View allAll Photos Tagged Bodyshell

The GT 1300 Junior Zagato was a limited production two seater coupe with aerodynamic bodywork by Zagato (Ercole Spada) of Milan. The model evoked the earlier, race-oriented Giulietta Sprint Zagatos which featured aluminium bodywork and had a very active competition history. However, the Junior Zagato featured a steel bodyshell with an aluminium bonnet and aluminium doorskins (on the earlier 1300 JZ's). The 1300 JZ was not specifically intended for racing and did not see much use in competition. The 1300 JZ was first seen in public at the Turin Motor Show of 1969. In total 1,108 units were constructed of which 2 were destroyed during production because the bodyshells were not within specification. The 1300 was based on the floorpan, driveline and suspension of the 1300 Spider. However, the floorpan was shortened behind the rear wheels to fit the bodyshell. The last 1300 Junior Zagato was produced in 1972 although in 1974 2 more cars were built according to the records.

 

In 1972 the 1600 Zagato came out of which 402 units were produced. In this case the floorpan was unaltered from the 1600 Spider, so that the normal fueltank could be left in place. As a consequence, the 1600 Zagato is approximately 100 mm (3.9 in) longer than the 1300 JZ. This can be seen at the back were the sloping roofline runs further back and the backpanel is different and lower. The lower part of the rear bumper features a bulge to make room for the spare tire. The 1600 Zagato has numerous differences when compared to the 1300 Junior Zagato. If you ever see two side by side, have a look at the details. The last 1600 Zagato was produced in 1973 and the cars were sold until 1975.

 

(Wikipedia)

Jensen Interceptor III (1971-73) Engine 440cu (7212cc)

Production 3419

Registration Number KKP 718 L (Kent)

JENSEN ALBUM

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157624203748256...

 

The Jensen Interceptor is a sporting GT class car, hand built at West Bromwich, England with the body designed by Carrozzeria, Touring in Italy and powered by a US Chrysler V8.

The Interceptor broke with Jensen tradition by having a steel bodyshell rather than one of GRP.

The original specification included electric windows, reclining front seats, a wood rimmed steering wheel, radio with twin speakers, reversing lights and an electric clock. Power steering was included as standard from September 1968.

The Mark II (1969-71) shared the same Chrysler engine as the original Interceptor but offered revised front styling and ventilated disc brakes

The Mark III had a larger 440cu (7212cc) Chrysler V8 with four barrel carburettor. The Interceptor sold well until sales were hit by the OPEC oil crisis of 1974.

 

Diolch am 79,998,019 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 79,998,019 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 05.01.2020.at Bicester Heritage Centre, Bicester, Oxon 144-678

.

   

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'.

Austin Allegro (Ser.1) 1100DL (1973-76) 1098cc S4 Tr.

Registration Number LVD 620 P (Luton)

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

 

Diolch am 98,429,732 o olygiadau gwych, mae pob un ohonynt yn cael eu gwerthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 98,429,732 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 09.10.2022, at Bicester Heritage, Autumn Scramble, Bicester Aerodrome, Bicester, Oxon 166-064

 

The Maserati Merak (Tipo 122) was an Italian sports car introduced in 1972, essentially a junior version of the Maserati Bora. It substituted an all new Maserati designed quad-cam V-6 motor (also shared with the Citroen SM) for the Bora's larger V-8, resulting not only in a lower cost, but room for a small backseat and better handling due to lower weight and a better front/rear weight distribution.

 

Aesthetically, the Merak differed from the otherwise very similar Bora mainly in sporting open flying buttresses instead of the Bora's fully glassed rear, and the use of the Citroen SM dashboard on models produced before 1976.

 

The Merak went out of production in 1982.

 

History

 

Citroën era Merak

 

The first Merak was designed during the Citroën ownership of Maserati (1968–1975). It featured a 3.0 L (180 cu in) Maserati V6 engine with 190 PS (140 kW; 187 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.

 

As for the Bora, certain Citroën hydraulic systems were used in the Merak; brakes, clutch, headlight pods. The Citroën SM's dashboard was also used in early Meraks (1972 to 1975)....

 

Wikipedia

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

Registration Number UTC 884 T (Bristol)

AUSTIN SET

 

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/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 1975London 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

 

Thankyou for a massive 54,627,382 views

 

Shot 03.07.2016 at Cars in the Park, Beacon Park, Lichfield REF 121-074

  

Production: 1 of 1983 (1992-1995)

 

After Rover took over MG from British Leyland, they wanted to build a new open sports car: the MG F. Prior to the introduction of the MG F, in order to revitalize MG's brand awareness, it was decided to build a small series of sports cars equipped with a Rover V8 had to come.

 

That became the MG RV8. A British Heritage bodyshell was used. Broadly speaking, the car resembles an MG B. However, newly modeled front and rear fenders were fitted, a hood with a nice bump on it, leather interior, wooden dashboard, specially made rear lights and wheels, a 3.9 ltr. V8 engine with 190 HP and 320 Newton meters of torque, a rear axle with a limited slip differential, reaction arms and a newly designed front axle with, as well as the rear, telescopic shock absorbers.

 

The front and rear bumpers have also been redesigned and are made of plastic. All MG RV8's are right-hand drive. A total of 1983 units of the MG RV8 were produced. The chassis numbers start at 000251 to 2251. This is chassis number 1331.

 

This MG RV8 was delivered new in the Netherlands on March 20, 1995 to the first Dutch owner. It is said that this MG RV8 was on the RAI Exhibition as a show car.

 

In 2008, MG Specialist Jos van der Wouw took over this RV8 from the first owner and converted the car from right to left hand drive. This was done in a very professional manner and Jos van der Wouw converted a total of approximately 14 RV8's and had all the experience. The car was then sold to the second owner, where the car remained in the family until this year.

 

Source: wheelsbylex.nl/occasions-kopen/35960242-mg-rv8-4-0-v8-lhd...

 

British Classic Car Club Day 2023

Expo Houten, the Netherlands.

1965 Austin-Healey Sprite rebodied with a Frogeye Sprite Restoration Assembly GRP bodyshell on a galvanised chassis.

 

Fitted with a 1275cc engine.

Meyers Manx Dune Buggy (1964-71) Engine 1600cc Volkswagen S4

Registration Number PAB 482 E (Worcestershire)

 

The Meyers Manx dune buggy is a small recreationally-oriented automobile, designed initially for desert racing by Californian engineer, artist, boat builder and surfer Bruce F. Meyers. It was produced by his Fountain Valley, California company, B. F. Meyers & Co. from 1964 to 1971, in the form of car kits applied to shortened chassis of Volkswagen Beetles. It dominated the sport of Dune Racing and was eventualiy also made available as a street oriented model. The original company folded shortly after Meyers departure, due to tax problems. New vehicles inspired by the original Manx buggy have been produced by Meyers's re-founded operation, Meyers Manx, Inc., since 2000.

 

The commercially manufactured Meyers Manx Mk I featured an open-wheeled fiberglass bodyshell, coupled with the Volkswagen Beetle H4 flat-four engine (1.2 L, 1.3 L, 1.5 L and 1.6 L, in different models) and a modified, RR-layout Beetle frame. It is a small car, with a wheelbase 141⁄4 inches (36.2 cm) shorter and lighter than a Beetle

 

Approximately 6,000 of the original Meyers Manx dune buggies were produced, but when the design became popular many copies (estimated at a quarter of a million worldwide) were made by other companies. Although already patented, Meyers & Co. lost in court to the copiers, the judge rescinding his patent as unpatentable, opening the floodgates to the industry Meyers started

 

Diolch am 74,707,534 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 74,707,534 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 07.07.2019 at Cars in the Park, Beacon Park, Lichfield 143-074

   

These RHD cars had the same dashboards whether Chevrolet (Impalas and Bel Airs also made it to Australia; NZ took just Impalas) or Pontiac and only one dash design per bodyshell run so the 61-64 models had the one dash (a RHD version of the 1961 Pontiac layout) even though it changed annually in Canada and the 65-68s all had a 'transposed' version of the '65 Chevrolet dash. The RHD cars also had antiquated, short, 'clap-hands' wipers that almost met in the middle of the windshield rather than the parallel wipers of the LHD Canadian cars. Local radios, upholstery and two-speed heater/demisters were fitted - some Australian cars had local Frigidaire air conditioning.

 

Wikipedia

The CL Series Valiant was introduced in November 1976. Although it used the same bodyshell as the previous VK range, the front and rear ends were restyled. The front end used horizontally arrayed quad round headlamps flanking a central grille. The front guards and bonnet were also reworked accordingly. The new bootlid's curved leading edge flowed down to new taillights that sandwiched a simple centre garnish panel. The bumpers, however, were the same units as had been used on the 1969 VF series Valiants.

 

The 3.5 L (215 cu in) Hemi-6 and 5.9 L (360 cu in) V8 were dropped, and the only engine options were low- and high-compression versions of the 4.0 L (245 cu in) Hemi-6 and the 5.2 L (318 cu in) V8. The CL's introduction had closely coincided with that of the strict exhaust emission regulations contained in ADR 27A. With the 318 engine, a new emissions control system was introduced: Electronic Lean Burn.

 

Valiant and Regal sedans also benefited from the 1978 introduction of Radial Tuned Suspension in response to Holden's having marketed their suspension as particularly suited to radial tyres.

 

36,672 CL Valiants — including the last-ever Chargers — were built.

 

This Valiant wagon is created for the #mocaround49 challneg #vacationwagon

 

Northern 150225 stands in the platform at Salford Crescent working 2J04, 09:24 Wigan – Manchester Victoria, 13th March 2018. Salford Crescent is a relatively new station opening in 1987 as part of the Windsor link enhancements and I was involved at the time in some of the associated signalling works.

 

Unit History

150225 is one of the final batch of eighty five class 150 two-car units which were built at York in 1986/87 with front-end gangways. 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. 150225 has always been based in the Manchester/Leeds area and I first came across 150225 twenty nine years ago at Manchester Piccadilly on the 17th February 1989.

 

The 1956 Chevrolet was the middle year of what has come to be known as the 'tri-fives', as such, it was the first refresh of the 1955 bodyshell. Notably the radiator grille was now leaned forward at the top, producing a longer hood (bonnet) profile.

 

Models were again arranged 150, 210 and Bel Air. The Nomad two-door Hardtop Wagon shown here is considered to be a sub-variant of the Bel Air series, and was not available in any other trim level. The car shared a long arc chrome strip with the 210 model, which drooped at the tail and split the body in models with two-tone paint. The roof was paired to the upper bodysides (behind a vertical chromed trim feature half way along the car), along with the trunk, while the hood matched the upper bodyside, ahead of the vertical split (just behind the front door), along with the painted surface under the horizontal arc.

 

A range of six and vee-eight engines were available, the V8 was a 265 CID (4.3 L) rated at 170 bhp (127 kW), 210 bhp (157 kW) or 225 bhp (168 kW) depending on the carburetor configuration. Power was to jump considerable the following year with the introduction of the 283 CID (4.6 L ) small block.

 

Other GM divisions, picked up new bodies for 1957, with the exception of Chevrolet and Pontiac. The 1957 was a hasty refresh of the 1955/56, the top Bel Air trim becoming one of the most famous and sought after Chevrolet models.

With Triumph Herald convertible bodyshell.

Perth again on I suspect the same day as the photo of 27032.

This time we have Class 40 40173 on what is probably an Aberdeen to Glasgow service.

40173 is the loco whose bodyshell spent a long time on sleepers at Perth after withdrawl. It also worked the railtour to Portsmouth and Brighton which I travelled on and photos of which are on the stream.

Image from a negative in my collection by an unknown photographer.

Lotus Elite (Type 83 - 2nd Gen) (1980-82) Engine 2174cc Lotus 912 S4

Production 2535 (Both 1st and 2nd Generation)

Registration Number LCL 852 V (Norwich)

LOTUS ALBUM

 

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623671671113...

 

The first generation type 75 Elite was designed by Oliver Winterbottom and introduced in 1974 as a replacement for the Lotus Elan Plus 2. considerably larger four-seat Type 75 and later Type 83 Elite. were designed to take Lotus upmarket and move away from its kit-car past. The Elite has a shooting brake body style, with a glass rear hatch opening into the luggage compartment. The Elite's fibreglass bodyshell was mounted on a steel backbone chassis evolved from the Elan and Europa. It had 4-wheel independent suspension using coil springs. The Elite was the first Lotus automobile to use the aluminium-block 4-valve, DOHC, four-cylinder Type 907 engine that displaced 1,973 cc and was rated at 155hp. The 907 engine ultimately became the foundation for the 2.0 L and 2.2 L Esprit power-plants, the naturally aspirated 912 and the turbocharged 910.

 

In 1980 the Type 75 was replaced by the Type 83, also known as Elite Mk.2 Its engine was increased to the larger 2174cc, Lotus 912. The chassis was now galvanised steel and the five speed BMC gearbox was replaced by a Getrag Type 265 unit. The vacuum-operated headlights of the earlier model were replaced with electrically operated units and the Elite was now fitted with a front spoiler, a new rear bumper and brake lights from the Rover SD1.

 

Lotus Elite (Type 83 - 2nd Gen) (1980-82) Engine 2174cc Lotus 912 S4

Production 2535 (Both 1st and 2nd Generation)

Registration Number LCL 852 V (Norwich)

LOTUS ALBUM

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623671671113...

 

The first generation type 75 Elite was designed by Oliver Winterbottom and introduced in 1974 as a replacement for the Lotus Elan Plus 2. considerably larger four-seat Type 75 and later Type 83 Elite. were designed to take Lotus upmarket and move away from its kit-car past. The Elite has a shooting brake body style, with a glass rear hatch opening into the luggage compartment. The Elite's fibreglass bodyshell was mounted on a steel backbone chassis evolved from the Elan and Europa. It had 4-wheel independent suspension using coil springs. The Elite was the first Lotus automobile to use the aluminium-block 4-valve, DOHC, four-cylinder Type 907 engine that displaced 1,973 cc and was rated at 155hp. The 907 engine ultimately became the foundation for the 2.0 L and 2.2 L Esprit power-plants, the naturally aspirated 912 and the turbocharged 910.

 

In 1980 the Type 75 was replaced by the Type 83, also known as Elite Mk.2 Its engine was increased to the larger 2174cc, Lotus 912. The chassis was now galvanised steel and the five speed BMC gearbox was replaced by a Getrag Type 265 unit. The vacuum-operated headlights of the earlier model were replaced with electrically operated units and the Elite was now fitted with a front spoiler, a new rear bumper and brake lights from the Rover SD1.

 

Diolch am 84,637,178 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn 90cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 84,637,178 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 01.08-2021 exiting the Silverstone Festival 01.08.2021 Ref 149-258

 

W111

 

Zoute Sale - Bonhams

Estimated : € 75.000 - 100.000

Sold for € 83.375

 

Zoute Grand Prix 2022

Knokke - Zoute

België - Belgium

October 2022

 

'Exclusive' is a much bandied-about word in the classic car world, but it is a most apt description of the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5. Why? Because at $13,500 in 1970 its price was not only $3,500 more than that of the equivalent Mercedes-Benz sedan but also more than double that of a Cadillac Deville Coupé! Commonplace it was not.

 

The 3.5-litre version of the 280 SE typifies the resurgence of larger-engined Mercedes-Benz models that began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the progressive easing of fiscal constraints, which had dissuaded customers from buying cars with large capacity engines, encouraged the German manufacturer to offer bigger, more potent power units. Thus the ultra-luxurious 280 SE Coupé/Cabriolet and 300 SEL saloon were the models chosen by Mercedes-Benz to launch its magnificent new 3.5-litre V8 engine in September 1969. An over-square design featuring a cast-iron block and aluminium-alloy cylinder heads, each equipped with a single overhead camshaft, this all-new, state-of-the-art power unit produced 200bhp courtesy of Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorised ignition.

 

The new V8 engine had particularly smooth-running characteristics and endowed the 280 SEs with performance superior to that of many out-and-out sports cars. Thus equipped, the Coupé/Cabriolet was good for 125mph (200km/h) with 60mph (97km/h) reachable in 9.5 seconds, a substantial improvement on the six-cylinder version's figures. As befitted top-of-the-range luxury models, the 280 SE 3.5 Coupé and Cabriolet came equipped with automatic transmission, power windows, and a stereo radio as standard.

 

Although the equivalent SEL saloon used the 'New Generation' bodyshell, the 280 SE Coupé and Cabriolet kept the elegant coachwork that had debuted back in 1960/1961 on the 220 SE. Nevertheless, there had been some refinements made: the radiator shell was lower and wider, with a correspondingly flatter front end to the bonnet, a characteristic that has led to enthusiasts referring to these face-lifted cars as 'flat radiator' models, while the bumpers were now fitted with rubber strips. Significantly, the 280 SE 3.5 was to be the final model featuring this long-established and much-admired body style. It was truly Mercedes-Benz's flagship model, representing status, luxury and reliability. Today these last-of-the-line classics are highly sought after by discerning Mercedes-Benz collectors.

 

Most elegantly finished in the original colour combination of beige grey (beigegrau) with bamboo (bambus) coloured leather interior, this beautifully presented Mercedes-Benz incorporates a host of desirable options including a Becker Grand Prix radio; central armrests front and rear; heated rear screen; additional spotlights; automatic transmission; electric sliding sunroof; and electric windows.

 

As per the Mercedes-Benz data card (copy on file), the car was sold new via the Munich based dealer (code 226) but its first custodian was a medical doctor based in Vienna. The doctor owned the Mercedes from new until 1989 when the car was sold to its second Austrian owner, who would keep it until 2012 (copies of Austrian registration documents are on file). In 2012 the car was sold via a German dealer to its first German owner, who in turn sold it to the current vendor, a very well-respected collector of fine cars based in Munich. Clearly this car has been looked after all its life, and recent expenditure includes the following:

 

• 2017: comprehensive service by Mercedes-Benz in Munich including a comprehensive brake service; repair of the power-assisted steering; cooling circuit overhaul; installing new engine mounts; check and repair of heating and ventilation system, etc for a total of €14,600

• 2018: overhaul of the automatic gearbox and further smaller repairs, again at Mercedes-Benz Munich €5,530

• 2018: installing safety belts at CarTech Knowledge, Ismaning near Munich €2,000

• 2020: dry ice blasting and repair of some rust on wheel arches including paint, again at CarTech €5,150

• 2021: service with some minor repairs at CarTech €3,050

Volkswagen Golf GTi Mk.2 (1983-92) Engine 1781cc S4 16v 137bhp Production 6,000,000 (all Golf Mk.2's)

Registration Number G 622 HCC )Bangor, Camarthanshire)

VOLKSWAGEN SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623738785355...

 

Note this car has had its inner pair of headlamps removed

 

The second-generation Volkswagen Golf was launched in Europe at the 1983 Frankfurt Motor Show.and launched into the British marketplace March 1984. It featured a larger bodyshell, and a wider range of engine options than the Mark 1 and a more rounded style.

The successful hot GTi model was continued with the Mk2 as a sporty 3- or 5-door hatchback. , it featured a naturally aspirated Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injected 1,781 cc Inline-four engine developing 110bhp, joined in 1986 by the Golf GTi 16v with output increased to 137bhp the model was marked by discreet red-and-black "16V" badges front and rear In 1990, like the Golf, the GTI was given a facelift, and the "Big Bumper" became standard on all GTIs

1990 also saw the arrival of GTi G60 featuring the 8v 1.8 with a G60 supercharger

 

Diolch am 74,960,470 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 74,960,470 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 07.07.2019 at Cars in the Park, Beacon Park, Lichfield 143-150

     

In faded-looking Network South East livery, Class 456 456003 was stood at London Bridge with a four-car service to Victoria via Peckham Rye on October 23rd 1999. There were 24 x 2-Car Class 456's (456001-456024) built at BREL York utilising the Class 150 type bodyshell in 1990/91.

Ford Consul Mk.II (1956-62) Engine 1703 S4 OHV Production 350,244 (all Mk.II)

Registration Number 799 UXT (London)

FORD (UK) SET

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

 

The Ford Consul is a car that was manufactured by Ford of Britain from 1951 until 1962. The name was later revived for a model produced by Ford in both the UK and in Germany from 1972 until 1975.

 

The Consul Mk.II was launched in 1956, with the Ford code 204E, powered by a 59bhp four cylinder 1703cc engine, and again sharing the same bodyshell as the six cylinder Zephyr.

Restyled from the stubbier Mk.I, longer wheelbase, improved weight distribution and bigger engine helps boost top speed to over 80mph.

 

The roof profile was lowered in 1959 with the cars now referred to as low-lina and the earlier models retrospectically becoming high-line. The low-line also featured redesigned rear lights and much of the external bright work in stainless steel. Front disc brakes with vacuum servo appeared as an option in 1960 and were made standard in 1961, with the car titled Consul 375 from mid 1961 in order to avoid (unlikely) confusion with the Classic officially the Consul Classic

  

50 003 'Temeraire' and 50 001 'Dreadnought' are seen working 1V92 the 1428 York - Plymouth ( from Gloucester ) Vice HST, south through Stapleton Road, on Thursday July 28th 1983

 

They were both built by Vulcan Foundry.

 

50 003 entered service as D403 in January 1968.

 

LMWL LM Western Lines 12/01/1968

D05 Stoke Division 17/06/1968

CE Crewe Diesel 05/1973

Allocation recoded CE to CD 12/1973

BR Bristol Bath Road 03/1974

LA Laira 04/1974

 

Renumbered 50 003 15/04/1974

Named Temeraire on 9/5/78

Store 28/01/1979

LA Laira 28/01/1979

Returned to Service 17/09/1980

Store 01/07/1991

Withdrawn 15/07/1991

 

Stored at Laira until moved to Tavistock Junction Yard, Plymouth and noted dumped there on 15/9/91. Moved to MC Metal Processing, Glasgow on 4/4/92, and was broken up

on 30/4/92.

 

50 001 entered service as D401, in December 1967.

 

LMWL LM Western Lines 09/12/1967

D05 Stoke Division 17/06/1968

CE Crewe Diesel 05/1973

BR Bristol Bath Road 07/1973

 

Renumbered 50 001 21/03/1974

OC Old Oak Common 05/1974

LA Laira 04/1976

Named Dreadnought on 10/4/78

Store 12/04/1991.

 

Withdrawn 19/04/1991

Stored at Laira until moved to Exeter Riverside Yard in early January 1992, and then left on 9/1/92, and hauled to Booth Roe Metals, Rotherham, where it arrived the next day for

scrap.

 

The loco remained in the scrapyard, and was sold to Operation Collingwood in 9/95 for eventual restoration. Nothing came of this project, and the loco was resold to Booth Roe

Metals in 12/99. With scrapping looming, it was sold to Adrian Parcell, of Cotswold Rail, in 4/00, and was to be moved to Moreton-in-Marsh, and to be kept only as a bodyshell.

However, circumstances changed and it was cut up at Booth Roe Metals on 12/12/02.

 

buymeacoffee.com/bristolian

 

I hope you enjoy looking through my Flickr images. Please consider helping me pay for my Flickr subscription, and to replace my scanner with something that'll produce better images from the past.

I'd like to rescan all of my older uploads in the fullness of time.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

Thank you.

Ford Lotus Cortina Mk.1 (1963-66) Engine 1558cc S4 DOC Production 4012

Registration Number GLB 946 D (London)

FORD UK SET

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

The history of the Cortina Lotus began in 1961. Colin Chapman had been wishing to build his own engines for Lotus, mainly because the Coventry Climax unit was so expensive. Colin Chapman's chance came when he commissioned Harry Mundy (a close friend and designer of the Coventry Climax engine and technical editor for Autocar) to design a twin-cam version of the Ford Kent engine. Most of the development of the engine was done on the 997cc and 1,340cc bottom end, but in 1962 Ford released the 116E five bearing 1,499 cc engine and work centred on this. Keith Duckworth, from Cosworth, played an important part in tuning of the engine The engine's first appearance was in 1962 at the Nürburgring in a Lotus 23 driven by Jim Clark. Almost as soon as the engine appeared in production cars (Lotus Elan), it was replaced with a larger capacity unit of 1557cc

Whilst the engine was being developed, Walter Hayes (Ford) asked Colin Chapman if he would fit the engine to 1,000 Ford saloons for Group 2 homologation. The Type 28 or Lotus Cortina or Cortina Lotus (as Ford liked to call it) was duly launched. Ford supplied the 2-door Cortina bodyshells and took care of all the marketing and selling of the cars, whilst Lotus did all the mechanical and cosmetic changes. The major changes involved installing the 1,557 cc engine together with an Elan close ratio gearbox, he rear suspension was drastically altered and lightweight alloy panels were used for doors, bonnet and boot. Lightweight casings were fitted to gearbox and differential. All the Lotus factory cars were painted white with a green stripe (although Ford built some for racing in red, and one customer had a dark blue stripe due to being superstitious about green). The cars also received front quarter bumpers and round Lotus badges were fitted to rear wings and to the right side of the radiator grille.

Initially, the engines were built by J. A Prestwich of Tottenham and then Villiers of Wolverhampton. In 1966, Lotus moved to Hethel in Norwich where they had their own engine building facilities

To homologate the car for Group 2, 1000 were required to be built in 1963, and the car was duly homologated in September 1963. In the same month, in the car's first outing, in the Oulton Park Gold Cup, the car finished 3rd and 4th behind two Ford Galaxies, but beat the 3.8-litre Jaguars which had been dominant in saloon car racing for so long. Soon Ford were running cars in Britain, Europe, and the USA, with Team Lotus running cars in Britain for Ford, and Alan Mann Racing running cars in Europe, also on behalf of Ford. The Cortina Lotus was able to beat almost anything except the 7-litre V8 Ford Galaxies, and later, Ford Mustangs.

 

Diolch yn fawr am 67,404,304 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mwynhewch ac arhoswch yn ddiogel

 

Thank you 67,404,304 amazing views, enjoy and stay safe

 

Shot 02.09.2018 at Himley Hall, Wolverhampton Ref 136-094

        

The Baby Deltic Project's replica Class 23 No. D5910 on display at the Barrow Hill 150th event on 28th August 2022.

 

The project is at an advanced stage of recreating a working example of the English Electric type 2 loco using a shortened Class 37 bodyshell and Class 20 bogies to house the sole surviving original Baby Deltic engine.

This Is The Rear Shell Of A First-Generation 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible Coupe Ragtop [76A], In “Dynasty Green”, One Of 73,112 Mustang Convertibles Built In 1965, And One Of A Grand Total Of 1,288,557 “Original” Mustangs Produced Between 1964-’66. The Entire Front Clip Of This Car Was Missing, As Were Several Parts Of The Interior And A Few Other Major Components.

 

At The Time, I Desperately Wanted To Salvage That Iconic Chrome Mustang Badge (Gas Cap) On The Rear As A Keepsake (I Was Just A Kid!), However I Was Told This Car Was “Being Worked On For A Customer”, This Car Was Still In The Yard At Least Three Years Later.

 

There Were Many Mustangs In This Yard Over The Years, In Fact They Had At Least A Handful Of Examples Of Every Single Generation Of Mustang For Quite A While, Including Mercury Cougars. There Were Even Some Very High-Performance Mustangs Such As V8 Boss 302s, 351s, And Even At One Point A Very Rare 1969 Mustang Mach 1 Boss 429, And Also A 1969 Mercury Cougar Boss 302 Eliminator.

 

Jensen Interceptor III (1971-73) Engine 440cu (7212cc) Production 3419

Registration Number PBK 853 M (Portsmouth)

JENSEN SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157624203748256...

The Jensen Interceptor is a sporting GT class car, hand built at West Bromwich, England with the body designed by Carrozzeria, Touring in Italy and powered by a US Chrysler V8.

The Interceptor broke with Jensen tradition by having a steel bodyshell rather than one of GRP.

The original specification included electric windows, reclining front seats, a wood rimmed steering wheel, radio with twin speakers, reversing lights and an electric clock. Power steering was included as standard from September 1968.

The Mark II (1969-71) shared the same Chrysler engine as the original Interceptor but offered revised front styling and ventilated disc brakes

The Mark III had a larger 440cu (7212cc) Chrysler V8 with four barrel carburettor. The Interceptor sold well until sales were hit by the OPEC oil crisis of 1974.

 

In the mid-1980s a new company, Jensen Cars Limited was create with the aim of relaunching the Interceptor. In 1986 their Series 4 Interceptor was launcheced as an updated version of the original Interceptor V8 as a low-volume hand-built and bespoke affair, with prices rising to around £ 70,000 hough the body remained essentially the same as the last of the main production run of Series 3, the engine was a much smaller Chrysler-supplied 360 cubic inch (5.9 litre) which used more modern controls to reduce emissions with an output of around 250bhp. In addition, the interior was slightly re-designed with the addition of modern "sports" front seats as opposed to the armchair style of the earlier models, as well as a revised dashboard and electronics. The company owner sold the venture in 1990 to an engineering company believed to be in a stronger position to manufacture the car; this lasted until 1993 with approximately 36 cars built,. Developement work commenced on a proposed Series 5 Interceptor before the company failed and liquidators were called in

 

Many thanks for a fantabulous

46,372,350 views

 

Shot Brooklands New Years Day Gathering, 01.01.2016 - Ref 111-258

W111

 

Zoute Sale - Bonhams

Estimated : € 260.000 - 350.000

Sold for € 270.250

 

Zoute Grand Prix 2022

Knokke - Zoute

België - Belgium

October 2022

 

"If you feel obligated to ask about the price you not only will never understand the car, you have branded yourself incapable of ever appreciating its virtues even if someone gave you one." – Car & Driver on the Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5.

The fact that the esteemed American motoring magazine felt compelled to remark on the 280 SE's price is understandable when one considers that at $13,500 in 1970 it was not only $3,500 more than that of the equivalent Mercedes-Benz sedan but also more than double that of a Cadillac Deville Coupé!

The 3.5-litre version of the 280 SE typifies the resurgence of larger-engined Mercedes-Benz models that began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the progressive easing of fiscal constraints, which had dissuaded customers from buying cars with large capacity engines, encouraged the German manufacturer to offer bigger, more potent power units. Thus the ultra-luxurious 280 SE Coupé/Cabriolet and 300 SEL saloon were the models chosen by Mercedes-Benz to launch its magnificent new 3.5-litre V8 engine in September 1969. An over-square design featuring a cast-iron block and aluminium-alloy cylinder heads, each equipped with a single overhead camshaft, this all-new, state-of-the-art power unit produced 200bhp courtesy of Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorised ignition. The new V8 engine had particularly smooth running characteristics and endowed the 280 SEs with performance superior to that of many out-and-out sports cars. Thus equipped, the Coupé/Cabriolet was good for 200km/h with 100km/h reachable in 9.6 seconds, a substantial improvement on the six-cylinder version's figures. As befitted top-of-the-range luxury models, the 280 SE 3.5 Coupé and Cabriolet came equipped with automatic transmission, air conditioning, power windows, and a stereo radio as standard.

Although the equivalent SEL saloon used the 'New Generation' bodyshell, the 280 SE Coupé and Cabriolet kept the elegant coachwork that had debuted back in 1959 on the 220 SE. Nevertheless, there had been some refinements made: the radiator shell was lower and wider, with a correspondingly flatter front end to the bonnet, a characteristic that has led to enthusiasts referring to these face-lifted cars as 'Flachkühler or flat radiator' models, while the bumpers were now fitted with rubber strips. Significantly, the 280 SE 3.5 was to be the final model featuring this long-established and much admired body style. It was truly Mercedes-Benz's flagship model, representing status, luxury and reliability. The company's last hand built convertible, these last-of-the-line classics are highly sought after by today's discerning Mercedes-Benz collectors.

One of only 1,232 Cabriolets produced, this automatic transmission Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 features a Becker Mexico radio, air conditioning, and power windows. The car was sold new to the United States and later exported to The Netherlands where it has been maintained in excellent condition. Subsequently, the Mercedes was sold to a Belgian car collector from Antwerp. We are advised by the current private vendor that there are no leaks and that the exhaust was replaced recently. The car drives very well and recently participated in several rallies, including one in Tuscany, Italy. One need hardly mention that it has proven very reliable. Offered with an illustrated valuation report from 2021, the car is matching numbers and its very striking colour combination is original.

Porsche 911 Carrera RS (1973-74) Engine 2687cc HO6 OC Production 1580

 

Registration Number ABW 359 L

 

PORSCHE SET

 

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623690528015...

 

The Carrera name was reintroduced to in 1973, originally applied to the 356 Carrera and in turn came from Porsche class victories in the Carrera Panamerica races accross Central America in the 1950's. The RS was built so that Porsche could enter racing formulae that demanded that a certain minimum number of production cars were made. Compared with a standard 911S, the Carrera 2.7 RS had a larger engine (2687 cc) developing 210bhp. With revised and stiffened suspension, a "ducktail" rear spoiler, larger brakes, wider rear wheels and rear wheel arches. In RS Touring form it weighed 1075 kg, in Sport Lightweight form it was about 100 kg (220 lb) lighter, the saving coming from the thin-gauge steel used for parts of the bodyshell and also the use of thinner glass. In total, 1580 were made, comfortably exceeding the 500 that had to be required to qualify for FIA Group 4 Class.

 

49 Carrera RS cars were built with 2808 cc engines

 

In 1974, Porsche created the Carrera RS 3.0 with K-Jetronic Bosch fuel injection producing 230 PS It was almost twice as expensive as the 2.7 RS but offered a fair amount of racing capability for that pric

 

Many thanks for a fantabulous

50,826,310 views

 

Shot 23.04.2016 Shot at VSCC Spring Start Meeting, Silverstone REF 115-641

   

I had to pay a bit more for this kit than I usually spend. A few things have been put together, but quite neatly and the bodyshell hasn't been painted so it'll be an easy one to build.

The security at EMD Longport is certainly alert! The guard cat keeps tabs on my photography (through the fence of course) of 60014's bodyshell.

 

10-04-2026

56022 stands outside the shed at Wath, 17th April 1979.

 

Locomotive History

In September 1974 British Rail ordered sixty new heavy freight locomotives designated class 56. The order was split with thirty locomotives to be built by Brush and thirty locomotives to be built by Doncaster works. The body design was derived from the Brush class 47 and was of the load bearing monocoque type. The engine (GEC 16RK3CT) was of English Electric heritage and an uprated version to that fitted to the class 50. Although the engine was rated at 3520bhp, in the class 56 it was derated to 3250bhp. The electrical equipment was derived from the Brush prototype locomotive HS4000 Kestrel and consisted of a Brush BA1101A 3-phase ac alternator driving six TM73-62 series wound, axle hung nose suspended traction motors. The bogies (designated CP2) were a Swiss design. Brush sub-contracted the building of their thirty locomotives (56001 – 56030) to Electropuere in Romania. These thirty locomotives suffered from poor construction standards and although 56022 arrived in the United Kingdom on the 17th March 1977 it was not accepted into traffic until the 24th May 1977. This poor construction standard seems to have plagued these thirty locomotives as many were withdrawn from service early, with 56022 being withdrawn in November 1999. Stored at Immingham for almost eight years it was eventually transported by road to the Weardale Railway in September 2007, where it was eventually stripped and the bodyshell transported to EMR Kingsbury where it was broken up in February 2012.

 

Praktica LTL Ektachrome 200

 

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!

The 1956 Chevrolet was the middle year of what has come to be known as the 'tri-fives', as such, it was the first refresh of the 1955 bodyshell. Notably the radiator grille was now leaned forward at the top, producing a longer hood (bonnet) profile.

 

Models were again arranged 150, 210 and Bel Air. The Bel Air Convertible shown here matched the only ope-top bodystyle with top-specification trim. The car shared a long arc chrome strip with the 210 model, which drooped at the tail and split the body in models with two-tone paint. The roof was paired to the upper bodysides (behind a vertical chromed trim feature half way along the car), along with the trunk, while the hood matched the upper bodyside, ahead of the vertical split (just behind the front door), along with the painted surface under the horizontal arc.

 

A range of six and vee-eight engines were available, the V8 was a 265 CID (4.3 L) rated at 170 bhp (127 kW), 210 bhp (157 kW) or 225 bhp (168 kW) depending on the carburetor configuration. Power was to jump considerable the following year with the introduction of the 283 CID (4.6 L ) small block.

 

Other GM divisions, picked up new bodies for 1957, with the exception of Chevrolet and Pontiac. The 1957 was a hasty refresh of the 1955/56, the top Bel Air trim becoming one of the most famous and sought after Chevrolet models.

InterClassics 2020

Maastricht, the Netherlands.

 

Production: 1 of 500 (2007-2009)

 

The Alfa Romeo 8C is a supercar produced by Italian automaker Alfa Romeo between 2007 and 2009.

It was first presented as a concept car at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show and later released for sale for the 2007 model year.

The name refers to the eight-cylinder (Cilindro in Italian) engine (8C) and Alfa Romeo's racing pedigree (Competizione, Italian for 'Competition').

 

Alfa received over 1400 orders for the 8C after the official announcement that the car would enter production. However, only 500 customers ended up with the 8C Competizione and an other 500 with the 8C Spider.

 

The production version is very similar to the concept; the biggest difference to the exterior being the rear-hinged hood. Other minor changes included the front lights, which used Xenon lamps, a standard wiper system, a mesh side vent, and the rims, which had a design that mimicked the cloverleaf logo. The car came standard in Alfa Red or Black. Pearl Yellow and the Special Competizione Rosso, was also available as an option. Paint upon sample colors were also available for an additional charge. Therefore, the 8Cs where produced in a wide range of colors including, white, Maserati range: Fuji White, Blue Avio, Blue Oceano, Ferrari range: Blue Pozzi, Vinaccia (Aubergine), and special Alfa Romeo historic color Grigio Nuvolari.

 

The bodyshell is made of carbon fibre, produced by ATR Group. The carbon fibre body is fitted to a steel chassis, made by Italian company ITCA Produzione. The final assembly takes place at the Maserati factory in Modena, Italy.

 

It is fitted with specially developed 20-inch tires: 245/35 at the front and 285/35 at the rear, fitted on perforated rims in fluid moulded aluminium.

The 8C brakes have been called "phenomenal" by Road & Track magazine, with a stopping distance of 32 metres (105.0 ft), when travelling at an initial speed of 97 kilometres per hour (60 mph). The official top speed is announced to be 300 kilometres per hour but it might be higher, with estimations that it could be around 306 kilometres per hour (190 mph) according to the Road & Track magazine. An Alfa Romeo engineer also stated that it is faster than the announced top speed.

On top of this supercar performance there is the best exhaust sound you can imagine.

 

Source: www.dreamgarage.nl

Allora Stratos Replica (1986-89) Engine 1995cc S4

Registration Number DOO 414 T (Chelmsford)

 

The Lancia Stratos HF (Tipo 829), was 2418cc (Dino V6) mid-mounted engine sports rally car designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone and produced between 1973-78. The HF stands for High Fidelity. It was a very successful rally car, winning the World Rally Championship in 1974, 1975 and 1976 as well as victories as a race car five times the Tour de France Automobile. three editions of Giro d'Italia automobilistico. and the 1974 Targa Florio. Together with it being a fearsome, lighweight Motorsport weapon it was also available as a high performance road car. Instantly recognisable with its striking wedge shape and with only 492 examples built, it is now wildly exclusive and expensive. Sparking a rash of very desirable replicas, perhaps the most common being the excellent Hawk HF2000 and HF3000

 

This fantastic looking example is from Allora (Handmade Cars) of Bushey, Hertfordshire produced from 1986 to 1989. Handmade Cars was a British manufacturer of repica kit cars established by Stuart Gross in 1986 under the brand name Allora. The only model offered was was the replica of a Lancia Stratos .kits came with fibreglass bodyshell and chassis .The basis was a chassis from the Lancia Beta , which was, however, changed to a semi- monocoque. The suspension was also changed a lot. Various engines from AlfaRomeo , Ferrari , Lancia , Renault , Rover and Vauxhall Motors were available. The Allora is even more rare than the original with only around 13 kits built of which only two are on the road in the UK plus a third which has remained unbuilt, two further cars exist one in France and one in Germany

 

This car is owned and built by David Jowsey of North Yorkshire. The Stage One kit was purchased following David reading about it in a magazine article for £ 3750. At the time there were two kits available the Allora and the Transformer, from Frant in Sussex, using a Lancia Beta subframe. The Allora kit came fibreglass bodyshell, chassis, bulkhead, doors, centre section with dash, inner sills and all the nuts and bolts to put it together. The engine he sourced was 2-litre, twin-cam engine from a Lancia Beta with 160bhp when prepared by Guy Croft. The finished car retains the original Beta registration

 

Diolch am olygfa anhygoel, 61,997,456 oblogaeth y Lloegr honno dros y Mynyddoedd

 

Thanks for a stunning 61,997,456 views

 

Danke für 61,997,456 Aufrufe, sehr geschätzt

 

Merci pour 61,997,456 vues, très apprécié

 

Bedankt voor de 61,997,456 views, zeer gewaardeerd

 

Gracias por 61,997,456 visitas, muy apreciado.

 

Grazie per 61,997,456 visualizzazioni, molto apprezzato

 

61,997,456 ビューありがとうございます、ありがとうございました

 

Shot 30-07-2017 exiting the 2017 Silverstone Classic REF 129-346

    

Towards the end of the eighties Vauxhall then a subsidiary of General Motors (GM) decided that they wanted to take on the likes of BMW with its high performance M5 4-door saloon car. Vauxhall already had in its range the Carlton GSi powered by a 3-litre inline six-cylinder engine. Vauxhall asked GM for permission to develop a high performance version of the Carlton GSi. GM granted permission and Vauxhall then turned to another subsidiarity of GM, Lotus at Hethel in Norfolk. In 1989, a standard Carlton GSi built in Germany by Opel was sent to Lotus to improve it, Lotus always gave a code to any project, in this case it was 104.

 

Lotus took the standard 3-litre 24 valve DOHC petrol engine and fitted it with two Garrett T25 turbochargers and increased the capacity of the engine to 3.5-litre which produced 377bhp and 419 lb.ft of torque The standard five-speed gearbox was replaced with a ZF six-speed synchromesh gearbox which was fitted to Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. The standard rear axle was replaced with a limited-slip differential unit from Holden both manufacturers mentioned were subsidiaries of GM. The standard suspension was replaced with the self levelling suspension from the Vauxhall Senator. The braking system was uprated, along with the fitment of larger rear wheels. Even the bodyshell was modified to seam welding from the standard spot welding this was to give extra strength to the body. The Lotus Carlton had a top speed of 177mph and a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds and 0-100 of 11.5 seconds.

 

Vauxhall announced at the 1989 Geneva motor show that the Lotus Carlton would go on sale in 1990 with a price tag of £48,000 and available in one colour, Imperial Green. The car would sold in the UK as the Lotus Carlton and as the Lotus Omega in Europe. Opel built both cars in West Germany which were then shipped to Lotus to be modify. The plan was to build a total of 1, 100 cars, sadly this figure was never reached because of the resection and the Lotus Carlton got a lot of bad press about it's high top speed. A grand total of 950 were built with 286 Lotus Carlton cars sold in the UK the rest were Lotus Omega cars sold in Europe.

 

Today a prestige Lotus Carlton would fetch a price of £50,000. Without question the Lotus Carlton was a special car and an important part of Vauxhall's history.

 

My photograph shows a Vauxhall press car conventally parked over the M1 near Luton.

 

Copyright: Vauxhall Motors Ltd

Chassis n° 904-061

 

RM Sotheby's

Place Vauban

Parijs - Paris

Frankrijk - France

February 2020

 

Estimated : € 1.600.000 - 1.800.000

Sold for € 1.917.500

 

While Ferdinand ‘Butzi’ Porsche is best known for his landmark 901/911 design, he also penned the beautiful 904 GTS coupe. This stunning two-seat, dual-purpose sports car was the first Porsche to wear an aerodynamic and lightweight glass-fibre bodyshell. Its powerplant was the sophisticated quad-cam, air-cooled, opposed four-cylinder engine carried over from the 356 Carrera, mounted amidships. A small number of late-production cars were fitted with six-cylinder engines from the 906. A total of 108 chassis were constructed by the factory, plus a few more later from spare parts.

 

The Kardex of chassis no 904-061 states that it was completed 4 March 1964 and delivered to its first owner through Glöckler of Frankfurt on 8 April. Finished in Signal Red with a blue cloth interior, this chassis was fitted with engine number P99045 (Type 587/3) and gearbox number 904061 (Type 904/0). Its Kardex indicates the car was retained by Glöckler until at least September, by then having accrued 6,500 km. Historical records show the car being sold to a Portuguese enthusiast, believed to be a Mr Dos Santos, who drove the car on a tour of Portugal. Around 1969 the car was acquired by noted French driver Raymond Touroul.

 

According to Rolf Sprenger and Steve Heinrichs’s Porsche Carrera: The 4-Cam Motor and the Early Years of Porsche Motorsport, Touroul raced with this 904 at a handful of events in period, including with co-driver Pierre Pagani at the 1969 Tour de France, where the car retired. Touroul appeared at the Coupes de Vitesse at Montlhéry in May of 1971, finishing 4th overall. He raced twice at Albi, finishing 3rd overall in 1971 and 3rd in class in 1972, which was his final listed event in the car.

 

Circa 1980 the car was restored and repainted in its original Signal Red and trimmed in cream leather. By 1988 the car reportedly had accrued barely 13,000 km. By the late 1990s, the car had been purchased by enthusiast and collector Alain Salat. In 2000 it was entrusted to a marque specialist, who repainted the car Silver Metallic and installed a new black interior. The original four-cam engine was found to have been damaged and was replaced by a period-correct, magnesium-cased, twin plug, Type 906 two-liter, six-cylinder engine. In 2007 it was purchased by the current owner. He decided to restore the original engine to its former glory, yet did not fit it to the car in an effort to preserve it for future use. This engine is now out of the car, has been dyno tested, and is offered complete with flywheel, cooling turbine, carburettors, and ignition system. Following the restoration, the car appeared at the 2010 Le Mans Classic.

 

The car is supplied with its FIA Historic Technical Passport issued in 2008, a significant history file, and a second set of wheels. Presently showing 24,000 km, believed to be original, and benefitting from a clear ownership history, this 904 is one of the most original examples RM Sotheby’s has had the pleasure of offering. It is ready for vintage touring and rallying, with its amazing Type 906 six-cylinder engine, or, should its fortunate next owner desire, it could be restored to factory original specification with its original four-cylinder engine, offering truly the best of both worlds.

Porsche Carrera RSR (1974) Engine 2993cc H6 Production 49

Race Number 51 John Fordy

Registration Number RSR 888 H (Cherished vehicle related number originally allocated for issue from Kincardineshire)

PORSCHE ALBUM

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623690528015...

 

RS stands for Rennsport in German meaning Racing Sport and the Carrera name was reintroduced from versions of the 356 model that were victorious in the Carrera Panamerica road races of the 1950's. The RS was built so that Porsche could enter racing formulae that demanded that a certain minimum number of production cars were made. Compared with a standard 911S, the Carrera 2.7 RS had a larger engine (2687 cc) developing 210 PS (150 kW; 210 hp) with MFI, revised and stiffened suspension, a ducktail rear spoiler, larger brakes, wider rear wheels and rear wings. In RS Touring form it weighed 1075 kg (2370 lb), in Sport Lightweight form it was about 100 kg (220 lb) lighter, the saving coming from the thin-gauge steel used for parts of the bodyshell and also the use of thinner glass. In total, 1580 were made, comfortably exceeding the 500 that had to be made to qualify for the vital FIA Group 4 class.

 

Diolch am 83,018,606 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn 90cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 83,018,606 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 17.07.2021 at Shelsley Walsh (Classic Nostalgia), Worcestershire 147-155

 

Renault 5 GT Turbo (1986-91) Engine 1397cc S4 OHV

Registration Number E 244 FFG (Brighton)

RENAULT SET

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

 

The second generation R5, marketed as the Renault 5 (or "Superfive"), was launched in the SuperMini category October 1984 The bodyshell and platform were completely new (the platform was based on that of the larger Renault 9 and 11), and R5 aesthetic remained; styling was by Marcello Gandini. The new body was wider and longer with 20 percent more glass area, more interior space, and a lower drag coefficient (0.35). The biggest changes were adoption of a transversely-mounted powertrain from the 9 and 11 and MacPherson strut front suspension. The five-door version arrived in May 1985.

 

The Renault 5 GT Turbo was introduced as a hot hatch version in Februar 1985. t used a modified four cylinder, eight-valve Cléon 1397 cc engine, a pushrod unit dating back to the 1962 original (in 1108 cc form). It was turbocharged with an air-cooled Garrett T2 turbocharger. Weighing a mere 850 kg (1,874 lb), and producing 113bhp (115 PS) permitting it to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds. To differentiate it from the standard 5, it came with blocky plastic side skirts. Turbo lag was an issue, along with poor hot starting, and was considered rather difficult to control. The same engine was used, with similar issues, in the Renault 9 and 11 Turbos. The regular 43-litre (9.5 imp gal) fuel tank was considered too small for the thirstier Turbo and so a 7-litre (1.5 imp gal) supplementary tank was installed at the rear left of the car, and the 5 GT Turbo also received an oil cooler, suspension upgrades contributed tp a lower ride height

 

In 1987, the facelifted Phase II was launched changes included water cooling for the Turbo extending the life of the Turbo, a new ignition system which increased the engines RPM boosting output to 118bhp 120 PS.

 

In late 1991 the Renault 5 GT Turbo was discontinued, superseded by the Clio 16V and the Clio Williams.

 

Thanks for a stonking 64,857,245 views

 

Shot 05.05.2018 at Donington Historic Festival, Donington Park, Leic Ref 133-322

    

For my video; youtu.be/c0YytwtxbGU,

 

2-door hardtop

Oakridge Easter Car show, 2012,

Oakridge, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

  

The Buick Riviera is a personal luxury car produced by Buick from 1963 to 1999. GM's first entry into that prestige niche, the Riviera was highly praised by automotive journalists upon its high-profile debut. While early models stayed close to the original form, subsequent generations varied substantially over the Riviera's thirty-year lifespan. In all, 1,127,261 were produced.

 

First generation (1963–1965)

 

The production Riviera's distinctive bodyshell was unique to it, unusual for a GM product. It rode a cruciform frame similar to the standard Buick frame, but shorter and narrower, with a 2.0 in (51 mm) narrower track. Its wheelbase of 117 in (3,000 mm) and overall length of 208 in (5,300 mm) were 6.0 inches (150 mm) and 7.7 in (200 mm) shorter, respectively, than a Buick LeSabre, but slightly longer than a contemporary Thunderbird. At 3,998 lb (1,813 kg), it was about 390 pounds (180 kg) lighter than either. It shared the standard Buick V8 engines, with a displacement of either 401 cu in (6.57 L) or 425 cu in (6.96 l), and the unique continuously variable design twin turbine automatic transmission. Power brakes were standard, using Buick's massive "Al-Fin" (aluminum finned) drums of 12 in (300 mm) diameter. Power steering was standard equipment, with an overall steering ratio of 20.5:1, giving 3.5 turns lock-to-lock.

 

The Riviera's suspension uses Buick's standard design, with double wishbones front and a live axle located by trailing arms and a lateral track bar, but the roll centers were raised to reduce body lean. Although its coil springs were actually slightly softer than other Buicks, the Riviera's lighter weight made its ride somewhat firmer. While still biased towards understeer, contemporary testers considered it one of the most driveable American cars, with an excellent balance of comfort and agility.

 

Rather than the "Sweepspear" used on beltlines of earlier Buicks with the Riviera package, the new Rivera sported new "Coke bottle styling", with the middle of the body exhibiting a tapered tucked-in appearance.

 

The Riviera was introduced on October 4, 1962, as a 1963 model, with the 325 hp (242 kW) 401 cu in (6.6 l) "Nailhead" V-8 as the only available engine fitted with dual exhaust as standard equipment, and the turbine drive the only transmission, at a base price of $4,333;[5] typical delivered prices with options ran upwards of $5,000. Buick announced in December, 1962, the availability of a 340 hp (254 kW) 425 cu in (7.0 l) version of the Nailhead as an option. Total production was deliberately limited to 40,000 vehicles (in a year that Buick sold 440,000 units overall) to emphasize its exclusivity and to increase demand; only 2,601 of them were delivered with the 425 cu in (7.0 l) engine in the 1963 model year.

 

With the same power as the larger Buicks and less weight, the Riviera had sparkling all-around performance: Motor Trend found it capable of running 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 8 seconds or less, the standing quarter mile in about 16 seconds, and an observed top speed of 115 miles per hour (185 km/h). Fuel economy was a meager 13.2 miles per US gallon (17.8 L/100 km; 15.9 mpg-imp). Front leg room was 40.1 inches.

 

Inside, the Riviera featured a four-place cabin with front bucket seats separated by a center console with floor shifter and storage compartment that was built into the instrument panel, and bucket-style seats in the rear. Upholstery choices included all-vinyl, cloth and vinyl, or optional leather. A deluxe interior option included real walnut inserts on the doors and below the rear side windows. Popular extra-cost options included a tilt steering wheel, power windows, power driver's seat, air conditioning, a remote-controlled side view mirror, and white sidewall tires.

 

The Riviera continued with minimal trim changes for 1964 including the discontinuation of leather upholstery from the option list, differing mainly in substitution of the old Dynaflow-based twin turbine for the new three-speed Super Turbine 400, which was marketed as Turbo Hydra-Matic by other GM divisions. This was the first year that the Stylized "R" emblem was used on the Riviera, a trademark that would continue throughout the remainder of Riviera's 36-year production run. Under the hood, the 401 cu in (6.6 l) was dropped as the standard power plant in favor of the previously optional 340 hp (254 kW) 425 cu in (7.0 l) V8. A 'Super Wildcat' version was optionally available, with dual Carter AFB four-barrel carburetors, rated at 360 hp (268 kW).

 

Changes for 1965 included the introduction of the "Gran Sport" option, which included the dual-quad Super Wildcat 425 V8, a numerically higher 3.42 axle ratio, and stiffer, heavy-duty suspension. The stock dual exhaust pipes were increased from 2.0 inches (51 mm) to 2.25 inches (57 mm) inside diameter and had fewer turns to reduce backpressure. The 401 cu in (6.6 l) V8 returned as the standard Riviera engine and the Super Turbine 400 transmission now had a variable pitch torque converter like the old twin turbine Dynaflow had two years before. Externally, the headlamps were concealed behind clamshell doors in the leading edges of each fender, as in the original design. Further back, the non-functional side scoops between the doors and rear wheel arches were removed, and the taillights were moved from the body into the rear bumper. A vinyl roof became available as an option, initially offered only in black, and the tilt steering wheel optional in previous years was now standard equipment.

 

Total sales for the three model years was a respectable 112,244. All in all, the Riviera was extremely well received and considered a great success, giving the Thunderbird its first real competition.

 

The 1963–1965 Riviera met with approval from all quarters, and has since earned Milestone status from the Milestone Car Society. Jaguar founder and designer Sir William Lyons said that Mitchell had done "a very wonderful job," and Sergio Pininfarina declared it "one of the most beautiful American cars ever built; it has marked a very impressive return to simplicity of American car design." At its debut at the Paris Auto Show, Raymond Loewy said the Riviera was the handsomest American production car—apart from his own Studebaker Avanti, that is, the Riviera's only real competition for 1963. The first-generation Riviera is considered a styling landmark, and is quite collectible today.

 

Vauxhall VX2300 FE (1976-78) Engine 2279cc S4 OC Production 25,185 (incl. VX 1800)

Registration Number UYO 796 S (London C) OGS 235 P (Luton)

VAUXHALL SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623863172810...

 

The FE Series launched as the last of the Victors in 1972 despite appearances the car remained the same width as its predecessor and largely on account of its bumpers just two inches longer. Though the new design increased cabin space with extra front legroom and 4 inches more for rear passengers. The new Victor shared its floorpan with the Opel Rekord but retained a distinct bodyshell, its own suspension and rack-and-pinion steering rather than the Opel Reckords recirculating ball unit. The front end incorporated the then advanced detail of having the slim bumper bisect the grille, with a third of the grille and the side-lights (on quad headlamp models) below the bumper line. Perhaps the most notable difference was in the rear doors Opel door incorporated rear quarter lights and windows that wound fully down into the door whereas Vauxhall's designers preferred the cleaner uncluttered look arising from their elimination of rear quarter lights. The Vauxhall rear windows only wound down around a third of their distance before being baulked on the rear wheel arch, but this was muted as a safety feature complemented by he fitting of child-proof locks

 

The VX Series came about in 1976 in an effort to move the FE upmarket, its previous competitive pricing was now causing an imbalance in pricing with the new and smaller Cavalier introduced at a higher price. To try to move the Victor upmarket, Vauxhall upgraded the trim level of the basic Victor 1800 cc to match that of the 2300 cc version, with improvements that included fabric seat trim, a new instrumentation, refreshed interiors. The 1800 engine was boosted to 88bhp. To draw attention to the changes Vauxhall also dropped the Victor and VX 4/90 model names and the range was renamed the Vauxhall VX in January 1976. The VX2300 was powered by a 108bhp 2279 cc four-cylinder engine. In 1977 an more sporty and upmarket version of the VX2300 known as the VX2300 GLS appeared with engine output boosted to 116bhp courtesy of twin carburrettors the car also received a five speed close-ratio Getrag gearbox with dog-leg first gear and was distinguished by with twin halogen headlights and supplementary front fog-lights fitted beneath the front bumper, fashionably blackened side window frames and extra sound deadening

 

Diolch am 74,940,645 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.

 

Thanks for 74,940,645 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.

 

Shot 07.07.2019 at Cars in the Park, Beacon Park, Lichfield 143-136

    

Chassis n° 1E1944

Coachwork by Lynx

 

This car started life as number 3 short nose D Type built by LYNX in 1977. The car was then converted by LYNX into a LYNX XKSS in the 80s.

 

Bonhams : The Autumn Sale 2020

Estimated : € 250.000 - 350.000

Sold for € 184.000

 

Autoworld

www.autoworld.be

Brussels - Belgium

September 2020

 

"The factory fire in February 1957 extinguished the career of the XK SS, a road-going sports car based on the D-Type. As a result of the hiatus in production, and dislocations of plans for new product lines as important as the 3.4 saloon, the XK SS was abandoned. It was a cruel fate for a car that was a true thoroughbred, made in the image of the Le Mans winner, and one of the classic might-have-beens of motoring history." – Eric Dymock, The Jaguar File.

 

One of the rarest Jaguars of all, the XK SS was a spin-off from the D-Type racing programme. To satisfy the FIA's sports car regulations, the D-Type had been built in numbers greatly exceeding the demand for such a specialised piece of racing equipment, and conversion to road trim was viewed as the best way of clearing unsold stocks, hence the XK SS. The idea of a road-equipped D-Type is credited to Jaguar works driver Duncan Hamilton, who fitted a windscreen and hood to his ex-factory 1954 Le Mans car ('OKV 1') in 1956.

 

Modifications to make the D-Type acceptable for road use included installing a seat and door on the passenger side; removing the division between driver and passenger; fitting a full-width wraparound windscreen; and heat-shielding the side-exit exhaust system. A mohair hood and detachable side screens provided weather protection, and, as twin fuel tanks and the spare wheel occupied the boot space, a luggage rack was provided on the tail. The 3.4-litre XK engine remained pretty much to racing specification, producing around 250bhp, which, in a car weighing just 18cwt (914kg), made for electrifying performance. Production commenced during the winter of 1956, but the loss of a number of bodyshells in the fire at the Brown's Lane works in February 1957 severely curtailed the XK SS programme, with the result that only 16 had been made when production ceased in November of that year.

 

Testing an XK SS in 1957, the esteemed American motoring journal Road & Track recorded figures of 5.2 seconds and 13.6 seconds for the 0-60mph and 0-100mph times respectively, which are none too shabby even by today's standards. With an estimated top speed in excess of 150mph, the XK SS remained the fastest catalogued Jaguar sports car for many years.

Like many other legendary sports cars, the Jaguar XK SS inspired a number of imitations. An acknowledged master in this highly specialised field is the Sussex-based firm of Lynx Engineering, which enjoys an international reputation for accuracy and quality second to none. The car we offer is the third chassis manufactured by Lynx and the first of the exclusive series of only nine such replicas built to Jaguar XK SS specification (see email correspondence on file from Lynx and the company's co-founder Chris Keith-Lucas). Its history is known from new; indeed, this XK SS served as Chris Keith-Lucas's wedding car!

 

Built in the late 1980s, this XK SS takes its identity from a 1967 Jaguar E-Type, chassis number '1E1944', which was registered in the UK as 'PEH 670F'. Of riveted aluminium sheet, the coachwork conforms to the original method of construction. Unlike the original, however, the Lynx XK SS is powered by a larger, 3.8-litre XK six fitted with triple-Weber induction and a stainless-steel sports exhaust system. (Its original engine was a 4.2-litre XK unit taken from a Series 1½ E-Type.) Finished in British Racing Green, the car also features competition wheels and a nicely patinated black leather interior.

 

Previously owned by Roland Urban, founder of the French Jaguar Drivers' Club, the XK SS was completely overhauled in the early/mid-2000s and was purchased by the current vendor in 2008. In 2009 the engine was overhauled by Paris-based Cecil Cars, while earlier this year the car received new tyres and the carburetion system was overhauled as part of a general check over (see invoice on file for €4,617 from Prestige Garage in Vence, South of France). Offering breathtaking performance with classic Jaguar style, this beautifully executed XK SS re-creation comes with valid French Carte Grise.

Best viewed 'Original' size.

 

Ilford (IL) EMU depot 'Open Day' 20/05/1989.

 

Royal Mail liveried class 302 (formerly AM2) EMU 302990.

 

The 302s were based on the standard BR Mk1 bodyshell and were built for the LT&SR line between 1958 & 1960 at Doncaster and York Works.

 

The class was withdrawn in 1999 after around forty years in service.

Class 312/1 312795 was stood at Southend Victoria after arrival from London Liverpool Street on May 1st 1980. Based on the BR Mk.2 bodyshell, the 312's were constructed at BREL York and were the last BR EMU's built that had slam doors. The 59 x 4-car units were built between 1975-1978. The last of the Great Eastern batch of units would bow out in 2004, replaced by class 321's and 360's. The stylish 312's seemed to be withdrawn prematurely, the oldest being in service just twenty-eight years. Fortunately a pair of class 312 coaches have survived (ex 312792) and are now at the Colne Valley Railway in Essex.

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.

Four car class 312 EMU 312782 stands at Liverpool Street, 23rd February 1981.

 

Unit History

The class 312 EMU’s were built in three batches (between 1975 and 1978) for outer suburban passenger services. They were the last class of EMU to be constructed using the Mark II coach bodyshell, and also the last EMU’s built with slam doors. This latter feature contributed to their relatively early withdrawal. 312782 is from the first batch of nineteen units built at York works in 1975/76 for Great Eastern services out of Liverpool Street. It was originally numbered 312102 and it is recently ex-works and has lost its all over “suburban” rail blue livery in favor of “inter-city” blue/grey and has been renumbered 312782. It remained on Great Eastern duties until the late 1980’s when it transferred to London, Tilbury and Southend services from Fenchurch Street. It was displaced on these duties by class 357 Electrostar units and was withdrawn in 2003.

 

Not long to RHTT operations now...

 

Making an unusual appearance to West Anglia, GB Railfreight Class 69 diesel locomotive 69006 'Pathfinder Railtours' passes by Elsenham whilst on the working of 0S81 07:12 Broxbourne Dn Tamp Sdg Gbf to Broxbourne Dn Tamp Sdg Gbf via Royston, Cambridge, London Fields and Willesden.

 

Class 69s have come into existing as rebuilds of former Class 56 locomotives, with their bodyshells remaining extent but the internals replaced by those of the Class 66, which GBRf operate numerous examples of 21/08/23

In the gloom that is the 1960's designed London Euston, a pair of Virgin Trains Class 390's are prepared for their next high speed runs to the north.

 

Since their introduction in 2002, the Class 390 tilting Pendolino sets have revolutionised services on the West Coast Mainline, bringing about an entirely new level of speed onto a route notorious for its laboriously winding route. But with such a technological leap, the Class 390 has sadly paid the price for its image due to what it was replacing.

 

The idea of a tilting train on the West Coast Mainline was however not a new one to Alstom when they developed the Pendolino sets in the late 1990's, with the concept being toyed way back in the early 1970's. British Rail first pioneered the concept of the tilting train with the ill-fated Advanced Passenger Train or APT of the mid-1970's. The idea was to create a train that could shift its centre of gravity whilst moving around sharp bends at high speeds, similar to how a motorcyclist leans into corners. This was to not only allow the train to travel at higher speeds on winding track without fear of it falling over, but also to improve passenger comfort levels and stop people being pressed against the windows when taking corners!

 

The original APT was a Gas-Turbine unit that operated on the Midland Region out of London St Pancras, and was later followed by the Class 370 electric multiple unit that began trials on the West Coast Mainline from 1980. A truly brilliant concept, the APT showed the world that the idea of a tilting train could be possible, that is, when it worked. The Class 370 was marred by teething problems and reliability issues, mostly consisting of the fact that the tilting mechanism wouldn't work properly or there would be just general train faults. Coupled with the winter of 1981, the worst winter for many years, and the train's image was damaged beyond repair. Even while developments were looking promising, and with only a few million Pounds required to complete the project, the British Government pulled the plug and the APT was axed in 1986, with only one complete set remaining as a rather sorry museum piece. The train of the future had become a thing of the past.

 

But the developments of the APT were picked up by none-other than Fiat Ferroviaria, who, following the failure of their British rival, developed their own and much more successful tilting train, the ETR-401 Pendolino, which began operations in 1988. This was later translated into a fleet of 15 ETR 450 production units which became the first revenue earning tilting trains.

 

In 2000, Fiat Ferroviaria was acquired by Alstom, who has been building their legendary tilting trains ever since. This coincided with the formation of Virgin Trains following privatisation of British Rail in 1994. As part of Virgin Trains' franchise requirements in 1997, the company intended the replacement of the ageing BR stock of the 1960's with a new fleet of high speed trains that would reduce journey times and up travel quality. As such, Virgin turned to Fiat Ferroviaria and later successor Alstom to provide them with a derivative version of the company's latest tilting Pendolino, the ETR 460.

 

Fiat Ferroviaria supplied much of the content of the Class 390 units, including the bodyshell and the bogies, while final assembly was carried out at Washwood Heath. The tilting technology was developed by SIG Switzerland (later Fiat-SIG, today Alstom). Two electromechanical actuators are used per car to achieve the desired tilting angle on curved stretches of track. The train can tilt to a maximum of eight degrees, at which point one side of the cabin train is 380 mm higher above the track than the other. In contrast to other Fiat Ferroviaria tilting trains which use hydraulic tilting actuators, the electromechanical systems offers lower maintenance cost and higher efficiency.

 

The new trains were intended to run at 140mph, but the West Coast Main Line modernisation programme, which was an upgrade to the infrastructure to allow faster line speeds, ran over budget. Consequently, plans were scaled back, and in a manner reminiscent of the introduction of the InterCity 225, the lack of signalling upgrades resulted in the maximum line speed being restricted to 125mph. Although this (and 140mph) are well below BR's hopes for APT of 155mph, it does match the maximum speed of 125mph for the APT in passenger service (although one APT set reached 162mph in testing).

 

The fleet was introduced into passenger services from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly on 23rd July, 2002, to coincide with the opening of the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester. Over the next few months they took over the Manchester services, and were soon introduced on routes from London to Liverpool Lime Street, Birmingham New Street, Wolverhampton and Preston.

 

With the start of Class 390 operations, the writing was very much on the wall for the ageing sets of trains it was replacing, and thus the Class 390's image began to be somewhat tarnished amongst the railway purists. First to go were the Class 86's of the 1960's, proud high-speed locomotives that were once the mainstay of the WCML, withdrawn from service in 2003 following both the introduction of the Class 390's, and the Class 220/221 Voyager units on Cross-Country services. Next were the newer Class 90's of 1989, replaced in 2004 once Class 390's had been allocated to routes north of Preston. The final locomotive hauled trains were provided by the Class 87's of the 1970's, which held strong until final replacement in 2005, bringing an end to locomotive hauled services on the West Coast Mainline. From then on, the Class 86's have mostly been scrapped, whilst Class 90's were transferred to Anglia to replace their Class 86 fleet. Class 87's on the other hand have since been exported largely to Bulgaria, the few remaining here in the UK either being scrapped, placed in storage, or made into museum pieces. This left a great deal of animosity towards the Class 390's by the railway enthusiast community, who, even after 10 years, still have a strong hatred towards these trains.

 

The service improvements however are something that can't be taken away from the Class 390's as these trains have taken the original and comparatively sluggish 110mph top speed and translated it into the extremely fast 125mph running speed that BR had dreamt of for years. In September 2006, the Pendolino set a new speed record, completing the 401 mile length of the West Coast Main Line from Glasgow Central to London Euston in 3 hours, 55 minutes, beating the 4-hour-14-minute record for the southbound run previously set in 1981 by the Class 370 APT. The APT however retains the ultimate speed record for this route, having completed the northbound journey between London Euston and Glasgow Central in 3 hours 52 minutes in 1984 which included a 5-minute delay due to a signal fault.

 

Since then the Pendolino has become very much a staple of high speed train travel in the UK, and still looks good even 15 years after the first ones hit the test tracks back in 2001.

 

The Class 390 was put to the test however with 390033 'City of Glasgow', which was written off after the Grayrigg derailment of February 23rd, 2007. The accident had been caused by a points malfunction, which, after a failure to inspect by Network Rail, changed the direction of travel from normal and thus resulted in the entire set derailing and plummeting down an embankment at 95mph. The sturdy design and robust nature of the Class 390 has been attributed to the fact that only one person, an elderly lady, was killed in the disaster, whereas if the previous MkII carriages had been involved, the death-toll could have been much higher. As said, the unit was written off, and the less damaged rear carriages of the set now reside at the Crewe Training Centre and are used for the instruction of drivers and train crew. The subsequent destruction of one of the units led to Virgin Trains reinstating a loco-hauled service to cover its diagrams, this being in the form of a hired Class 90 (usually from Freightliner), a set of 9 MkIII coaches, and a Driving Van Trailer. This train operated covering diagrams until November 2014, when it was retired and transferred to Greater Anglia.

 

Since 2007 the Class 390's have had their fleet enhanced from the original 53 sets to 57 with the addition of 4 new units between 2011 and 2012. The introduction of these new sets coincided with the extension of 31 sets to 11-cars, with new carriages built and imported from Alstom's factory in Italy, the first routine 11-car InterCity train to operate in the UK since the 1970's.

 

Today the Class 390's continue to ply their merry trade, and remain vital parts of the UK's high speed network, bringing Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and London closer together than they've ever been before.

Humber Sceptre II (1966-67) Engine 1725cc S4 OHV

Production 11,983

Registration Number LFM 184 D (Chester)

HUMBER SET

www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623665287863...

 

The Sceptre I was introduced in 1965 with a shape somewhere between the Hillman Super Minx and the Sunbeam Rapier, with the former's bodyshell and the latter's grille, quad head lights, dual overdrive and servo front disc brakes.

 

For 1966 the model was upgraded as the Sceptre II with a larger 1725cc engine and an Automatic option, and revised front end styling.

 

A Humber Sceptre Mk II series was tested by Motor magazine, published April 1966, with performance figures of a top speed of 94.8mph, a 0-60 mph time of 12.5 seconds and 19.5 seconds for the standing quater mile

 

Thanks for a stunning 59,883,567 views

 

Diolch am 59,883,567 gwych, golygfeydd, mwy na phoblogaeth y Lloegr honno yn y Gorllewin

 

Shot 28.05.2017 at the Smallwood Vintage Rally, Love Lane Farm, Betchton, Sandbach REF 127-151

   

1 2 ••• 5 6 8 10 11 ••• 79 80