This has been sat on the shelf for many months since I built the chassis. It was about time I painted and finished off the bodyshell.

DRS 'Bodysnatchers' 57004 and 57008 'Telford International Railfreight Park June 2009' heading the 6C22 06:40 Kingmoor Depot to Sellafield nuclear flask train. The trailing load of this service, which included an 'MoD' flask near the rear of the train, obtained some pleasing exhaust as the locomotives accelerated away from a signal check. English Damside, Carlisle City Centre on 15th July 2011.

57004 began life in March 1965 as D1828 in the Toton (D16) District. It has carried dual-green, BR Blue and Railfreight liveries, being converted to a class 57 with General Motors traction for Freightiner in March 1999. It was the first Class 57 to be scrapped. moving from LSL Crewe to a Stafford scrapyard on 5th July 2023, the stripped bodyshell then being immediately disposed of.

57008 began life as D1644 in December 1964 and was allocated to Newport Ebbw Junction. It has carried dual-green, BR Blue. Railfreight and Freightliner (Railfreight grey) liveries before conversion to General Motors class 57 in December 1999 with Freightliner. As 47060 it also carried the name 'Halewood Silver Jubilee 1988' between 1988 and 1995. Surplus to DRS' requirements, it was acquired by WCRC in early 2022.

In 2007 Freightliner started to replace its Class 57s with new Class 66 locos. Initially six Class 57s (the second batch) were returned to their leasing company, and were redeployed with DRS in July 2007. Direct Rail Services owned nine examples of the class, comprising 57002 (47322), 57003 (47317), 57004 (47347), 57007 (47332), 57008 (47060), 57009 (47079), 57010 (47231), 57011 (47329), 57012 (47204). These locomotives worked alongside the Class 20/3s, 37's and 66's which were also operated by the company then. All the 57's were painted in the DRS 'Compass' Blue livery.

© Gordon Edgar - All rights reserved. Please do not use my images without my explicit permission

G-Model

Bonhams : The Autumn Sale 2020

Estimated : € 40.000 - 60.000

Unsold

Autoworld

www.autoworld.be

Brussels - Belgium

September 2020

Porsche revived the evocative Carrera name - previously used for the competition orientated versions of the preceding 356 model - for its luxuriously equipped, top-of-the-range 911 in 1973, applying the title to all 911 variants, co-incidentally with the introduction of the 3.2-litre engine, from the start of the 1984 model year. The revived name was part of a major revamp of the long-running 911, now selling better than ever, development of which had slowed while Porsche concentrated on meeting the ever increasing demand.

Although it remained an air-cooled 'flat six', the '3.2' motor was 80% new and incorporated an effective cam chain tensioner and associated lubrication system that at last addressed a perennial 911 shortcoming. An ECU controlled the fuel and ignition systems for the first time on a 911, enabling the engine to be both more powerful and less thirsty. As a result, this enlarged and extensively revised power plant now produced 231bhp, 27 horsepower up on its predecessor, endowing the Carrera with a level of performance approaching that of the original 911 Turbo of 1974, the bald statistics being a 0-60mph time of 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 152mph (244km/h) with 100mph (160km/h) reachable in a breathtaking 13.6 seconds.

No major changes were made to the bodyshell, though there was a new front spoiler with integral fog lamps, while the number of models on offer remained at three: Coupé, Targa and Cabriolet. Thirty-plus years on, Carrera 3.2s are now highly sought after and for very good reason, though finding one is not that easy.

Finished in grey with black leather interior, this Carrera 3.2 was delivered new in Düsseldorf, Germany equipped with the optional sunroof and rear wing, and is said to be standard apart from a larger-diameter sports exhaust system. The car comes with its Porsche service booklet recording maintenance by official Porsche dealers and independent specialists recognised by Porsche, testifying to the fact that it has been very well cared for. The Car Pass records the odometer reading as 245,000 kilometres and the Porsche also comes with Belgian Certificat d'Immatriculation, valid Contrôle Technique, three keys, and a car cover.

Originally Charles Roberts & Company's wagon works was located at Horbury Junction southeast of Horbury, West Yorkshire, England. It became part of the Procor group in the 1970s as Procor Engineering Ltd. and, subsequently, part of Bombardier Inc.'s European railway businesses in 1990 as Bombardier Prorail, closing in 2005.

the plant produced bodyshells for the British Rail Class 60 during the Procor period, and British Rail Class 92 during Bombardier's ownership. During the Second World War the factory was involved in the production of the Churchill Tank.

The plant was involved in the passenger vehicle construction and refurbishment. In the 1950s tram bodies were constructed for Blackpool Tramways 'Coronation Cars', and Sheffield Tramways. In the early 2000s Bombardier Voyager trains were built at Horbury and at Bombardier's BN plant in Bruges, Belgium. Refurbishment of GNER's Mark 4 coach fleet took place at Horbury in the mid-2000s.

At a glance: technical highlights* of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Aluminium spaceframe: this design realised for the first time by Mercedes-Benz combines intelligent lightweight construction with great strength – thereby supporting the outstanding driving dynamics of the SLS AMG. The bodyshell weighs a mere 241 kilograms.

Standard

Adaptive front airbags: the front airbags can deploy in two stages, depending on the severity of the impact.

Standard

Aerodynamic balance: the SLS AMG combines optimum handling stability with a low drag coefficient and low wind noise.

Standard

AMG alubeam silver: this new process - a world first - makes the paint finish shine like liquid metal, with specific light reflections that give even more life to the painted surface. Thius effect is made possible by microscopic, 30 to 50-nanometer small pigment particles.

Optional

AMG DRIVE UNIT: integrated into this are the rotary control for the transmission modes, the engine starter button and keys for the ESP® functions, the AMG memory function and the extendable rear aerofoil.

Standard

Bi-xenon headlamps: gas-discharge lamps for low and main beam improve safety at night.

Standard

Carbon-fibre drive shaft: as in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class DTM racing touring cars, the drive shaft is of carbon-fibre. Although the shaft has to transfer 650 newton metres of torque from the engine to the double-declutch transmission, it weighs only 4.7 kilograms.

Standard

Differential lock: the mechanical multi-plate differential lock ensures improved traction in any road conditions.

Standard

Diffusor: integrated into the rear bumper, the diffusor directs the airflow from the underfloor upwards, acting together with the aerofoil to prevent unwanted uplift at the rear axle.

Standard

Double-declutch transmission: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7‑speed sports transmission has four driving modes including the RACE START function. Other attributes: fast gearshift response with virtually no interruption in tractive power, a tailor-made control strategy and increased gearshifting comfort.

Standard

Double wishbone suspension: with this technology familiar from motor racing, the wheel location and suspension functions are separate.

Standard

E-SELECT lever: its shape is reminiscent of a jet plane's thrust control. The driver is conveniently able to change between R, N and D by touch-control of the drive-by-wire system.

Standard

3-stage ESP®: the three modes "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" are available at the touch of a button.

Standard

Flow-formed light-alloy wheels: the manufacturing process allows lower wall thicknesses in the area of the rim base, while improving long-term rigidity. The weight saving versus conventional light-alloy wheels is around 1.1 kilograms per wheel.

Standard

Gullwing doors: with an opening angle of 70 degrees, the unique gullwing doors allow convenient access and egress.

Standard

Front-mid-engine: the AMG V8 engine installed behind the front axle provides the ideal conditions for perfect handling dynamics, with precise self-steering characteristics, first-class agility, low inertia during fast directional changes and outstanding traction.

Standard

Generator management: whenever the engine is on the overrun, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery rather than being uselessly converted to heat in the usual way. Conversely, the generator is switched to load-free mode when accelerating, which relieves the engine load. The result is a reduction in fuel consumption.

Standard

Smooth underbody: the almost completely panelled underbody reduces aerodynamic drag and helps to avoid uplift at the rear axle.

Standard

Rear aerofoil: attractively integrated into the boot lid, the aerofoil extends at 120 km/h aus and avoids unwanted uplift at the rear axle.

Standard

High-performance composite braking system: with this composite technology derived from motor racing, the grey cast iron discs are mounted on an aluminium bowl. This ensures perfect heat conduction and first-class fade resistance even in the gruelling conditions of the racetrack.

Standard

LED gearshift indicator: seven LEDs coloured white, yellow and red indicate the need for an upshift if the SLS AMG driver has selected the manual transmission mode and the engine speed is approaching its maximum.

Standard

High-performance ceramic composite braking system: by virtue of their greater hardness, the ceramic brake discs have even higher temperature resistance, and also contribute the benefits of 40 percent less weight.

Optional

Kneebag: in the event of a frontal impact, an additional airbag can help to protect the legs of the vehicle occupants.

Standard

Twin-wire arc spray coating (LDS): the advantages of this technology patented and exclusively used by AMG are extremely low friction and wear, as well as long-term durability of the cylinder walls.

Standard

Magnesium backrests: the backrests of the sports seats are of magnesium, a high-tech material that excels with low weight and high strength. This has considerable advantages in terms of the weight balance and a lower centre of gravity.

Standard

Matt paint finishes: with their matt silk surface, "designo magno allanite grey" and "AMG monza grey magno" reinforce the sporty character of the Gullwing model through specific contouring of the crease lines.

Optional

Performance suspension: with an approx. ten percent stiffer spring setup and 30 percent stiffer damper setup, the Performance suspension is recommended for the racetrack.

Optional

Forged pistons: the eight forged pistons of the AMG M159 engine weight a total of 0.5 kilograms less than the cast pistons of the basic M156 engine.

Standard

Forged wheels: forged AMG light-alloy wheels are 14 percent lighter than the Flow Forming wheels fitted as standard, thereby reducing the unsprung mases even further.

Optional

Tubular steel exhaust headers: with their precisely coordinated tube lengths, these improve the gas cycles for a considerable increase in output and torque. These exhaust headers are another technology borrowed from motor sports.

Standard

Superplastic forming: this enables multi-part components to be dispensed with during the production process for the outer door skin and interior. This not only saves weight, but also simplifies the production process.

Standard

Surround sound system: the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1 provides an exclusive listening experience at the highest level. The system has an amplifier with a total output of 1000 watts, 11 loudspeakers and a digital sound processor.

Optional

Transaxle arrangement: locating the double-declutch transmission at the rear axle allows a weight distribution of 47 percent (front) and 53 percent (rear) which benefits handling dynamics.

Standard

Dry sump lubrication: this technology derived from motor racing allows a lower installed position for the V8 engine. As a positive side-effect, the engine is reliably lubricated even under the high lateral acceleration encountered on the racetrack.

Standard

Topology optimisation: the cast components of the aluminium spaceframe are specifically weight-optimised: ribbed structures precisely follow the force paths, and wall thicknesses are reduced to a minimum in less highly stressed areas.

Standard

Torque tube: this forms a rigid connection between the engine and transmission, ensuring the best possible transfer of forces.

Standard

Ultra-high strength, hot-formed steel: this is used in the A‑pillars to improve occupant safety even further.

Standard

Four-way lumbar supports: these provide the driver and passenger with effective lower back support.

Optional

Two-zone seat cushions: prominent side bolsters with a harder foam filling provide optimal lateral support, while the inner areas of the seat cushion and backrest are softer for a high level of comfort on long journeys.

Standard

The Jaguar XJ (XJ40) is a luxury sedan manufactured by Jaguar Cars between 1986 and 1994. Officially unveiled on 8 October 1986 it was an all-new redesign of the XJ to replace the Series III, although the two model ranges were sold concurrently until the Series III was discontinued in 1992. The XJ40 used the Jaguar independent rear suspension arrangement, and featured a number of technological enhancements (such as electronic instrumentation)

Development:

Throughout the 1970s Jaguar had been developing "Project XJ40", which was an all-new model intended to replace the original XJ6. Scale models were being built as early as 1972. Due to the 1973 oil crisis and problems at parent company British Leyland, the car was continually delayed. Proposals from both Jaguar's in-house designers and Pininfarina were received. Eventually, it was decided an internal design would be carried through to production and, in February 1981, the British Leyland board approved £80 million to produce the new car.

Jaguar historians claim that the XJ40 was the last car which company founder Sir William Lyons had contributed to during its protracted development phase. The previous generation XJ had been the final Jaguar to be developed wholly under Lyons' leadership - although he continued to take an active consultative role within Jaguar design, long after had retired from the day to day management of the firm following its merger in 1966 with the British Motor Corporation.

During development, the XJ40 pioneered significant improvements to the way Jaguar designed, built, and assembled cars. Among these improvements was a 25 per cent reduction in the number of bodywork panels required per car (e.g. three pressings needed for a Series 3 door compared with one for a XJ40 door), resulting in not only a more efficient assembly process, but also a weight saving and a stiffer structure. Greater attention to panel gaps improved the drag factor (reduced from 0.849 Cd to 0.762 Cd), while also improving the fuel economy and lowering wind noise inside the cabin.

Mechanicals:

AJ6 4.0 L engine (in a 1990 Daimler)

Initially, only two engines were offered across the XJ40 models: a 2.9 L and a 3.6 L version of the AJ6 inline-six. In 1990, these were changed to 3.2 L and 4.0 L versions. In 1993, the XJ12 and Daimler Double Six (both equipped with the Jaguar V12 engine) were added to the available models.

During the development of the XJ40, British Leyland had considered providing the Rover V8 engine for the car, which would have eliminated the need for future Jaguar engine production. The XJ40 bodyshell was allegedly engineered to prevent fitting V-configuration engines such as the Rover V8; this delayed the introduction of the V12-powered XJ12 until 1993.

The automatic gearbox used in the 2.9 L, 3.2 L and 3.6 L six-cylinder cars was the four-speed ZF 4HP22. On the 4.0 L, the four-speed ZF 4HP24 was used. A stronger automatic gearbox was required for the V12-equipped cars, and the four-speed GM 4L80-E was selected. The manual gearbox fitted to early cars was the five-speed Getrag 265, while later cars received the Getrag 290.

The automatic transmission selector was redesigned to allow the manual selection of forward gears without accidentally selecting neutral or reverse. This new feature was dubbed the "J-Gate" and has carried over to more recent Jaguar models.

Exterior:

The curvaceous lines of the outgoing Series XJ were replaced by the more angular, geometric shape of the XJ40. The nose of the car would accommodate either matched pairs of round headlights, or rectangular single units; the latter were fitted to the higher-specification Sovereign and Daimler trim levels, and also to all cars for the US market.

The bumper is a visually distinct black-rubber-covered bar that runs the full width of the car and incorporates the sidelights and indicator lights. The bonnet is hinged at the front. Window frames are either chromed or black, depending on model. Rain gutters, door mirrors, and door handles are also finished in chrome. All XJ40s have a chrome surround for the windscreen and a single windscreen wiper.

Early low-specification cars were fitted with metric-sized steel wheels and plastic wheelcovers. From 1991, the wheels were changed to non-metric sizing.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This Lego miniland-scale 1986 Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40) has been created for Flickr LUGNuts 85th Build Challenge, - "Like, Totally 80s", - for vehicles created during the decade of the 1980s.

Ford Thames 300E Van (1954-61) Engine 1172cc S4 SV Production 196885

Registration Number WXR 859

Fleet Number London Transport 1096F

FORD UK SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623665118181...

Based on Fords Anglia/Prefect 100E Saloons and sharing a bodyshell 100E Station Wagon. Powered by a Ford 1172 cc engine originally only in 5 cwt the range was later expanded to include standard and deluxe variants of a 7 cwt van.

This van was supplied directly to London Transport from Daggenham Motors, Alperton, priced at £ 365 and given fleet number 1096F in June 1959 and was delivered to the Central Distribution Works as one of a batch of thirteen identical vehicles and allocated service vehicle fleet numbers 1088F – 1100F.

Assigned early July 1959, from Central Distribution to Lillie Bridge depot near Fulham and allocated to the Signals Engineers, remaining there until withdrawn from service at the beginning of December 1964. The unlicensed vehicle was then sold to a Mr C W Borgust of Shooters Hill, London, SW3 for private use.

Obtained and restored by Mr N Anscombe and returned to the distinctive Chiswick Green service vehicle livery, the van was donated to the Trust and arrived at the Museum during May 1998.

Shot at Brooklands New Years Day meeting 01:01:2013 REF 90-156

Fiat 131 Abarth Rallye (1976) Engine 1995cc S4 DOHC

Race Number 129 Neil Cotty (Colworth)

Registration Number N 84451 (Torino)

Production 400

FIAT ALBUM

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623665060711...

The first series Fiat 131 was introduced at the 55th Turin Motor Show in late October 1974 The 131 came with a choice of a 1,297 cc or 1,585 cc OHV inline-four engines, both from the engine family first introduced on the Fiat 124. Both engines were fitted with a single twin-choke Weber 32 ADF downdraught carburettor. A four-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed torque converter automatic optional on the 1600 engine only. The initial range comprised eleven different models with three body styles 2 door and 4 door Saloons and an Estate car.

In 1976, 400 examples of the Fiat Abarth 131 Rally were built for homologation purposes These cars were built in a cooperation between Fiat, Bertone and Abarth. Bertone took part-completed two door standard bodyshells from the production line in Mirafiori, fitted plastic mudguards front and rear, a plastic bonnet and bootlid and modified the metal structure to accept the independent rear suspension. The cars were fully painted and trimmed and then delivered back to the Fiat special Rivalta plant where they received the Abarth mechanicals. The street version of the car used a 16-valve DOHC derivative of the standard DOHC engine, which equipped with a double Weber downdraught carburettor produced 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp). The street cars used the standard gearbox with no synchromesh (Rally type regulations required the use of the same type of synchromesh on the competition cars as on the street versions) and the hopelessly underdimensioned brake system of the small Fiat 127. Competition cars used dry sump lubrication and eventually Kugelfischer mechanical fuel injection. In race specifications, the engine produced up to 240 PS (180 kW) in 1980, being driven to World Championship status by Walter Röhrl.

The Fiat 131 Abarth was a very successful rally car winning the World Rally Championship 1977, 1978 and 1980 with Markku Allen, Timo Salonen and Walter Rohl at the wheel. Between 1976-81 the Fiat 131 Abarth won 18 WRC rally events.

Diolch am 82,799,995 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

Thanks for 82,799,995 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

Shot 17.07.2021 at Shelsey Walsh (Classic Nostalgia), Worcestershire 147-070

A series of photographs documenting the release of GB Railfreight's Class 92, 92 044 "Couperin" from the Wabtec Brush works at Loughborough. 044 had spent exactly 14 months there for overhaul, reliability mods and new wheelsets. The assisting locomotive was a fellow Brush Traction machine, Class 60, 60 002 "Graham Farish 50th Anniversary 1970-2020".

The 60 had also been out of traffic for more than a year after a turbo fire. The Covid-19 pandemic had delayed repairs and then some additional mods were done as well as its immaculate repaint - the first GBRf loco repainted at DB Cargo's Toton depot.

This was the 60's first working for GBRf after its long spell in Toton and also its first run on the main line sporting its recently received new name commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Graham Farish.

This was also the first time two of GB Railfreight's Brush "cousins" - the Class 60 and Class 92 - had been together. The locos share a common bodyshell design, built by Procor in Wakefield, and have other similar components.

Potentially most historically of all, though - with the subsequent announcement the Brush Traction works are due to close by the end of the year - there's a good chance this was the last time a Class 60 will visit the place where the 100-strong class were built in 1989-1993.

GB's sole active grey 92 had lost its tunnel rings and Crewe Electric depot plaques whilst in Brush, but there are rumours of a new livery to come in due course. However, that won't be before it gets back to earning some coin for its owners (and DB!) with a brief visit to Crewe for a test run, before heading to Dollands Moor to resume tunnel duties.

60 002 ran from Toton as 0Z60 08:45 Toton TMD to Loughborough Brush, then moved 92 044 to Crewe ETD on 0Z61 09:58 Loughborough Brush to Crewe ETD, before the 60 then ran on solo to resume biomass duties on 0Z62 13:09 Crewe ETD to Tuebrook Sidings.

Fiat 131 Abarth Rallye (1977) Engine 1995cc S4 DOHC

Registration Number NBL 35 P (Reading)

Production 400

FIAT SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623665060711...

The first series Fiat 131 was introduced at the 55th Turin Motor Show in late October 1974 The 131 came with a choice of a 1,297 cc or 1,585 cc OHV inline-four engines, both from the engine family first introduced on the Fiat 124. Both engines were fitted with a single twin-choke Weber 32 ADF downdraught carburettor. A four-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed torque converter automatic optional on the 1600 engine only. The initial range comprised eleven different models with three body styles 2 door and 4 door Saloons and an Estate car.

In 1976, 400 examples of the Fiat Abarth 131 Rally were built for homologation purposes These cars were built in a cooperation between Fiat, Bertone and Abarth. Bertone took part-completed two door standard bodyshells from the production line in Mirafiori, fitted plastic mudguards front and rear, a plastic bonnet and bootlid and modified the metal structure to accept the independent rear suspension. The cars were fully painted and trimmed and then delivered back to the Fiat special Rivalta plant where they received the Abarth mechanicals. The street version of the car used a 16-valve DOHC derivative of the standard DOHC engine, which equipped with a double Weber downdraught carburettor produced 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp). The street cars used the standard gearbox with no synchromesh (Rally type regulations required the use of the same type of synchromesh on the competition cars as on the street versions) and the hopelessly underdimensioned brake system of the small Fiat 127. Competition cars used dry sump lubrication and eventually Kugelfischer mechanical fuel injection. In race specifications, the engine produced up to 240 PS (180 kW) in 1980, being driven to World Championship status by Walter Röhrl.

The Fiat 131 Abarth was a very successful rally car winning the World Rally Championship 1977, 1978 and 1980 with Markku Allen, Timo Salonen and Walter Rohl at the wheel. Between 1976-81 the Fiat 131 Abarth won 18 WRC rally events.

Many Thanks for a fan'dabi'dozi 30,986,600 views

Shot 167.11.2014 at The National Exhibition Centre, Classic and Sportscar Show Ref 103-425

n° 56 of 100

Bonhams

Les Grandes Marques du Monde à Paris

The Grand Palais Éphémère

Place Joffre

Parijs - Paris

Frankrijk - France

February 2023

Estimated : € 60.000 - 90.000

Sold for € 63.250

Introduced at the Geneva Salon in March 1999, the DB7 Vantage was no mere high-performance version of the existing six-cylinder DB7 but an exciting new model powered by a state-of-the-art, all-alloy V12 engine, the first of this configuration to power a production Aston Martin. This 6-litre, quad-cam, 48-valve unit produced 420bhp and 400lb/ft of torque while meeting all current and projected emissions regulations, while there was a choice of two alternative transmissions: a new six-speed manual or ZF five-speed automatic with manually selectable ratios (Touchtronic). A top speed of 185mph was claimed for the Vantage coupé, 165mph for the Vantage Volante convertible.

To accommodate the new engine/transmission package, the existing DB7 bodyshell was re-engineered, acquiring a new frontal structure and an enlarged transmission tunnel. The result was a torsionally stiffer structure that exceeded all contemporary crash test requirements. Both front and rear suspension arrangements were developed specifically for this new model, incorporating revised linkages and special Bilstein shock absorbers. The 18" diameter wheels too were unique to the Vantage, which also featured cross-drilled and ventilated Brembo brakes and Teves electronic four-channel ABS.

The Vantage's introduction was the culmination of two years intensive development and testing that included hundreds of thousands of miles covered in climatic conditions ranging from arctic to desert, as well as continuous 30-day accelerated durability tests at MIRA. Notwithstanding all the DB7 Vantage's high tech attributes, its makers had not lost sight of customer expectations of what constituted an Aston Martin. Thus the Vantage's hand crafted interior featured traditional Connolly hide upholstery, and could be trimmed and equipped to an individual buyer's personal requirements. All the usual luxury appurtenances came as standard while clients could choose from an extensive list of options that included satellite navigation, fitted luggage and parking sensors.

This left-hand drive, automatic transmission DB7 Vantage Volante is one of only 55 Anniversary Edition cars, all finished in Slate Blue, built to celebrate the end of the model's production. The car was sold (it is believed new) to the current vendor on February 2005 by Aston Martin Antwerp.

Currently displaying a total of only 18,323 kilometres on the odometer, the car is offered with a Belgian registration document and copies of the original purchase invoice and manufacturer's Certificate of Conformity. A rare opportunity to acquire an example of what was once the ultimate soft-top Aston Martin for a fraction of the original €147,620 as-delivered price.

Firstly let me beg forgiveness for position of the telegraph pole! I couldn't quite get the shot I wanted here as the sun was on the wrong side. I did take another from the other but with predictable results. The intention had been to include Mow Cop and the Cheshire Plane, however, as I was short of time, I just had to make do with the latter ... and the telegraph pole. This record shot was taken in Chester Road, Talke Pits (sort of) on the way back from MoT test in the week. This little Dennis Javelin has it's Plaxton Premier coach bodyshell kitted out as a service bus, a type referred to as an Interurban. It still carries it's Orkney Coaches branding as a reminder of it's final Stagecoach posting. Quite a bit of beautifying went into it's preparation as it was certainly showing signs of having stood for the best part of a year in an unsympathetic climate .

Tribute Motors Z300S Barchetta Engine 2793cc S6

Registration Number MIG 3204 (County Fermanagh)

TRIBUTE MOTORS ALBUM

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/albums/72157692216239661/

The Z300S is a body kit produced by Tribute Motorsof Dorset which has been designed to fit a BMW Z3. The GRP kit is described as a straight forward replacement of body panels and addition of cover panels to a BMW Z3 bodyshell, and can be fitted to any model and any year of the Z3. The conversion retains the full monocoque bodyshell, running gear doors and glass of the donor vehicle. and is exempt from IVA..

In the case of this vehicle the dornor vehicle was a BMW Z3 2.8i of 1998

Tribute Motors

www.tributeautomotive.co.uk/z300s.html

Many thanks for a fantabulous 32,680,500 views

Shot on 01.01.2015 at Brooklands New Years Day Classic Car Gathering Ref 104-192

Often described as Britain's first supercar (a little late, Italy beat us to that like 5 years earlier!), but the Aston Martin V8 and the derivative Vantage helped keep the company afloat during those dark years of bankruptcy and recovery, even though it almost committed corporate suicide by developing the overly complicated Lagonda!

The original Aston Martin V8 was a coupé manufactured from 1969 to 1989, built to replace the Aston Martin DBS, a more angular car that killed off the DB6, and by extension the iconic design that had eminated through the James Bond DB5. As with all traditional Aston Martins, it was entirely handbuilt, with each car requiring 1,200 manhours to finish. Aston Martin's customers had been clamouring for an eight-cylinder car for years, so Aston Martin designed a larger car. The engine was not ready, however, so in 1967 the company released the DBS with the straight-six Vantage engine from the DB6. Two years later, Tadek Marek's V8 was ready, and Aston released the DBS V8. With the demise of the straight-six Vantage in 1973, the DBS V8, now restyled and called simply the Aston Martin V8, became the company's mainstream car for nearly two decades. It was retired in favour of the Virage in 1989.

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage on the other hand took the original bodyshell of this 60's sports coupé, and completely re-engineered it to create something that was not of this earth! The first series had 375hp, and series specific details such as a blanked bonnet vent and a separate rear spoiler, of which 38 of these were built.

The Vantage name had previously been used on a number of high-performance versions of Aston Martin cars, but this was a separate model. Although based on the Aston Martin V8, numerous detail changes added up to a unique driving experience. One of the most noticeable features was the closed-off hood bulge rather than the open scoop found on the normal V8. The grille area was also closed off, with twin driving lights inserted and a spoiler added to the bootlid.

Upon its introduction in 1977, the car's incredible speed and power was taken up with acclaim, and, as mentioned, was dubbed 'Britain's first supercar', with a top speed of 170 mph top speed. Its engine was shared with the Lagonda, but it used high-performance camshafts, increased compression ratio, larger inlet valves and bigger carburettors mounted on new manifolds for increased output. Straight-line performance was the best of the day, with acceleration from 0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds, one-tenth of a second quicker than the Ferrari Daytona.

The Oscar India version, introduced in late 1978, featured an integrated tea-tray spoiler and smoother bonnet bulge. Inside, a black leather-covered dash replaced the previous walnut. The wooden dashboard did find its way back into the Vantage during the eighties, giving a more luxurious appearance. The Oscar India version also received a slight increase in power, to 390hp. This line was produced, with some running changes, until 1989. From 1986 the engine had 403hp.

1986 saw the introduction of X-Pack was a further upgrade, with Cosworth pistons and Nimrod racing-type heads producing 403hp. A big bore after-market option was also available from Works Service, with 50mm carbs and straight-through exhaust system giving 432hp, the same engine as fitted to the limited-edition V8 Zagato. 16-inch wheels were also now fitted. A 450hp 6.3L version was also available from Aston Martin, and independent manufacturers offered a 7L version just to up the ante.

In 1986, the Vantage had its roof cut off into what would become the convertible Vantage Volante, basically identical. In 1987 The Prince of Wales took delivery of a Vantage Volante, but at his request without the production car's wider wheelarches, front air dam and side skirts. This became known as the 'Prince of Wales Spec' (or POW) and around another 26 such cars were built by the factory.

The Prince was obviously very specific about his motorcars!

304 Series 2 Vantage coupés were built, including 131 X-Packs and 192 Volantes. Volante's are often considered the most desirable of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage range. In all, 534 V8 Vantages were constructed during its 12 year production run, with the car being replaced in 1989 by the Aston Martin Virage, as well as a new generation V8 Vantage which remained somewhat faithful to the original design of the 60's (if not a little more bulky) and was the last Aston Martin design to incorporate a traditional style before changing to the style laid down by the DB7 in 1993.

However, the Vantage did find its way into movie fame as the first Aston Martin used in a James Bond movie since the DBS used in On Her Majesty's Secret Service in 1969. In 1987's 'The Living Daylights' (the first film to star Timothy Dalton as 007), Bond was treated to Q-Branch's Aston Martin V8 Vantage, complete with missiles, lasers to separate pesky Lada's from their chassis, and a heads-up display to assist in warding off evildoers. It also came with a 'Winter Pack', which included skis, a rocket propulsion and spiked tyres for better grip. The car however met an unfortunate demise after getting stuck in a snowdrift, forcing Bond to activate the self-destruct, engulfing the car in a fiery explosion. But at least everyone's favourite secret agent had finally been reunited with his faithful Aston Martin once again!

There is some slight incongruity with the film though, as at the beginning of the movie, the car is a convertible Volante, yet for the rest of the movie it's a hardtop regular Vantage. This confused me somewhat, or perhaps whilst Bond had the car shipped he had a roof welded on in the meantime!

Today there are a fair number of Vantages roaming the countryside, their popular design, pedigree Bond Car status and sheer raw power keeping them truly afloat. In fact, these cars are much more prominent than the Virage that replaced it, of which you barely see any!

Audi TT Coupe (1st Gen Facelift) (1998-06) Engine 1761cc S4 20v Turbo

Registration Number DE 54 SYJ (Chester)

AUDI SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623635550501...

The Audi TT is a 2-door production sports car made by Audi since 1998, and currently in its fourth generation. For each of its three generations, the TT has been available as a 2+2 coupé and as a two-seater roadster employing consecutive generations of the Volkswagen Group A platform, starting with the A4 (PQ34). As a result of this platform-sharing, the Audi TT has identical powertrain and suspension layouts as its related platform-mates; including a front-mounted transversely oriented engine, front-wheel drive or quattro four-wheel drive system, and fully independent front suspension using MacPherson struts. The first two generations were assembled by the Audi subsidiary Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. in Győr, Hungary, using bodyshells manufactured and painted at Audi's Ingolstadt plant

The first generation was designed by Peter Schreyer, and Walter de'Silva and was launched as a coupé in September 1998, followed by a roadster in August 1999.n the Volkswagen Group A4 (PQ34) platform which it shared with the Volkswagen Golf Mk.4, Audi A3 (Mk.1) and the Skoda Octavia. It was first available with a 1.8-litre inline four-cylinder 20-valve turbocharged engine in two states of tune with outputs of 178 and 222hp The original four-cylinder engine range was complemented with a 3,189 cc (3.2 L; 194.6 cu in) VR6 engine of 247hp

Thankyou for a massive 54,622,883 views

Shot 03.07.2016 at Cars in the Park, Beacon Park, Lichfield REF 121-066

The second-generation Volkswagen Golf (also known as the Typ 19E until the 1991 model year, and Typ 1G thereafter) was launched in Europe at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1983, with sales beginning in its homeland and most other left-hand drive markets soon after. It debuted in March 1984 on the right-hand drive British market, and it was introduced as a 1985 model in the United States. It featured a larger bodyshell, and a wider range of engine options.

During the life of the Golf MK2, there were a number of external style revisions. Notable changes to the looks of the Golf MK2 included the removal of quarterlight windows in the front doors, and the introduction of larger grille slats with the August 1987 facelift. The most notable was the introduction of so-called "Big Bumpers", which were introduced in the European market with an August 1989 facelift.

The successful Golf GTI (or, in the US, simply "GTI") was continued with the Mk2 as a sporty 3- or 5-door hatchback. Like late Mk1 GTIs, it featured a naturally aspirated Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injected 1,781 cc (1.8 L; 108.7 cu in) Inline-four engine developing 112 PS (82.4 kW; 110.5 hp). In 1986 (1987 for North America) a Golf GTI 16V was introduced; here the 1.8 litre engine output was 139 PS (137 hp; 102 kW) at 6,100 rpm (or 129 metric horsepower (95 kW) for the catalyst version) and 168 newton metres (124 lbf⋅ft) at 4,600 rpm of torque,[6] the model was marked by discreet red-and-black "16V" badges front and rear. US/Canadian GTIs were later equipped with 2.0, 16-valve engines, available in the Passat and Corrado outside North America. In 1990, like the Golf, the GTI was given a facelift, and the "Big Bumper" became standard on all GTIs.

Being October, which had always been the LUGNuts anniversary month, this Mk2 VW Golf GTi has been built to the 42nd challenge theme 'Autos aus Deutschland'.

Estimated : CHF 70.000 - 100.000

Sold for CHF 66.700 - € 60.597

The Bonmont Sale

Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams

Golf & Country Club de Bonmont

Chéserex

Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz

September 2019

Porsche's long-running and much loved 911 sports car first appeared at the 1963 Frankfurt Show as the '901', but shortly after production proper commenced in 1964 had become the '911' following Peugeot's complaints about the use of '0' model numbers. The preceding Type 356's rear-engined layout was retained but the 911 switched to unitary construction for the bodyshell and dropped the 356's VW-based suspension in favour of a more modern McPherson strut and trailing arm arrangement. In its first incarnation, Porsche's single-overhead-camshaft, air-cooled flat six engine displaced 1,991cc and produced 130bhp; progressively enlarged and developed, it would eventually grow to more than 3.0 litres and, in turbo-charged form, put out well over 300 horsepower.

The first of countless upgrades to the perennial 911 came in 1966, two years after production had commenced, with the introduction of the 911S, which featured stylish Fuchs five-spoked alloy wheels and a heavily revised and more powerful engine. Improved handling courtesy of a lengthened wheelbase arrived in 1969 and then in 1970 the 911's air-cooled, flat six engine underwent the first of many enlargements - to 2.2 litres. By this time the models on offer had stabilised at three: the entry-level 911T, middle-ranking 911E and top-of-the-range 911S, all of which were available as either a closed coupé or Targa convertible. With the 2.2-litre engine's arrival, a common type of cylinder head was adopted, the differing power outputs being determined principally by valve timing rather than valve sizes as had been the case hitherto. In 1972 all 911 variants received the 2,341cc (nominally 2.4-litre) unit, which in 'E' specification produced a maximum of 165bhp.

According to the vendor, this delightful Porsche 911E Targa had been comprehensively restored by Harald Brandner of BMC Classics in Florida, USA in 2011/2012. When the car arrived in Europe, the engine was again thoroughly overhauled by renowned specialist Tobias Nussbaumer of Flat Six Cars in Basel. Since then it has seen only sporadic use in good weather only. Finished in grey with grey/black interior, this extensively restored 2.4-litre 911 is offered with Swiss Carte Grise; MFK document; and assorted invoices, correspondence, and photographs relating to its restoration.

Jaguar Bodyshell for a Lightweight E Type Restoration

Northern Rail 150273 leads a Northern Rail class 153 as they head for Leeds at Stourton, 2nd June 2011. 150273 is one of the final batch of eighty five two-car class 150 units which were built at York works in 1986/87 with front-end gangway connections and numbered in the range 150201-285. They had different interiors to the earlier class 150/1 units and were used on longer-distance services. The end gangways make them very similar in appearance to later batches of the electric class 317 units, also based on the Mark III bodyshell. 150273 was initially allocated to Cardiff however it is now allocated to Newton Heath.

In ex-works South Western Trains livery, Class 442 'Wessex' 2416 was arriving at New Milton with the 07.41 Poole to London Waterloo service on May 30th 1998. Utilising the BR Mk.3 bodyshell, the fleet of 24 x 5-Car Class 442's were built at Derby Litchurch Lane and were new in 1987/1988. Used on the South Western main line until 2007, the units subsequently had a chaotic existence with use on Southern and Gatwick Express, then some being refurbished for use with South Western Railway in 2019, but never entering service due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The fleet was withdrawn in 2021 and most of the sets were subsequently scrapped. 2416 was stripped for spare parts at Wolverton Works in January 2021 and scrapped in June 2021.

LOCATION:- Derby Litchurch Lane

DATE:- 18.06.2001

'Networker Classic' prototype, what would of been the BR class 424 seen here stored at Litchurch Ln Works in Derby.

This vehicle was originally a 4-CIG driving trailer 76112. The "Networker Classic" concept involved rebuilding Mark 1 design Southern Region EMUs of Classes 411, 421 and 423 to meet current crash-worthiness standards. This involved building a new bodyshell on the existing chassis, but keeping the original electrical and motor equipment. Therefore, the aim was to produce a 'new' unit at one quarter the cost of manufacturing a train from scratch. The rebuilt units would have had a life of at least fifteen years, thus saving considerable amounts of money when replacing old stock. However, for some reason the project was not successful, and train companies turned to new-build trains of Classes 375, 376, 377, 444, 450, 458, and 460 from various manufacturers.

Fiat began designing the Ritmo hatchback – as a replacement for the 128 sedan – in 1972, following the body style of its 127 supermini as European manufacturers began launching small family hatchbacks, notably the Volkswagen Golf in 1974.

Prior to its launch, the press speculated that the project codename 138 would be the final production name, however, Fiat instead gave its new car the Ritmo name, rather than another three digit number. Offered in 3- and 5-door hatchback and cabriolet body styles – from 1978 to 1988 with two facelifts.

The Ritmo was manufactured at the Cassino plant using a system developed by its subsidiary Comau, the "Robogate" system – which automated the bodyshell assembly and welding process using robots, giving rise to its advertising slogan "Handbuilt by robots", immortalised in a television advertising campaign showing the robots assembling the Ritmo bodyshells to the strains of Rossini's The Barber of Seville. The exterior has plastic bumper fascias integrated into the styling which combined strong round shapes with overall sharp lines, achieving a drag coefficient of Cd=0.38.

The Maserati Merak, introduced in 1972, was essentially a junior version of the Maserati Bora. The first Merak was designed during the Citroën era (1968-1975), the Merak featured a 3.0 L Maserati V6 (190 hp), also used in the Citroën SM. The mid-engine Merak used the Bora bodyshell, but with the extra space offered by the smaller engine used to carve out a second row of seats, suitable for children or very small adults. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati_Merak)

One of the earliest editions of the mighty Ford Escort, a car of humble roots that soon became an icon for so many reasons!

The Ford Escort was a small family car that was manufactured by Ford from 1968 to 2004. The Ford Escort name was also applied to several different small cars produced in North America by Ford between 1981 and 2003.The first use of the Escort name was for a reduced specification version of the Ford Squire, a 1950s estate car version of the Ford Anglia 100E, though this did not sell well by comparison to the other members of the 100E family.

The Mark I Ford Escort was introduced in the United Kingdom at the end of 1967, making its show début at Brussels Motor Show in January 1968, replacing the successful long running Anglia. The car was presented in continental Europe as a product of Ford's European operation. Escort production commenced at Halewood in England during the closing months of 1967, and for left hand drive markets during September 1968 at the Ford plant in Genk.

Initially the continental Escorts differed slightly from the UK built ones under the skin. The front suspension and steering gear were differently configured and the brakes were fitted with dual hydraulic circuits; also the wheels fitted on the Genk-built Escorts had wider rims. At the beginning of 1970, continental European production transferred to a new plant on the edge of Saarlouis, West Germany.

The Escort was a commercial success in several parts of western Europe, but nowhere more than in the UK, where the national best seller of the 1960s, BMC's Austin/Morris 1100 was beginning to show its age while Ford's own Cortina had grown, both in dimensions and in price, beyond the market niche at which it had originally been pitched. In June 1974, six years into the car's UK introduction, Ford announced the completion of the two millionth Ford Escort, a milestone hitherto unmatched by any Ford model outside the USA. It was also stated that 60% of the two million Escorts had been built in Britain. In West Germany cars were built at a slower rate of around 150,000 cars per year, slumping to 78,604 in 1974 which was the last year for the Escort Mark I.

Many of the German built Escorts were exported, notably to Benelux and Italy; from the West German domestic market perspective the car was cramped and uncomfortable when compared with the well-established and comparably priced Opel Kadett, and it was technically primitive when set against the successful imported Fiat 128 and Renault 12. Subsequent generations of the Escort made up some of the ground foregone by the original model, but in Europe's largest auto-market the Escort sales volumes always came in well behind those of the General Motors Kadett and its Astra successor.

The Escort had conventional rear-wheel drive and a four-speed manual gearbox, or 3-speed automatic transmission. The suspension consisted of MacPherson strut front suspension and a simple live axle mounted on leaf springs. The Escort was the first small Ford to use rack-and-pinion steering. The Mark I featured contemporary styling cues in tune with its time: a subtle Detroit-inspired "Coke bottle" waistline and the "dogbone" shaped front grille – arguably the car's main stylistic feature. Similar Coke bottle styling featured in the larger Cortina Mark III (also built in West Germany as the Taunus) launched in 1970.

Initially, the Escort was sold as a 2-door saloon (with circular front headlights and rubber flooring on the "De Luxe" model). The "Super" model featured rectangular headlamps, carpets, a cigar lighter and a water temperature gauge. A 2 door estate was introduced at the end of March 1968 which, with the back seat folded down, provided an impressive 40% increase in maximum load space over the old Anglia 105E estate, according to the manufacturer. The estate featured the same engine options as the saloon, but it also included a larger, 7 1⁄2-inch-diameter clutch, stiffer rear springs and in most configurations slightly larger brake drums or discs than the saloon. A panel van appeared in April 1968 and the 4-door saloon (a bodystyle the Anglia was never available in for UK market) in 1969.

Underneath the bonnet was the Kent Crossflow engine also used in the smallest capacity North American Ford Pinto. Diesel engines on small family cars were rare, and the Escort was no exception, initially featuring only petrol engines – in 1.1L, and 1.3L versions. A 940cc engine was also available in some export markets, but few were ever sold.

There was a 1300GT performance version, with a tuned 1.3L Crossflow engine with a Weber carburetor and uprated suspension. This version featured additional instrumentation with a tachometer, battery charge indicator, and oil pressure gauge. The same tuned 1.3L engine was also used in a variation sold as the Escort Sport, that used the flared front wings from the AVO range of cars, but featured trim from the more basic models. Later, an executive version of the Escort was produced known as the 1300E. This featured the same 13 inch road wheels and flared wings of the Sport, but was trimmed in an upmarket, for that time, fashion with wood trim on the dashboard and door cappings.

A higher performance version for rallies and racing was available, the Escort Twin Cam, built for Group 2 international rallying. It had an engine with a Lotus-made eight-valve twin camshaft head fitted to the 1.5L non-crossflow block, which had a bigger bore than usual to give a capacity of 1,557cc. This engine had originally been developed for the Lotus Elan. Production of the Twin Cam, which was originally produced at Halewood, was phased out as the Cosworth-engined RS1600 production began. The most famous edition of the Twin Cam was raced on behalf of Ford by Alan Mann Racing in the British Saloon Car Championship in 1968 & 1969, sporting a full Formula 2 Ford FVC 16-valve engine producing over 200hp. The Escort, driven by Australian driver Frank Gardner went on to comfortably win the 1968 Championship.

The Mark I Escorts became successful as a rally car, and they eventually went on to become one of the most successful rally cars of all time. The Ford works team was practically unbeatable in the late 1960s /early 70s, and arguably the Escort's greatest victory was in the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally being driven by Finnish legend Hannu Mikkola. This gave rise to the Escort Mexico (1.6L Crossflow-engined) special edition road versions in honour of the rally car.

In addition to the Mexico, the RS1600 was developed with 1,601cc Cosworth BDA which used a Crossflow block with a 16-valve Cosworth cylinder head, named for Belt Drive A Series. Both the Mexico and RS1600 were built at Ford's Advanced Vehicle Operations facility located at the Aveley Plant in South Essex. As well as higher performance engines and sports suspension, these models featured strengthened bodyshells utilising seam welding in places of spot welding, making them more suitable for competition.

After updating the factory team cars with a larger 1701 cc Cosworth BDB engine in 1972 and then with fuel injected BDC, Ford also produced an RS2000 model as an alternative to the somewhat temperamental RS1600, featuring a 2.0L Pinto engine. This also clocked up some rally and racing victories; and pre-empted the hot hatch market as a desirable but affordable performance road car. Like the Mexico and RS1600, this car was produced at the Aveley plant.

This generation of the car eventually ended production in 1975, taking on a much more angular design for the next model year. The car would however continue to gain further fame in the hatchback war years of the 1980's, with the Ford Escort XR3i going head-to-head with the Volkswagen Golf GTi in the battle for the most powerful and greatest hot hatch. This would eventually evolve into what many consider the greatest European sporty Ford ever made, the RS Cosworth, a favourite amongst rally champions and yobbos everywhere!

Ford Escort Mk.II RS2000 (1975-80) Engine 1977cc S4 Ford Pinto

Registration Number LAR 800 P

FORD UK SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623665118181...

As with the Mark 1 the Mark II Escort had a long and distinguished rally carreer, All models of the Mark I were carried over to the Mark II, though the Mexico gained the RS badge and had its engine changed to a 1.6 L OHC Pinto instead of the OHV. A "Sport" model was also produced using the 1.6 L Kent. A new model was released, the RS1800, which had an 1840 cc version of the BDA engine. It was essentially a special created for rallying.he works rally cars were highly specialised machines. Bodyshells were heavily strengthened. They were characterised by the wide wheelarch extensions (pictured right), and often by the fitment of four large spotlights for night stages. The BDA engine was bored to 2.0 L and gave up to 250 bhp It was complemented by a strengthened transmission, five-speed straight-cut ZF gearbox, five-linked suspension and more minor modifications.

Shot at the Racing Car Show, NEC, Birmingham 15:01:2012 REF 81-042

Please do not forget to visit the Flag Counter on the link below to record a visit from your country. So far 52 countries (last new country Austria and 32 US states last new State Michigan) Last new overseas visitor Italy last new US state visitor Pennsylvania

s04.flagcounter.com/more/VIv

C107

Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais

Bonhams

Parijs - Paris

Frankrijk - France

February 2019

Estimated : € 30.000 - 40.000

Sold for € 22.425

Introduced in 1977, the luxurious 450 SLC 5.0 coupé was powered by a new 4.990 cc aluminium-alloy V8 engine that was both lighter and more powerful than the existing 4.5-litre unit. The use of aluminium extended to the bonnet, boot, and wheels, the result being a reduction in weight of over 100kg when compared to the 'old' 450 SLC. With a lower-drag bodyshell, courtesy of spoilers front and rear, the '5.0' was also more efficient aerodynamically than its predecessor, which further reduced fuel consumption, an increasingly important issue, even for sports cars. Not sold in the USA, traditionally Mercedes-Benz's most important market, the '5.0' was built in correspondingly limited numbers, only 2.769 being completed between 1977 and 1981. Maximum speed of this superbly equipped top-of-the-range coupé was around 225 km/h.

This 450 SLC 5.0 was built to European specification and delivered new to RNS Motors in California as a 'grey import'. In 2004, the Mercedes was sold to Ted L Roberts of Fountain, Colorado, who kept it when he moved to Lynn Haven, Florida in 2010. In 2011 Jan Kok of Antwerp, Belgium purchased the car, which was sold to the present owner in 2015. Finished in Midnight Blue with cream leather upholstery, it is a matching-numbers, matching-colours example that has been well maintained and is presented in good solid condition. Representing a wonderful opportunity to own one of these rare and collectible 'factory hotrods', the car is offered with a maintenance history file and Netherlands registration papers.

The second-generation Volkswagen Golf (also known as the Typ 19E until the 1991 model year, and Typ 1G thereafter) was launched in Europe at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1983, with sales beginning in its homeland and most other left-hand drive markets soon after. It debuted in March 1984 on the right-hand drive British market, and it was introduced as a 1985 model in the United States. It featured a larger bodyshell, and a wider range of engine options.

During the life of the Golf MK2, there were a number of external style revisions. Notable changes to the looks of the Golf MK2 included the removal of quarterlight windows in the front doors, and the introduction of larger grille slats with the August 1987 facelift. The most notable was the introduction of so-called "Big Bumpers", which were introduced in the European market with an August 1989 facelift.

The successful Golf GTI (or, in the US, simply "GTI") was continued with the Mk2 as a sporty 3- or 5-door hatchback. Like late Mk1 GTIs, it featured a naturally aspirated Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injected 1,781 cc (1.8 L; 108.7 cu in) Inline-four engine developing 112 PS (82.4 kW; 110.5 hp). In 1986 (1987 for North America) a Golf GTI 16V was introduced; here the 1.8 litre engine output was 139 PS (137 hp; 102 kW) at 6,100 rpm (or 129 metric horsepower (95 kW) for the catalyst version) and 168 newton metres (124 lbf⋅ft) at 4,600 rpm of torque,[6] the model was marked by discreet red-and-black "16V" badges front and rear. US/Canadian GTIs were later equipped with 2.0, 16-valve engines, available in the Passat and Corrado outside North America. In 1990, like the Golf, the GTI was given a facelift, and the "Big Bumper" became standard on all GTIs.

Being October, which had always been the LUGNuts anniversary month, this Mk2 VW Golf GTi has been built to the 42nd challenge theme 'Autos aus Deutschland'.

In 1970 a new Taunus, the Taunus Cortina (TC), was introduced, as a two- or four-door sedan, station wagon (or Turnier) and coupé. It was very similar to the British Ford Cortina Mk III but without the "coke bottle" belt line. Also, the Taunus was available as a coupe, a bodystyle that the Cortina was never made in.

Both cars were developed under the auspices of Ford of Europe, and most major components including key parts of the bodyshell were identical. From 1976 Taunus and Cortina models were identical in all but name, 'Taunus' being the name used in left hand drive (LHD) markets, and 'Cortina' in right hand drive ones, although the Cortina name was used in LHD South Korea and Taiwan. The Mk III was also sold in Scandinavia, alongside the Taunus.

The Ford Taunus TC series was conceived in the late 1960s to be a "world car" alongside its technical sibling the Cortina Mk III, with construction and design work taking place on both sides of the Atlantic. As with the design of the first generation, it was done under the supervision of Semon "Bunkie" Knudsen, of former General Motors fame. The car is often nicknamed "Barock 2" (pointing back to the Taunus P2 series of the late 1950s, commonly known as the "Barock-Taunus") or "The Knudsen Nose" by its German owners because of the pointy hood scoop that, as the legend has it, was put there on direct order from Knudsen. Otherwise the major design work is rumoured to have been done by German car designer Luigi Colani, who also did design concepts for BMW's motorcycle division in the late 1970s.

(Wikipedia)

- - -

Der Ford Taunus TC ist ein Pkw der Mittelklasse von Ford, der von Herbst 1970 bis Mitte 1982 gebaut wurde. Die Schwestermodelle des englischen Ford Cortina MK III (daher auch die Bezeichnung „TC“) haben Vierzylinder-Reihenmotoren oder Sechszylinder-V-Motoren und Hinterradantrieb. Sie sind Nachfolger der Ford 12m und 15m (P6), die mit Frontantrieb (P6) und V-4-Motoren technisch anders ausgeführt waren.

(Wikipedia)

Bonhams : the Zoute Sale

Estimated : € 50.000 - 80.000

Sold for € 51.750

Zoute Grand Prix 2018

Knokke - Zoute

België - Belgium

October 2018

'The Mustang can be tailored to be anything from a gentle in-town ladies' car to an impressive 130mph highway performer. Undoubtedly its almost infinitely variable personality is one of the car's chief attractions...' - William S Stone, 'The Ford Mustang'.

Ford created a new class of car almost overnight with the introduction of the Mustang sports coupé part way through the 1964 season, catching the rest of the US auto industry off guard. Brainchild of Lee Iacocca - subsequent saviour of the Chrysler Corporation – the Mustang is one of the most remarkable automotive success stories of modern times and arguably the pinnacle of his long career with Ford. Aimed at the affluent young, for whom a car was as much a lifestyle statement as means of transport, the Mustang succeeded brilliantly, achieving sales in excess of a quarter million by the end of '64. This remarkable debut was followed by a staggering 524,791 sales in 1965, earning Ford a fortune.

The secret of the Mustang's success was a broad appeal that extended beyond the target market thanks to a great value-for-money package combining sporty looks, decent economy and brisk performance. Mustangs could be ordered in specifications ranging from six-cylinder 'economy' to V8-powered luxury, while customers could choose from an extensive range of factory options, with the result that seldom are two Mustangs identical.

In 1994, Mr John Wilson from Hillsborough, California was looking for an original rust-free, undamaged and all matching numbers Ford Mustang. He found this car in San Francisco and purchased it from the original owner. The Mustang had covered relatively few miles and had not been run for the preceding ten years. Mr Wilson drove the Mustang for three years, and in 1998 decided to restore it to factory-original show standard, commissioning one of the West Coast's most renowned specialists, Potts Restorations of Burlingame, to carry out the work. Working with Potts, the owner spared no expense in his pursuit of perfection. The Potts team methodically disassembled the Mustang down to the bar bodyshell and carefully worked their way upwards, incorporating all 'new-old-stock' parts. Noteworthy features include automatic transmission, power brakes, power steering, electric hood, radio, 'Pony' wheels, and whitewall tyres.

This car is fully matching and correct in every detail, having been restored to the same state it left the factory in 1965. Completed in 2000, the Mustang was shown widely across the USA for the next few years, winning the 'Best in Show' award at every event entered. For two years in a row, it was the MCS Grand National winner as the best Mustang in the country – the ultimate accolade. Other important awards include: Gold AACA Grand National (2001, 2002); ISCA Best Antique Restored Senior Award (2002); ISCA Eastern Division Class Champion (2003); and Carolina Grand National Gold (2000-2003). Over 30 awards come with the car, which 15 years later is still in effectively 'as new' condition, exactly as it left the factory in 1965. Offered with California Certificate of Title and Netherlands registration papers, this breathtaking Mustang is worthy of the closest inspection.

150234 stands in the platform 2 at Cardiff Central having recently arrived with 1C81, 15:00 Cardiff - Taunton, 22nd September 2015.

Unit History

150234 is one of the final batch of 85 two-car class 150 units which were built in 1986/87 with front-end gangway connections and numbered in the range 150201-285. They had different interiors to the earlier class 150/1 units and were used on longer-distance services. The end gangways make them very similar in appearance to later batches of the electric class 317 units, also based on the Mark III bodyshell. 150234 was initially allocated to Newton Heath before migrating to the Western Region in the early 1990’s and is currently allocated to Bristol Phillips Marsh.. 150233 is currently one of sixteen class 150 units operated by First Great Western for local duties.

The Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina and Alfa Romeo 2000 Berlina (both 105 series) were executive cars (E-segment) produced by Italian car manufacturer Alfa Romeo from 1968 to 1977. Berlina is the Italian term for a saloon car. Both cars had Alfa Romeo twin cam inline-four engines; the 1.8-litre 1750 Berlina was made between 1968 and 1971, when it was phased out in favour of the improved 2.0-litre 2000 Berlina.

The 1750 Berlina was based on the existing Giulia saloon, which continued in production. The 1750 was meant to top the saloon range, above the 1300 and 1600 cc versions of the Giulia. In the United States, however, the Giulia saloon ceased to be available and was entirely replaced by the 1750 Berlina. The 1750 entered full production in South Africa in early 1969, later complemented by the 2000.

In contrast to the Giulia, the 1750s had reworked bodywork and bigger engine, shared many parts with other concurrent models in the Alfa Romeo range, but sold many fewer units during their production span.

The 1750 bodyshell had a longer wheelbase than the Giulia, and revised external panels, but it shared many of the same internal panels. The windscreen was also the same. The revisions were carried out by Bertone, and while it resembled the Giulia some of that vehicle's distinctive creases were smoothed out, and there were significant changes to the trim details. The car's taillights were later used on the De Tomaso Longchamp.

The Alfa Romeo 2000 Berlina was produced by Alfa Romeo between 1971 and 1977. The engine was bored and stroked out to 1,962 cc. A different grill distinguishes 2000 from 1750. Also, external lights were different between the models. The 1750 had 7 inch diameter outboard headlights, whereas the 2000 had 5 3/4 inch diameter in all four positions. The tail light clusters were also of a simpler design on the 1750.[8] With two carburetors, this 2 litre Alfa Romeo Twin Cam engine produces 132 PS (97 kW; 130 hp). Top speed was 190 km/h (118 mph) and 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration took 9 seconds. Gearbox was 5-speed manual (also 3-speed automatic on some versions).

Class 47/0 No.47295 approaches Ipswich yard running from Felixstowe on 18th December 2001 with a freightliner at 13:15.47295 was new as D1997 on 3rd June 1966 at 50A York and withdrawn in March 2002 and moved to Brush Traction,Loughborough for partial stripping on 27th January 2003.Whilst at Brush she was sold to the Brush Type 4 Fund in February 2003 and the bodyshell moved to MOD Ashchurch for secure storage,then on to Long Marston.Preservation did not happen and she was cut up at EMR Kingsbury in July 2011.

Arriving at Cambridge with the terminating 2C16 service from London King's Cross is Great Northern Class 321, 321407.

The Class 321's were never originally residents of the East Coast Mainline, but the recent reshuffling of stock, and the availability of 321 vehicles displaced from the West Coast Mainline by Class 350 Desiro units has seen them become regular performers of the Semi-Fast workings in and out of King's Cross.

The Class 321's made their debut in 1988, being built by BREL of York in a set of three batches of 117 units overall. The first batch were the Class 321/3's, of which 66 members were built to operate on the Great Eastern Mainline out of London Liverpool Street, replacing many of the original AC units that dated back to the 1950's. The second batch the 321/4's, were a set of 48 units built to operate on the West Coast Mainline out of London Euston and Birmingham New Street. The final batch, the 321/9's, were built to work trains in West Yorkshire between Leeds and Doncaster, of which three units were built.

The Class 321's design is based largely off the bodyshell of the MkIII coach, and have 1,300hp at their disposal, whisking them to 100mph. The success of these units have seen a selection of derivative units being built, including the Class 320's that work in the Glasgow Area, the Class 322's that were originally built for the Stansted Express but now reside in West Yorkshire, and the Class 456's that operate for Southwest Trains, being of the same design but powered by DC 3rd Rail.

Today, the fleet is still in heavy use on the London commuter networks, with Greater Anglia being the largest operator of the Class on trains out of Liverpool Street. Great Northern inherited a fleet of 13 Class 321's from First Capital Connect, which took these from Silverlink and London Midland after they were displaced from their usual West Coast Mainline stomping ground by the Class 350's. London Midland continue to operate 7 Class 321's in the peak periods for extra capacity, but are highly underutilised as the company pursues a standardised Desiro fleet.

The Jaguar XJ (XJ40) is a luxury sedan manufactured by Jaguar Cars between 1986 and 1994. Officially unveiled on 8 October 1986 it was an all-new redesign of the XJ to replace the Series III, although the two model ranges were sold concurrently until the Series III was discontinued in 1992. The XJ40 used the Jaguar independent rear suspension arrangement, and featured a number of technological enhancements (such as electronic instrumentation)

Development:

Throughout the 1970s Jaguar had been developing "Project XJ40", which was an all-new model intended to replace the original XJ6. Scale models were being built as early as 1972. Due to the 1973 oil crisis and problems at parent company British Leyland, the car was continually delayed. Proposals from both Jaguar's in-house designers and Pininfarina were received. Eventually, it was decided an internal design would be carried through to production and, in February 1981, the British Leyland board approved £80 million to produce the new car.

Jaguar historians claim that the XJ40 was the last car which company founder Sir William Lyons had contributed to during its protracted development phase. The previous generation XJ had been the final Jaguar to be developed wholly under Lyons' leadership - although he continued to take an active consultative role within Jaguar design, long after had retired from the day to day management of the firm following its merger in 1966 with the British Motor Corporation.

During development, the XJ40 pioneered significant improvements to the way Jaguar designed, built, and assembled cars. Among these improvements was a 25 per cent reduction in the number of bodywork panels required per car (e.g. three pressings needed for a Series 3 door compared with one for a XJ40 door), resulting in not only a more efficient assembly process, but also a weight saving and a stiffer structure. Greater attention to panel gaps improved the drag factor (reduced from 0.849 Cd to 0.762 Cd), while also improving the fuel economy and lowering wind noise inside the cabin.

Mechanicals:

AJ6 4.0 L engine (in a 1990 Daimler)

Initially, only two engines were offered across the XJ40 models: a 2.9 L and a 3.6 L version of the AJ6 inline-six. In 1990, these were changed to 3.2 L and 4.0 L versions. In 1993, the XJ12 and Daimler Double Six (both equipped with the Jaguar V12 engine) were added to the available models.

During the development of the XJ40, British Leyland had considered providing the Rover V8 engine for the car, which would have eliminated the need for future Jaguar engine production. The XJ40 bodyshell was allegedly engineered to prevent fitting V-configuration engines such as the Rover V8; this delayed the introduction of the V12-powered XJ12 until 1993.

The automatic gearbox used in the 2.9 L, 3.2 L and 3.6 L six-cylinder cars was the four-speed ZF 4HP22. On the 4.0 L, the four-speed ZF 4HP24 was used. A stronger automatic gearbox was required for the V12-equipped cars, and the four-speed GM 4L80-E was selected. The manual gearbox fitted to early cars was the five-speed Getrag 265, while later cars received the Getrag 290.

The automatic transmission selector was redesigned to allow the manual selection of forward gears without accidentally selecting neutral or reverse. This new feature was dubbed the "J-Gate" and has carried over to more recent Jaguar models.

Exterior:

The curvaceous lines of the outgoing Series XJ were replaced by the more angular, geometric shape of the XJ40. The nose of the car would accommodate either matched pairs of round headlights, or rectangular single units; the latter were fitted to the higher-specification Sovereign and Daimler trim levels, and also to all cars for the US market.

The bumper is a visually distinct black-rubber-covered bar that runs the full width of the car and incorporates the sidelights and indicator lights. The bonnet is hinged at the front. Window frames are either chromed or black, depending on model. Rain gutters, door mirrors, and door handles are also finished in chrome. All XJ40s have a chrome surround for the windscreen and a single windscreen wiper.

Early low-specification cars were fitted with metric-sized steel wheels and plastic wheelcovers. From 1991, the wheels were changed to non-metric sizing.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This Lego miniland-scale 1986 Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40) has been created for Flickr LUGNuts 85th Build Challenge, - "Like, Totally 80s", - for vehicles created during the decade of the 1980s.

Renault 5GTS (1985) Engine 1397cc S4

Registration Number C 83 YNE

RENAULT SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623690632985...</a

The second gereration of the Renault appeared in 1985, designed by Marcello Gandini. with a new chassis and bodyshell.

The new body was wider and longer featuring 20 percent more glass area and more interior space, and with a reduced drag coefficient, The biggest change was the adoption of a transversely-mounted powertrain taken directly from the 9 and 11, plus a less sophisticated suspension design, which used MacPherson struts. Upon launch it had engines of 956cc for the entry level TC, 1108cc for the TL and 1108cc in the GTL, Automatic, TS and TSE. with differing power ratings.

The GTL with 59bhp

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Austin Allegro 1500SDL (1973-75) Engine 1493cc S4 E SeriesTransverse

Registration Number RYV 745 L

AUSTIN SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623759808208...

The Allegro was designed as the replacement for the popular Austin 1100 and 1300 models by Sir Alec Issigonis.and was available as 2 and 4 door Saloons and a 3 door Estate. Powered by the BMC A series engine in 1100 and 1300cc versions or the E series engine in 1500 and 1750cc forms, with a sump-mounted transmission. driving the front wheels. The two-box saloon bodyshell was suspended using the new Hydragas system (derived from the previous Hydrolastic system used on the 1100/1300). Early Allegro models featured a "quartic" steering wheel, which was rectangular, with rounded sides. The quartic wheel did not take off, and was first dropped in 1974.

The SDL remained top of the 1300cc and 1500cc ange throughout the life cysle of the Series i Allegro

A big thankyou for an incredible 22.5 million views

Shot at the Classic Car Show, NEC, Birmingham 16:11:2013 REF 101-047

Austin Allegro 1300SDL Mk2 (1976-80) Engines 1275cc. S4 Tr.

Registration Number ULJ 725 S

AUSTIN ALBUM

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/albums/72157623759808208

The Allegro was designed as a replacement for the 1100 - 1300 models, designed by Sir Alec Issigonis the new car was launched in 1973. The Allegro used front-wheel drive, using the familiar A-Series engine with a sump-mounted transmission. The higher-specification models used the SOHC E-Series engine (from the Maxi), in 1500 cc and 1750 cc displacements. The two-box saloon bodyshell was suspended using the new Hydragas system (derived from the previous Hydrolastic system used on the 1100/1300). Stylistically the car bucked the trend of the 1970's sharp edge look in favour of a rounded bodyshell Early Allegro models featured a "quartic" steering wheel, which was rectangular with rounded sides. This was touted as allowing extra room between the base of the steering wheel and the driver's legs.

The quartic wheel did not take off, and was dropped in 1974

The updated Allegro 2 was launched at the 1975 London Motorshow the Allegro 2 had the same bodyshells but featured a new grille, reversing lights on most models and some interior changes to increase rear seat room, Changes were also made to the suspension, braking, engine mounts and drive shafts.

The Allegro received its second major update, launched as the Allegro 3 at the end of 1979. The refreshed car used an "A-Plus" version of the 1.0 litre A-Series engine (developed for the forthcoming new Metro), and featured some cosmetic alterations in an attempt to keep the momentum going, but by then the Allegro was outdated and the Metro was due on stream in 1980. By 1980 the Allegro failed to dent the he top 10 best selling new cars in Britain, a table it had topped a decade earlier, though BL were represented by the fast selling Metro and the Triumph Acclaim. The Vanden Plas models were rebranded as the 1.5 and the 1.7, the 1.5 having a twin carburettor 1500 cc engine and a manual gearbox, while the 1.7 had a single carburettor 1750cc engine and an automatic gearbox. Some models of Allegro 3 (the early HL and later HLS models) were equipped with four round headlights, rather than the more usual two rectangular ones. The final Allegro was built in March 1982 with its successor the Austin Maestro going into production December 1982.

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Shot at Catton Hall 02.05.2010 Ref 53-27

Wiesmann GT MF5 (2012) Engine 4395cc V8 BMW twin scroll turbo Production 55

ENTRANT: Wiesmann GmbH

Introduced in 2009 as the most powerful Wiesmann model to date. The GT MF5 is a closed two-seater & two-seater roadster with production limited just 55 examples.

The chassis is a bonded and riveted aluminium monocoque. With a high quality glass fibre bodyshell.

The car is powered by a BMW twin-scroll twin turbocharged V8 engine of 4395 cc driving the rear wheels and rated at 547bhp mated to a six speed sports automatic gearbox with steering wheel paddle shifters.

The car has a 0-100kmph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 193mph.

Priced from £ 189,500 in 2010.

Shot at The Goodwood Festival of Speed 30:06:2012 Ref: 87-497

Please do not forget to visit the Flag Counter on the link above to record a visit from your country.

s04.flagcounter.com/more/VIv

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The Lancia Fulvia (Tipo 818) is an Italian car introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1963 by Lancia and produced until 1976. Fulvias are notable for their role in motorsport history, including winning the International Rally Championship in 1972. On testing it in 1967, Road & Track summed up the Fulvia as "a precision motorcar, an engineering tour de force". Named after Via Fulvia, Roman road leading from Tortona to Torino.

The Fulvia was available in three variants: Berlina 4-door saloon, 2-door Coupé, and Sport, an alternative fastback coupé designed and built by Zagato on the Coupé floorpan.

Specifications:

Chassis

The Fulvia Berlina was designed by Antonio Fessia, to replace the Lancia Appia with which it shared almost no components. The Appia was a rear wheel drive car, however, while the Fulvia moved to front wheel drive like the Flavia. The general engineering design of the Fulvia was identical to that of the Flavia with the major exception of the engine, the Flavia having a four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine and the Fulvia a 'Narrow Angle' vee configuration as featured on most production Lancias from the Lambda. The Fulvia used a longitudinal engine mounted in front of its transaxle. An independent suspension in front used wishbones and a single leaf spring, while a beam axle with a panhard rod and leaf springs was used in back. Four wheel Dunlop disc brakes were fitted to first series Fulvias. With the introduction of the second series in 1970 the brakes were uprated with larger Girling calipers all round and a brake servo. The handbrake design was also changed - using separate drums and brake-shoes operating on the rear wheels.

Engine

The V4 engine of a 1972 Fulvia Berlina

One element that was new was the narrow-angle V4 engine. Designed by Zaccone Mina, it used a narrow angle (12°53'28") and was mounted well forward at a 45° angle. The engine is a DOHC design with a one camshaft operating all intake valves and another operating all exhaust valves. The very narrow angle of the cylinders allowed for use of a single cylinder head.

Displacement began at just 1091 cc with 58 bhp (44 kW) with a 72 mm bore and 67 mm stroke. A higher (9.0:1) compression ratio and the fitment of twin Solex carburettors raised power to 71 bhp (53 kW) soon after.

The engine was bored to 6 mm to enlarge displacement to 1216 cc for the HF model. This, and some tuning, raised output to 80 to 88 bhp (60 to 66 kW).

The engine was re-engineered with a slightly narrower bank angle (12°45'28") and longer (69.7 mm) stroke for 1967. Three displacements were produced: 1199 cc (74 mm bore), 1231 cc (75 mm bore), and 1298 cc (77 mm bore). The new 1298 cc engine was produced in two versions; the type 818.302 produced 87 bhp (65 kW) at 6000 rpm and was fitted to 1st series Coupés, Sports and Berlina GTE and later to the 2nd Series Berlina. The Type 818.303 was first produced with 92 hp (69 kW) and was fitted to the 1st series Coupé Rallye S and Sport S. For the 2nd Series Coupé and Sport power was slightly reduced to 90 hp (67 kW) at 6000 rpm.

The engine was completely reworked for the new 1.6 HF with an even-narrower angle (11°20' now) and longer 75 mm stroke combined with a bore of 82 mm gave it a displacement of 1584 cc, and power ranged from 115 to 132 bhp (85 to 98 kW) depending on tune.

Coupé 1.3 S Montecarlo: 1972–73.

Special edition based on the 1.3 S, commemorating Lancia's victory at the 1972 Monte Carlo Rally. The livery resembled the works car, with matte black bonnet and boot lid bearing Monte Carlo rally plate-style stickers. This version used his own bodyshell with flared wheel arches, similar to but different from the 1.6 HF bodyshell. Other accouterments included 1.6 HF Lusso interior fittings such as bucket seats with headrests, rectangular front fog lamps, no bumpers and black single wing mirror; 4.5J steel wheels of the standard Coupé were fitted.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lancia_Fulvia

This Lego miniland-scale Lancia Fulvia Coupe 1.3 S Monte Carlo - has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 106th Build Challenge, titled - 'Exclusive Edition!' - a challenge for vehicles made in a 'special edition' - for whatever reason.

Ford Thames 300E (1954-61) Engine *2000cc

Registration Number YXP 555

FORD (UK) SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623665118181...

Based on the Ford 100E cars the 300E was introduced in 1954 and it shared a bodyshell with the station wagon. Powered by a Ford 1172cc engine

*(i know it sys 2.0ltr above but that was taken from the DVLA record for this van YXP 555)

Initially produced only as a 5cwt (250kg) carrying capacity, the range was later expanded with the introduction of the 7cwt (350kg) Standard and Deluxe variants. Total production 196,885 = 139,267 5cwt, 10,056 7cwt Standard and 47,562 7cwt Deluxe.

This van carries the decals of AC Cars of Thames Ditton (home of AC) and may explain that odd sized engine.

Shot at the Silverstone Classic 25.07.2010 Ref 57-260

Bodyshell modified with a longer cab.

Estimated : CHF 70.000 - 100.000

Sold for CHF 66.700 - € 60.597

The Bonmont Sale

Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams

Golf & Country Club de Bonmont

Chéserex

Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz

September 2019

Porsche's long-running and much loved 911 sports car first appeared at the 1963 Frankfurt Show as the '901', but shortly after production proper commenced in 1964 had become the '911' following Peugeot's complaints about the use of '0' model numbers. The preceding Type 356's rear-engined layout was retained but the 911 switched to unitary construction for the bodyshell and dropped the 356's VW-based suspension in favour of a more modern McPherson strut and trailing arm arrangement. In its first incarnation, Porsche's single-overhead-camshaft, air-cooled flat six engine displaced 1,991cc and produced 130bhp; progressively enlarged and developed, it would eventually grow to more than 3.0 litres and, in turbo-charged form, put out well over 300 horsepower.

The first of countless upgrades to the perennial 911 came in 1966, two years after production had commenced, with the introduction of the 911S, which featured stylish Fuchs five-spoked alloy wheels and a heavily revised and more powerful engine. Improved handling courtesy of a lengthened wheelbase arrived in 1969 and then in 1970 the 911's air-cooled, flat six engine underwent the first of many enlargements - to 2.2 litres. By this time the models on offer had stabilised at three: the entry-level 911T, middle-ranking 911E and top-of-the-range 911S, all of which were available as either a closed coupé or Targa convertible. With the 2.2-litre engine's arrival, a common type of cylinder head was adopted, the differing power outputs being determined principally by valve timing rather than valve sizes as had been the case hitherto. In 1972 all 911 variants received the 2,341cc (nominally 2.4-litre) unit, which in 'E' specification produced a maximum of 165bhp.

According to the vendor, this delightful Porsche 911E Targa had been comprehensively restored by Harald Brandner of BMC Classics in Florida, USA in 2011/2012. When the car arrived in Europe, the engine was again thoroughly overhauled by renowned specialist Tobias Nussbaumer of Flat Six Cars in Basel. Since then it has seen only sporadic use in good weather only. Finished in grey with grey/black interior, this extensively restored 2.4-litre 911 is offered with Swiss Carte Grise; MFK document; and assorted invoices, correspondence, and photographs relating to its restoration.

The very last of British Leyland's attempt to replicate the success of the Mini. Though the Metro did sell strong on the domestic market, it's ability to woo the international market like its predecessor was sadly not meant to be. Here is the very last Rover 100 Metro, signed by members of the production team as it left the Longbridge factory for the last time.

Originally conceived by British Leyland, the Metro was built to similar principals as those of the Mini it was intended to replace, with a small, practical platform with as much use available to the passenger as was possible. The car came under various initial guises, including the Austin Metro, the Austin miniMetro, the Morris Metro van and the MG Metro, a version of the car with a 1.3L A-Series Turbo Engine.

Although the car was launched in 1980, development of a Mini replacement had dated back to the beginning of the 70's. Dubbed ADO88 (Amalgamated Drawing Office project number 88), the Metro was eventually given the go ahead in 1977, but wanted to have the appeal of some of the larger 'Supermini' (what a contradiction in terms) cars on the market, including cars such as the Ford Fiesta and the Renault 5. Designed by Harris Mann (the same guy who gave us the Princess and the Allegro), the car was given a much more angular body for the time, but despite its futuristic looks did share many features of the earlier Mini, including the 675cc BMC-A Series engine that dated back to 1959, and the gearbox. Initial cars also included the Hydragas Suspension system originally used on the Allegro and the Princess, though with no front/rear connection. The car was also built as a hatchback, which would eventually be a key part of its success as the Mini instead utilised only a small boot.

The Metro was originally meant for an earlier 1978 launch, but a lack of funds and near bankruptcy of British Leyland resulted in the car's launch being pushed back. This delay however did allow the folks at Longbridge to construct a £200m robotic assembly plant for the new Metro line, with the hope of building 100,000 cars per year. Finally the car entered sales 3 years late and got off to quite promising initial sales, often being credited for being the saviour of British Leyland. The Metro was in fact the company's first truly new model in nearly 5 years, with the 9 year old Allegro still in production, the 1980 Morris Ital being nothing more than a 7 year old Marina with a new face, and the 5 year old Princess not going anywhere!

As mentioned, an entire myriad of versions came with the Metro, including the luxury Vanden Plas version and the sporty MG with its top speed of 105mph and 0-60mph of 10.1 seconds. Eventually the original incarnation of the car, the Austin Metro, went on to sell 1 million units in it's initial 10 year run, making it the second highest selling car of the decade behind the Ford Escort. However, like most other British Leyland products, earlier cars got a bad reputation for poor build quality and unreliability, combined with the lack of rustproofing that was notorious on many BL cars of the time.

The show was not over however, as in 1990 the car was given a facelift and dubbed the Rover Metro. The 1950's A-Series engine was replaced by a 1.1L K-Series, and the angular bodyshell was rounded to similar principals as those by acclaimed styling house Ital to create a more pleasing look for the 90's. This facelift, combined with an improvement in reliability and build quality, meant that the car went on to win the 'What Car?' of the Year Award in 1991.

In 1994 the car was given yet another facelift, with once again a more rounded design and removal of the Metro name, the car being sold as the Rover 100. Engines were once again changed, this time to a 1.5L Peugeot engine and more audacious colour schemes were available for the even more rounded design of the new car. However, the car was very much starting to look and feel its age. Aside from the fact that the design dated back to 1977, the new car was not well equipped, lacking electric windows, anti-lock brakes, power steering, or even a rev counter! In terms of safety, it was very basic, with most features such as airbags, an alarm, an immobiliser and central locking being optional extras.

Eventually the curtain had to fall on the Metro, and in 1997, twenty years after the initial design left the drawing board, it was announced that the car would be discontinued. Spurred on by dwindling sales due to lack of safety and equipment, as well as losing out to comparative cars such as the ever popular Ford Fiesta, VW Polo and Vauxhall Corsa, with only fuel economy keeping the car afloat, Rover axed the Metro in 1998 with no direct replacement, although many cite the downsized Rover 200 a possible contender. Stumbling blindly on, the next car to fill the gap in Rover's market was the 2003 CityRover, based on the TATA Indica, which flopped abysmally and pretty much totalled the company (but that's another story).

In the end only 2,078,000 Metro's were built in comparison to the 5.3 million examples of the Mini that it was meant to replace. The main failings of the Metro were down to the fact that the car was too big compared to the Mini, and the rounded old-world charm of the Coopers and Clubmans was replaced by the angular corners. Because of this the car simply didn't have the novelty that the Mini continued to claim even 20 years after the first ones left the factory, and the Mini would even go on to outlive the Metro by another 2 years, ending production in 2000, then going on to have a revival in the form of BMW's New Mini Cooper that's still being built today. Unlike the Mini, the Metro also failed to conquer the international market in the same way, scoring its 2 million units pretty much in Britain alone, although some cars were sold in France and Spain, but only to the total of a few hundred.

The Metro however survived only on fuel economy and its spacious interior, but by the early 1990's, whilst other car manufacturers had moved on leaps and bounds, Rover continued to be stuck in the past with not the money or the enthusiasm to change what was a terribly outdated and extremely basic car. Towards the end the Metro, which had only a few years earlier won awards for its practical nature, was ending up on lists for Worst car on the market.

Today however you can still see Metro's, later editions are especially common on the roads of Britain. Earlier models built under British Leyland have mostly rusted away and are apparently only down to about a thousand nowadays, but the Rover 100's and Rover Metros continue to ply their trade, a lonely reminder of how here in Britain, we can never ever seem to move on!

Spotted on visit to Bridport Porsche Specialists Marque 21. www.marque21.co.uk/

Many thanks to Kieron & Samie for organising the visit :-))

Subaru Impreza WRC

Empty body shell of a 1934-1952 Citroën Traction Avant on a trailer, ready for transportation.

The Citroën Traction Avant was designed by a team lead by André Lefèbvre and Flaminio Bertoni.

Production TA: 1934-1957.

Number seen: 1.

Probably near Besançon (Doubs, Fr.), Avenue de la 7ème Armée Américaine, D683, Aug. 19, 2016.

© 2016 Sander Toonen Amsterdam | All Rights Reserved

Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais

Bonhams

Estimated : € 40.000 - 60.000

Sold for € 32.200

Parijs - Paris

Frankrijk - France

February 2018

- Delivered new to France

- Three owners from new

- Very well maintained

- Fully documented

- 29.307 km recorded

In the mid-1980s, Ford to renew its alliance with Cosworth to create the eponymous Sierra, assembly commencing in June 1986 at the company's Genk plant in Belgium. Based on the three-door Sierra bodyshell, the RS Cosworth combined the standard 1.993 cc Pinto engine's cylinder block with a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, the first time the latter combination had been seen in a production Ford engine. Topping it off was a Cosworth-developed, 16-valve cylinder head fed by a Garrett AiResearch turbocharger, the latter being deemed necessary to achieve a competitive power output for racing, which in time would amount to over 500bhp! Even in standard road trim the RS Cosworth produced a staggering 204bhp. Needless to say, the standard Sierra underpinnings were comprehensively up-rated to cope.

This Sierra RS Cosworth was delivered new in France on 25th April 1988 via the official Ford dealer, Durruty in Bayonne. Its first owner, Mr Pourvahab, a businessman living in Biarritz, paid a total of FF 175.000 for the car, and took delivery on a temporary registration (the original invoice and registration certificate are on file). Six weeks later, the car was registered by its owner in Biarritz, and at the same time received the anti-theft etching required by the insurance company (certificate on file).

The first owner took great care of the car for more than 20 years, covering 28.732 km (see bill of sale on file). The next owner, Mr André Lenoir of Berre-l'Etang (Bouches-du-Rhône), registered the Sierra in February 2009 and kept it for the next seven years. The car was well stored seldom be driven (the roadworthiness report of 2015 indicates 29.217 km). Finally, in 2016, the car was added to the stable of a prominent Belgian collector. Today, the car still sports its French second-owner registration plates from the Départment Bouches-du-Rhône ('308 BTS 13').

The car's current condition is a testimony to the great care it has enjoyed all its life. The interior shows almost no signs of wear, and the original Zandvoort Blue exterior colour presents beautifully. All books and instruction manuals are present, including the very rare 'Sierra Cosworth RS' supplement. The car is described as in generally excellent condition and runs extremely well.

The Sierra RS Cosworth has always been a coveted car as confirmed by a recent article in 'Octane' magazine dated January 2018, with record numbers stolen in their early days. Today, they are much sought after by discerning collectors, especially when presented in original, unmolested condition and with excellent provenance like this stunning example, which ticks all the boxes.

66092 was moving very slowly and therefore an opportunity arose to shoot this meet with 158888 on a Salisbury - Romsey - Southampton - Romsey service. SouthWestTrains has a little group of class 158 Sprinters and all of the three-car class 159 fleet for a few not-electrified routes and services (and the Lymington branch on weekdays) and they are painted in their attractive white-orange-red livery. It surely makes up for the not so attractive class 158/159 bodyshell.