2.9-Liter 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Zenith Downdraft Carburetor
60hp at 2300rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Leaf Spring Suspension Front and Rear
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

• Believed to be the sole surviving Hispano-Suiza 16 HP Rabassada
• Sporting shortened-chassis variant with 60hp four-cylinder engine
• Lightweight two-seat bodywork
• Acquired by William J. Markley in the 1960s and subsequently owned by Terence E. Adderley
•Retains original factory stampings on the engine and dashboard serial plate


THE HISPANO-SUIZA 16HP RABASSADOR

Hispano-Suiza's Barcelona factory produced a number of distinctive sporting automobiles during the early 1920s, before the marque became more widely associated with the large luxury cars such as the H6 and J12 models of the thirties that would define its reputation in later years. Among the more specialized of these early machines was the 16 HP Rabassada, a shortened-chassis derivative named for the Rabassada Hill Climb in the Serra de Collserola outside Barcelona - an important testing ground for automobiles of the day. The variant reflected Hispano-Suiza's interest in competition and high-performance development, combining a compact chassis with a four-cylinder 3-liter engine. A car of similar specification was developed at the direction of company president Damián Mateu for the 3-liter racing class and tested at the Rabassada Hill Climb event.


THE CAR OFFERED

Chassis 5688 is believed to be the only surviving 16HP Rabassada. Built in Barcelona in 1922, it combines the model's shortened chassis with the 2.9-liter engine, producing a period-rated 60hp at 2,300rpm (16HP denoted the horsepower rating for governmental taxation purposes, based on the size of the engine rather than true horsepower output). This engine and chassis were coupled with lightweight sporting two-seat coachwork, creating a powerful combination that secured its place in competition. Its subsequent history is unusually well established within the Hispano-Suiza collecting community. The car was acquired during the 1960s by Michigan collector William J. Markley, who commissioned its restoration during his ownership. In the late 1980s it passed to Terence E. Adderley, remaining in his collection for more than three decades.

The car continues to display evidence of that earlier restoration, including factory stampings on the engine and the serial-number plate mounted on the dashboard. Such details provide tangible links to its Barcelona origins while also reflecting the care with which the automobile has been maintained through its long-term collector ownership.

With its uncommon Rabassada specification, compact proportions, sporting bodywork and direct connection to Hispano-Suiza's early competition ambitions, chassis 5688 offers a different perspective on a marque better known for its grander automobiles. Its exceptional rarity, documented collector history and identifying details make it a particularly engaging example of the sporting Hispano-Suizas produced in Barcelona during the company's formative years.

Please note that, subject to acceptance by Belgian Customs as a qualifying collector's vehicle, if this vehicle is imported and remains in Belgium it will benefit from 0% Import Duty and the reduced Belgian Import VAT rate of 6%. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, import rates and VAT treatment may vary if the vehicle is imported into another EU Member State. An administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances with the Bonhams Customs Agents. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Car Department or our recommended shippers.