Napier T78 1914
system. They are an important testimony to
historic custom design and technology which
is really appreciated by amateurs and experts.
The British Napier T78 1914 is a rare master-
piece of mechanical engineering and aes-
thetics which anticipated reaching a target
speed of 110 km per hour. A powerful cylin-
der engine that could be started even elec-
trically (other than by a traditional lever), a
lighting system supplied with electricity,
luxury and comfortable shamrock-green
velvet seats and extra devices and a custom-
tailored carriage make this car something
revolutionary. A great investment for H.S.H.
Prince Rainier III who fell in love with this car
while taking part in an auction.
The Helica Leyat 1921, by the French manufac-
turer Marcel Leyat, catches one’s attention for
its fancy shape. Directly inspired by a biplane
aerodynamic fuselage, this fast car surmount-
ed by a huge rear back helix failed to take root
in the market due to its unsatisfactory per-
formance and propensity for reckless driving.
Plunging ourselves into the Crazy Twen-
ties, the renowned Great Gatsby times, the
1928–1930 Ford Types A and L and some
emblematic Rolls Royce models show how
124 / Hello Monaco Summer–Autumn 2018
To Visit
fast the engine technology evolved at the
beginning of the last century. An evolution
which gave rise to the subject of a special
showroom at the Monaco Casino, in June.
The Ford Break de chasse 1937 belonged
to Prince Louis II (great grandfather of
Prince Albert II) who used it mainly for go-
ing hunting. The lateral sides of the car,
which are made in wood, are pretty im-
pressive considering that this material has
been little used in car manufacturing due
to high maintenance costs, and despite its
lightness and resistance.
A priceless model is the unique Hispano Sui-
za H6B 1928, designed by a Swiss engineer
and financed by some Spanish investors.
The raspberry-pink Mercedes Benz 300 SL
1956 is one of the eighteen models pro-
duced by the German Car Company main-
ly addressed toward American women
who would like to feel «cool» showing off
a futuristic butterfly car-door design.
The beloved green - Borneo Renauld
Floride 1959, special gif t to Princess
Grace, among Prince Albert II’s favourite,
is in perfect working order and it encom-
passes all the special memories of a First
Lady whose name is forever linked to the
Principality. Just like the British Sunbeam
Alpine 1954 (recently bought by Prince
Albert II), a perfect copy of the one used
in the movie «To Catch the Thief» by Al-
fred Hitchcock, starring Grace Kelly, set
between Nice and Monaco.
A symbol of what would have been con-
sidered the Monegasque « fair y tale»