. Rootes Group archive records show that the car was ordered by Thornton Engineering Ltd. Bradford (who were Talbot dealers at the time) in April 1937. The car was delivered in June of that year and the first owner is unknown, but the car was sold again just 3 months later to a new long-term owner – as a 21st birthday present. This gentleman kept the car (in Wetherby, Yorkshire) for over 40 years. It was laid up during the War years and briefly sold in the ‘50s to a neighbour of his, before being bought back again. It was purchased in 1981 by a well-known Jersey-based collector and re-registered in the island. The new owner commissioned a full engine rebuild in the mid-80s and repainted the car in its current dark blue finish. This second period of long-term ownership ended in 2006, with the car passing to another local owner who commissioned new restoration works – to the interior; electrics and some mechanical elements - in 2008. The car has been maintained and well cared for during its time in the island, with the last recorded service being in March 2023. Mechanically, the 6-cylinder engine and gearbox are in good order, with the car running and driving well. Having been in the hands of enthusiastic owners for many years, it has been well cared for and properly maintained. The car will be checked over by Le Riche Auto to ready it for sale. The restoration and paintwork completed following the car’s move to Jersey remain in very good shape - the revised blue colour suiting the handsome, streamlined coachbuilt body (it originally carried a grey colour scheme). The chromework and painted wire wheels are in very good order, as is the lined, folding hood. The interior, having been re-trimmed throughout, wants for nothing. Seats, doorcards, carpets and dashboard are all excellent condition. Although its origins may date back to the 1920s, the Talbot 75 was a very well-engineered and built car, which remained competitive and desirable throughout its production life. A pre-War motorcar with sprightly performance that can be used even today without too much compromise. In combination with the strikingly handsome coachbuilt body, this car provides an excellent vintage driving experience. We have some early history details on file and a comprehensive record from 1981 when it moved to Jersey. The car is Jersey registered and we can assist with worldwide shipping and importation processes if required.