Delahaye automobile manufacturing company was started by Emile Delahaye in 1894, in Tours, France. His first cars were belt-driven, with single- or twin-cylinder engines. In 1900, Delahaye left the company.

In 1901, the Société des Automobiles Delahaye constructed a factory in Paris, where they continued to manufacture cars and trucks. In 1908, they began producing four-cylinder engines, in sizes of 1.5 and 2.1 litres, as well as a 2.6-litre V6. They also licensed their designs to manufacturers in the U.S. and Germany. By the end of World War I, their major income was from their truck business.

In 1934, they introduced the 134N, a 12cv car with a 2.15-litre four-cylinder engine, and the 18cv 138, powered by a 3.2-litre six — both engines derived from their successful truck engines. In 1935, the introduction of the sporting Model 135 "Coupe des Alpes" car brought success to their car business as well, while the truck business also continued to thrive. Some of the great coachbuilders who provided bodies for Delahayes include Figoni et Falaschi, Chapron, and Letourneur et Marchand.