This unique 1938 Hispano-Suiza H6C Xenia is powered by a six cylinder 8 litre / 488 cui 160 hp engine.

Styling was by aerodynamicist Jean Andreau and crafted by Saoutchick on a modified Hispano – Suiza H6B chassis.

The doors open in parallel with the coachwork in much the same way as the rear side door of a VW Microbus.

Xenia was commissioned by Andre Dubonnet to showcase his company’s latest patent hydro-pneumatic independent suspension which was subsequently used under license by General Motors, Alfa Romeo and Fiat amongst others.

The vehicle features a Hispano – Suiza power assisted brake system which was one of several patented Hispano – Suiza features used under license by Rolls Royce.

This car was named after Andre Dubonnet’s wife Xenia, allegedley the was kept hidden for the duration of WW2 in the Saint Cloud road tunnel.

Thanks for joining me on this “Hydro-pneumatic Independent Suspension” of ‘Gettin’ a li’l psycho on tyres”, I hope you will join me again tomorrow. Don’t forget to come back now !