STUDIO434® ADDS A UNIQUE AND RARE RAILTON TO ITS GROWING CAR COLLECTION

STUDIO434® ADDS A UNIQUE AND RARE RAILTON TO ITS GROWING CAR COLLECTION

 1989 Railton Claremont

Studio434®, suggested to be the largest private car collection in Europe, has added a unique and rare 1989 Railton Claremont, a striking coupe designed by the late William Towns, to its growing collection. Studio434® cars have other models designed by the late William Towns including 24 Aston Martin Lagonda “Wedge” models – the world’s largest collection – plus the Hustler and Huntsman utilitarian vehicles.

The Railton Claremont is based on the Jaguar V12 XJS engine and underpinnings and was the brainchild of William Towns and is one of only two Railton tourers manufactured in 1989. The other is the Railton Fairmile, both cars were featured at the 1989 Motorfair, held at the legendary Earls Court exhibition site.

“I am a great fan of the iconic British car designer William Towns”, said Studio434® owner, Rodger Dudding,” and when I saw that the Railton Claremont was available at auction, I had to add it to our collection. It will now sit alongside our other William Towns’ designed cars including the Aston Martin Lagonda “Wedge” models, together with the unusual Hustler and Hunter vehicles”.

Studio434® now has over 460 cars and motorcycles representing models from the early 1900s to the present day. Many of the cards are used in films and tv series including Mr Selfridge, Peaky Blinders and The Crown, most recently some of Rodger’s cars were used in the Elton John biopic Rocketman.

ECURIE ECOSSE LM69 – CREATING A MODERN RACING THOROUGHBRED

ECURIE ECOSSE LM69 – CREATING A MODERN RACING THOROUGHBRED

What if…?

It’s a question that has dominated the history of the XJ13, a prototype built by Jaguar in 1966 in a quest to continue the marque’s legendary run of success in the Le Mans 24 Hours.

Powered by a new quad-cam, 5-litre V12, the XJ13 was Jaguar’s first mid-engined car – and without doubt one of the most beautiful automotive designs of all time.

Sadly, it remained unraced. A combination of internal politics and a change in sporting regulations meant that it was banished to a corner of the Competition Department – mothballed and all but forgotten as other projects took priority.

But what if the XJ13 had been developed and raced? What if this car’s immense potential had been realised?

Picture the scene: one day in late 1967, members of Ecurie Ecosse – the famous Scottish race team that twice won Le Mans in the 1950s with Jaguar D-types – travel to the Browns Lane factory to discuss repeating that success. During their visit, they spot the XJ13, covered up and tucked away. But as soon as the covers come off, they know that they’ve got a potential winner on their hands.

A deal is done, and work begins on a two-year project to develop and build a car in order for Ecurie Ecosse to take on the might of Ford, Ferrari and Porsche at the 1969 Le Mans 24 Hours.

This alternate reality could have been one of motor racing’s greatest stories – just imagine if the money, not to say courage and ambition, had been invested into it. Now a team of designers and engineers have done just that…

The birth of the Ecurie Ecosse LM69

Fifty years on, the spectacular LM69 is to be launched. While remaining true in spirit and sympathetic to the style of the fabulous XJ13, its bodywork has been developed into an all-new design that has its own purposeful beauty.

The quad-cam V12 is the heart of the car, a unique signature that has been designed to evoke the experience of driving at Le Mans in 1969. And not only is the LM69 suitable for track use, but it’s also fully road-legal.

A strict brief was established from the start: the design and engineering team would have to adhere to the regulations of the time and feature only design details and technology that entered motorsport no later than early 1969.

As the XJ13 would have done had it been prepared for serious competition use, the LM69 benefits from innovations that appeared during that exciting era. Composite materials have been used, it’s lighter than the original car, and it boasts experimental aerodynamic devices, wider wheels and tyres, and a much-improved engine.

Only 25 will be produced, in keeping with the 1969 FIA homologation requirements and to maintain its exclusivity. Each one will be individually hand-built in the West Midlands by the best British craftsmen in their field. 

Discover the Ecurie Ecosse LM69

The Ecurie Ecosse LM69 will be officially launched at the International Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace, London on 6-8 September 2019.

The gardens at Hampton Court Palace will be home to more than 300 of the finest and rarest motor cars ever to be seen. The crown jewels of the automotive world – 1896 pioneers to present-day supercars including the LM69.

The Ecurie Ecosse presence at this year’s Concours of Elegance affords a rare opportunity to see and commission a piece of motoring history. 

For further information, please visit: www.ecuriecars.com

ALVIS ANNOUNCES EXTENDED RANGE OF ROAD LEGAL PRE AND POST WAR CONTINUATION SERIES CARS

ALVIS ANNOUNCES EXTENDED RANGE OF ROAD LEGAL PRE AND POST WAR CONTINUATION SERIES CARS

In its centenary year, British automotive manufacturer Alvis adds a new chapter to its legend with an extended range of Continuation Series cars
Two chassis and six body derivatives will be produced according to original Works drawings
Post war cars feature unused chassis and engine blocks stored since the original factory closed in 1968
All cars IVA-approved and road-legal with three year warranty
Order received for five cars from original Japanese distributor

Warwickshire-based car manufacturer The Alvis Car Company is extending its range of road-legal pre-and post-War continuation cars, using key components such as chassis that have been stored for over fifty years. Remaining firmly faithful to Alvis’ original spirit and design focus a century after it was founded, the Continuation Series has now been extended to include two chassis and six body options with post-war derivatives assembled using original chassis and engine blocks unused since production stopped in 1968. Powered by either a 3-litre or 4.3-litre Alvis-designed in-line six-cylinder engine, each has been developed from the original Works designs and, thanks to fuel injection and modern engine management electronics, meets legislation in a number of markets including Japan, where five of the new cars have now been ordered.

Unlike many continuation cars on sale, Alvis has worked closely with VOSA to ensure its range is fully IVA-approved and road-legal. Each model is carefully hand-built at its Kenilworth Works, the home of Red Triangle, Alvis’ service and restoration centre, that was created when the original Coventry factory closed in 1968. At the time, the factory’s stock of chassis, engine blocks and thousands of other components were brought to Red Triangle and have been carefully stored in their original crates ever since.

Each derivative takes between 4-5,000 hours to build and features period bodywork styles created by prestigious coachbuilders of the times: 3-litre Park Ward Drop Head, 3-litre Graber Super Coupe, 3-litre Graber Super Cabriolet, 4.3-litre Vanden Plas Tourer, 4.3-litre Bertelli Coupe and 4.3-litre Lancefield Concealed Hood.

The Alvis series also carries the distinction of being true continuation cars rather than a re-interpretation of something long gone. Alongside using original parts on the 3-litre cars, the 4.3-engined car chassis numbers follow on from the numbers allocated to the pre-war production run. “Our models are, literally, what Alvis would have created had it not halted production for over 50 years,” explains Alan Stote, owner of The Alvis Car Company.  “The factory had planned to build 150 4.3-litre chassis in 1938. As the site suffered serious damage by bombing in 1940, only 73 chassis were completed so we will continue that series, with new chassis, built to the original drawings.”

All models are made to an individual specification with owners encouraged to visit the Works and review some of the 50,000 drawings, build sheets and history files for inspiration. “Blending history with modern technology is a delicate task, which the brand has undertaken sensitively. We are mindful of our original core values that ensured Alvis cars never suffered the fate of so many other British brands, which fall foul of quality standards and gained a bad reputation as a result. We offer a range of desirable options to make the car ideally suited for however you plan to use it,” adds Stote. “It can be a very practical and relaxing way to enjoy a classic driving experience, with added peace of mind thanks to a three year warranty.”

Specification

3 Litre models

• Choice of Super Coupe, Cabriolet and Drop Head Coupe body styles, all-aluminium body over ash frame on an original steel chassis
• 2993cc six-cylinder engine with fuel injection and Alvis engine management
• Five-speed transmission
• Disc brakes all round
• 15” wheels

4.3 Litre models

• Choice of Bertelli Sports Coupe, Lancefield Concealed Hood and Vanden Plas Tourer body styles
• 4387cc six-cylinder engine with fuel injection and Alvis engine management
• Six-speed transmission
• Disc brakes all round
• 19” wheels

Adding comfort to history, the Continuation Series offers a range of options including automatic transmission and power steering on the 3-litre models. Air conditioning, audio systems and servo-assisted brakes are optional across the range. Travelling in style is further enhanced by the choice of a three-piece matching Connolly leather Alvis luggage set

Coinciding with the launch of its extended range, Alvis has signed an international partnership with large Japanese automotive name, Meiji Sangyo, appointing the Tokyo-based business as its exclusive dealer, covering the whole of Asia. In another link to Alvis’ history, Tokyo-based Meiji Sangyo was its main agent in the Far East in the 1950s. “It underlines the enduring appeal of our cars that Meiji Sangyo wanted to be our distributor in the Far East. Knowing how quality is appreciated in Japan, our agreement with Meiji Sangyo is a huge recognition of our values.”

T.G. John began manufacturing Alvis cars in Coventry in 1920. Coachwork was supplied by Cross & Ellis and Carbodies. 

In 1925 Alvis became the first car manufacturer in the world to design and race a front-wheel-drive model. A year later, the Alvis straight-eight FWD GP racing car lapped Brooklands at 121mph and in 1928 Alvis FWD models finished first and second in class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The company started producing and marketing FWD cars that year. 

Another world-first was achieved in 1933 when Alvis designed the world’s first all-synchromesh gearbox and started working on the first British car with independent front suspension. 

After the World War 2, Alec Issigonis joined Alvis to design a prototype 3500cc V8 engine. 

In 1968, the Alvis passenger car division was relocated to Kenilworth after 22,000 vehicles had been built; 50,000 works drawings, technical data sheets and correspondence files are stored there. Through wholly-owned Red Triangle, it continues to manufacture parts, service and restore Alvis cars for existing customers worldwide. 

Synonymous with craftsmanship and innovation from the twenties until 1968, the Alvis name and fame continue thanks to The Alvis Car Company, which produces Alvis cars renowned for their outstanding quality and charismatic coachwork. It started developing the original Alvis-designed 3-litre and 4.3-litre units in 2010, focusing on meeting global emission regulations whilst remaining as faithful as possible to the Works drawings still held at the Kenilworth factory. The company manufactures its new range of bespoke limited-edition Continuation Series and in 2019 has nominated respected Japanese company Meiji Sangyo to be its distributor in the region. 

ASTON MARTIN ACCELERATES TOWARDS GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

ASTON MARTIN ACCELERATES TOWARDS GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

70 years since Aston Martin first raced at the Goodwood Motor Circuit, the luxury British manufacturer returns to Goodwood Festival of Speed as this year’s featured marque. There have been many significant moments in Aston Martin’s long-standing relationship with Goodwood and this year will be no different with Aston Martin showcasing its bold new future and highlights from its past. 

Included in this year’s event will be the global dynamic debut of the DBS Superleggera Volante and the limited edition, Vantage AMR. Unveiled earlier this year, Aston Martin has introduced a 7-speed manual transmission to its true sports car, Vantage. Also featuring dynamic tweaks inspired by motorsport, Vantage AMR delivers a heightened driving experience while commemorating Aston Martin’s 1-2 win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a limited edition ‘Vantage 59’ livery.

There will also be an opportunity to see the Rapide E dynamically for the first time in the UK with the high-performance battery electric sportscar driving up the hill from the First Glance paddock. The first electric Aston Martin, driven at Festival of Speed by Aston Martin Racing works driver Darren Turner, is powered by an 800V electrical architecture battery with a 65kWh installed capacity. The battery system powers two rear-mounted electric motors that produce a combined target output of just over 610PS and a colossal 950Nm of torque.

Festival of Speed will also be the first time that Aston Martin’s first SUV, DBX, will be heard as it runs up the hill from the First Glance paddock. Due to be unveiled at the end of 2019, the camouflaged pre-production will be driven by Aston Martin’s Chief Engineer, Matt Becker, who will put the SUV through its paces as it nears its global launch date.

Included in the Supercar Paddock will be the Lava Collection which features each of the four Vanquish Zagatos in the now iconic paint colour, Lava Red. Between the four V12 engines there is almost 2,400bhp with only 99 Volantes, Coupes and Shooting Brakes built – only 28 Speedsters were made. The project was announced in 2016 with the final car in the series, Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake delivered to customers this year. The four models will be joined by the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation which will be on display in Aston Martin hospitality, adding to the celebration of 100 years of Zagato. Aston Martin Vulcan AMR Pro will also be running, and the current World Endurance Racing Vantage GTE will also be driven up the hill by Aston Martin Racing works driver Jonny Adam who has just returned from competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Other nods to Aston Martin’s rich history will be made with attendance from great racing cars from pasts successes at Brooklands, Circuit de la Sarthe and Silverstone. Each car will feature in the Aston Martin moment which will occur each day of the Festival of Speed honouring 106-years of racing history.

Aston Martin President and Group CEO, Andy Palmer, said: “We are a business that is currently experiencing a momentous period of growth. Attending the Festival of Speed allows us to showcase our latest developments in electric and SUV technology while celebrating the rich history of our past.

“Aston Martin is proud to have been involved in the Festival of Speed since it began in 1993. It’s a nerve-wracking experience every time I drive up the hill in front of the crowds, the margin for error is tiny, but there is such an extraordinary atmosphere that it is like no other motor show on earth. It’s this excitement that keeps both participants and visitors returning year after year.”

For more information on the attractions at the Goodwood Festival of Speed please visit https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/festival-of-speed/.

MASERATI CELEBRATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST INDY COUPÉ DELIVERY

MASERATI CELEBRATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST INDY COUPÉ DELIVERY

The 1st of July 1969 is an important day in the history of Maserati, since the first Indy built for a customer left the Trident Brand's historic headquarters at Via Ciro Menotti 322 in Modena, heading for delivery in Switzerland. The car was shipped to Maserati's Swiss importer of that time, “Martinelli e Sonvico” in Chiasso. A few days later, the Indy, in "oro metalizzato" external colour and brown leather interior, was consigned to a wealthy Swiss businessman.

The Maserati Indy was presented at the Turin Motor Show in 1968, on the Carrozzeria Vignale stand. The following year, the car officially debuted on the Maserati stand at the Geneva Motor Show. In 1968, Maserati built about 700 cars, the best result it had ever recorded since the opening of the Modena production plant. The Maserati range in 1968 was composed of Ghibli, Mexico, Mistral, Quattroporte and Sebring models. In the same year, Maserati achieved a 43% market share in the "over 3,500 cc” segment in Italy.

In response to demand from customers who were looking for a comfortable, habitable and sporting car, Maserati decided to develop a new model. This led to the start of the AM116 (Alfieri Maserati 116) project: Carrozzeria Vignale was commissioned to design a four-seater coupé that would deliver comfort, sporty performances and innovative looks. The outcome was the Indy, named in honour of the 8CTF's impressive wins at the Indianapolis 500 in 1939 and 1940.

The new Indy had large windows to ensure excellent visibility without blind spots, while also giving the car a particularly sleek line. It also featured many genuine sportscar details: the front included pop-up headlights, a real sportscar icon of the time, and an air scoop underneath the slender bumper. Another distinctive characteristic was the truncated rear, reflecting the strong focus on aerodynamic efficiency in the design phase.

Initially, the engine was a 4,136 cc V8 with a bore of 88mm and stroke of 85mm, four Weber 42 DCNF carburettors and single-plug transistor ignition with battery and regulating distributor. The standard transmission was five-speed manual, with the automatic gearbox on request. Its power output was 260 hp and top speed peaked at 250 km/h. In 1970 the Indy was also offered with the 4,719 cc V8 engine, equipped with the new electronic ignition system developed by Bosch. The maximum power output was boosted to 290 hp, with a top speed of 280 km/h.

From 1971, the 300 hp, a 4,930 cc engine was introduced alongside the existing powerplants, and from 1973 this became the only propulsion unit available for the Indy. The Maserati Indy boasted a high specification as standard: leather seat upholstery, mechanical anti-theft system, adjustable steering wheel, heated rear window, tinted power windows, reclining front seats with headrests and iodine headlights. Automatic gearbox, power steering and radio were available as optional. From 1973, an air-conditioning system was added as standard. In total, from 1969 to 1975, the Modena plant built 1,102 Indy cars.

Prominent customers included Abdorreza Pahlavi, the Shah of Persia’s brother, who ordered an Indy in 1974, specifying a number of options including an opening sunroof. The car was prepared to his requirements and delivered at the company headquarters in February 1975. The car still survives and is now in a private collection.

Key technical features of the Maserati Indy:

Production dates: 1969 - 1975

Chassis: semi-monocoque with front subframe

Engine: 90° V8

Displacement: from 4,136 cc to 4,930 cc

Power: from 260 hp to 300 hp

Transmission: mechanical five-speed; Borg-Warner three-speed automatic on request

Braking system: ventilated discs with a servo system

Weight: from 1,500 kg to 1,650 kg

Top speed: from 250 Km/h to 280 Km/h

CITY OF LE MANS RENAMES STREET ‘RUE DES BENTLEY BOYS’ AS BENTLEY CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS CONTINUE AT 24 HOURS OF LE MANS

CITY OF LE MANS RENAMES STREET ‘RUE DES BENTLEY BOYS’ AS BENTLEY CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS CONTINUE AT 24 HOURS OF LE MANS

The illustrious racing heritage of Bentley Motors is being honoured at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans – the world’s greatest motorsport event. Today, to mark the company’s Centenary and the brand’s close association with the race, the City of Le Mans renamed a street in honour of the indomitable ‘Bentley Boys’ who won five Le Mans 24-hour races between 1924 and 1930, and their successors who took the laurels in 2003.

On Saturday, 25 Bentley motor cars from across the marque’s last century will drive the Parade Lap at the beginning of this year’s race. They will be led by the all-new Flying Spur in its Global Dynamic debut, and the 2003 Le Mans race-winning EXP Speed 8.

A trackside display entitled ‘Bentley Through The Decades’ will also be a major highlight of the 87th running of the endurance race this weekend in France. Among the legendary Bentley models will be previous Le Mans race entries, including Bentley Motor’s Birkin Team Car; the legendary 1927 3-Litre No 2 Team Car from the 1930 race and the 1926 3-Litre Team Car No 8. EXP 2, the oldest surviving Bentley, will also be on display. Although it never raced at Le Mans, it is the most successful racing Bentley ever with 11 first and 7-second places to its name.

A new display on Bentley’s racing heritage will also open in the trackside 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum. Honouring Bentley’s six famous victories at the event the display will showcase a replica Speed 8 and Speed 6 and will run until September 2019.

Bentley Boys Honoured In Le Mans

Today, Bentley has been honoured by the City of Le Mans, which has renamed one of its major streets in memory of the company’s illustrious racing heritage. Rue de Laigne becomes ‘Rue des Bentley Boys’ paying homage to the group of wealthy young men who raced W.O. Bentley’s fast and dependable cars in the early 20th Century, and their 21st Century successors.

During the 1920s, Bentley enjoyed great success on the racetrack and also broke many speed records. It brought W.O.s new company front page recognition, none more so than the company’s first Le Mans victory in 1924.

W.O. worked with ‘Bentley Boy’ John Duff to prepare for the 1924 endurance race, travelling to France to watch his car take the company’s first chequered flag at Le Mans. The dashing Bentley Boys went on to win four more consecutive races from 1927 to 1930, dominating the Golden Era of Le Mans racing and delivering one of the sport’s greatest achievements.

After an absence of 73 years, Bentley returned to contest Le Mans in 2001 and won the race in 2003. 

The Mayor of Le Mans, M.Stéphane Le Foll, led the re-naming ceremony and was joined by representatives of Auto Club de l’Ouest President M.Pierre Fillon, Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, Brian Gush, Bentley’s Head of Heritage Collection, Robin Peel and several current day ‘Bentley Boys’.

Global Dynamic Debut of All-New Flying Spur

Le Mans will host the global dynamic debut of the all-new Flying Spur on Saturday 15 June, as it demonstrates its sporting capabilities as Pace Car in the pre-race Parade Lap of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Driven by Chris Craft, Bentley's Member of the Board for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, it will lead more than 20 historic and current Bentley models from the company’s first 100 years around the historic racetrack in front of hundreds of thousands of motor racing fans from around the globe.

The all-new, All-Wheel Drive Flying Spur is an extraordinary Grand Tourer with unparalleled agility. Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Britain, the sports sedan sets new standards for both driving enjoyment and luxury.

It is the very first Bentley to feature All-Wheel Steering, enhancing both stability at cruising speeds and agility around town. The new, all-wheel drive Flying Spur is a ground-up development that sets a new benchmark for technology and craftsmanship in the luxury sector.

Two Special Le Mans Displays

Located on the track’s famous Dunlop Curve, a ‘Bentley Through The Decades’ static display on Friday (June 14) will feature a host of special Bentley models from the last 100 years. In addition to the EXP 2 and the 1927 Team Car, the display includes the Team Blower, an R-Type Continental, a Series 1 FS Continental and the EXP Speed 8 that won at Le Mans in 2003.

Before the start of the 87th 24 Hours of Le Mans, the prestigious Parade Lap on Saturday (June 15) will also be dominated by Bentley cars. Other models to join the all-new Flying Spur on the track circuit will include the EXP 2, the 1925 3 Litre ‘Speed’, the 4 ½ Blower, the 3 Litre Team Car, a Brooklands and a Continental GT3-R.

100 Years Of Extraordinary

From Le Mans victories, through to the incredibly powerful road cars of the modern era, all of Bentley’s extraordinary cars have innovation hand-built into them. July 10, 2019 marks Bentley’s 100th year - an extraordinary milestone achieved by only a few companies.

The Le Mans celebrations are just part of a year-long series of special activities, with celebrations at other events around the world. They will showcase Bentley’s motoring evolution over the last 100 years, highlighting its global success today and the exciting future of innovation ahead.

A NEW AUTOMOTIVE ICON TO DEBUT AT LE MANS – FIRST DB4 GT ZAGATO CONTINUATION SET FOR UNVEIL AT CIRCUIT DE LA SARTHE

A NEW AUTOMOTIVE ICON TO DEBUT AT LE MANS – FIRST DB4 GT ZAGATO CONTINUATION SET FOR UNVEIL AT CIRCUIT DE LA SARTHE

The first Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Continuation – part of the Aston Martin DBZ Centenary Collection – to make its public debut at the world’s most famous endurance motorsport event later this week.

Breaking cover at Aston Martin’s VIP hospitality facility alongside the famous French circuit, the first complete DB4 GT Zagato Continuation – one of just 19 cars being made – will be on show throughout the gruelling 24-hour race.

The production model of this track-only sports car, the latest in Aston Martin’s hugely successful Continuation programme which began with the DB4 GT Continuation series in 2017, represents the culmination of around 4,500 hours of painstaking and meticulous artisan craftsmanship.

As with all the Continuation cars, the Zagato has been created at Aston Martin’s globally renowned Heritage Division headquarters in Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire. Now the largest, best equipped and most knowledgeable Aston Martin restoration centre in the world, the invaluable and highly specialist skills nurtured at Aston Martin Works are perfectly suited to the brand’s celebrated Continuation projects.

The car on show in France this weekend represents the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s Continuation projects to date, and proudly continues the brand’s 50-plus year association with world-renowned Italian coachbuilder and design house, Zagato.

Finished in Rosso Maja red paint, the car’s exterior colour has been matched to original masters created by Max Meyer & ICI, the paint suppliers for the original cars. Inside, the car is trimmed in Obsidian Black leather, which covers the pads in the carbon fibre race seats; door cards, headliner and rear environment. Black Wilton carpets bound in Obsidian Black leather trim cover the floor, stitched in matching Obsidian Black thread.

The new model boasts a larger capacity 4.7-litre version of the straight-six cylinder petrol engine found in the DB4 GT Continuation and, in this guise, is producing in excess of 390 bhp. This is transmitted to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential.

Continuation specification instrumentation and interior equipment such as a full FIA-approved roll cage is standard, as are the Borrani silver painted wheels and polished lips.

Originally built to race against the might of Ferrari in the 1960s, the DB4 GT Zagato was a thoroughbred machine. Evolved for the rigours of motor racing and blessed with a rare and incontestable beauty, just 19 were made. Drawing on the unrivalled knowledge and expertise of the team at Aston Martin Works the 2019 DB4 GT Zagato Continuations are meticulously crafted, staying true to those original Zagato-bodied DB4 GTs produced by Aston Martin and Zagato in the 1960s.

Each car is being constructed to the highest possible quality using a blend of Sir David Brown-era old-world craftsmanship and the sympathetic application of modern engineering advancements and performance enhancements.

A digital body buck has, for instance, been created to allow Aston Martin engineers to examine minute details of the Continuation cars. In contrast, hand-finished body panels of the new cars are each worked from flat sheets of 1.2 mm thick aluminium and representing hundreds of hours of world-class craftsmanship, are created using techniques that were commonplace almost 60 years ago. 

Originally built as an evolution of the short-chassis DB4 GT, the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation follows the same recipe, with those thin-gauge aluminium body panels dressing a lightweight tubular frame in a chassis optimised for track work.

This latest continuation car follows the success of the 25 Aston Martin DB4 GT Continuation models that sold to enthusiast collectors in 2017 and precedes what will perhaps be the most ambitious continuation to date: the Aston Martin Goldfinger DB5 Continuation cars that will come to market in 2020. 

Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President & Group CEO, said: “The development and successful creation of this latest Continuation car is an achievement that should not be underestimated. Indeed, it could well be argued that we are making history with these new cars.

“Celebrating our brand’s deep and enduring partnership with Zagato in this, their landmark year, by launching the DBZ Centenary Collection has been a mammoth undertaking and I’m personally extremely proud of the results in the shape of this new DB4 GT Zagato.”

Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works, said: “Like Andy, I’m incredibly proud of what the team have achieved in making the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation a reality.

“After the unprecedented success of the DB4 GT Continuation cars, we are once again bringing to life the stuff of Aston Martin folklore.”

The DBZ Century Collection will be priced at £6m plus taxes. First deliveries to customers will commence in QTR 3 2019 for the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation and in QTR 4 2020 for the DBS GT Zagato.

NEW BOOK TAKES A LOOK AT THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE SMALL CAR

NEW BOOK TAKES A LOOK AT THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE SMALL CAR

Mini Scrapbook 60 years of a British icon

By Martin Port

Published by Porter Press International

Publication date: 17 June 2019

Softback ● RRP: £20.00

ISBN: 978-1-907085-94-9 ● 176 pages

Format 240mm x 300mm ● Over 400 photos

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Mini – a little car which made a big impact when it was launched in 1959. With its unique combination of aesthetics, space efficiency, engineering approach, and handling, the Mini was the brainchild of genius designer Alec Issigonis, and proved to be an instant hit – not just with the general buying public, but also with celebrities like The Beatles, Twiggy and Peter Sellers, and racers like Sir Stirling Moss. It became a much-loved staple of the British car industry – a position that it has arguably maintained for 60 years and continues to enjoy today.

In this latest addition to the Scrapbook series from Porter Press, the story of this unique little car is broken up into accessible nuggets and supported by an extensive array of archive and contemporary photographs, to illustrate just what makes the Mini so special, so loved and such fun!

Story highlights

• Setting the scene – Discovering why this charismatic little car is so loved around the world.

• From concept to reality – Revealing how Alec Issigonis and his team turned their thoughts from rough sketches to prototypes to production cars.

• The life of the Mini – Introducing each incarnation of the classic Mini, from 1959 to 2000.

• The Mini in competition – Exploring the car’s place in motorsport and the famous racers who got behind the wheel.

• Popular culture – From celebrity owners to appearances on the silver screen – including Brit cult classic movie The Italian Job.

• Tuning the Mini – Delves into a whole host of upgrades and add-ons that were available, including key tuning modifications as demonstrated by Downton, Cooper and Broadspeed.

• Mini variants – The Mini was the basis for many, many variations – from the Moke to the Midas, from the slightly strange to the downright absurd.

• BMW Mini – Brings us up to date, with a look at 21st-century incarnations, including the 60th-anniversary model – the latest in a long line of cars to wear the Mini name.

• Lots to look at – Lavishly illustrated with hundreds of never-before-seen photographs, documents and memorabilia that document the car’s past, present and future.

• A very different sort of book – Dip in, dip out and discover all the fun of the Mini!

The author

Author Martin Port has worked in automotive publishing for 18 years – the last 16 of these for leading classic car title, Classic & Sports Car. Over the last 27 years, he has owned a variety of classics, from a Mini Metro to a Morris Minor, a Porsche 912 to a Series II Land-Rover, and, of course, the legendary Mini. The first of these was a 1968 Morris Mini MkII Super DeLuxe, driven from Cheshire to Berkshire with a hole in one of the valves. The second was a 1980 model rescued from a hedge in Richmond the day that it was due to be scrapped. Thanks to the Mini’s unique driving experience, which always puts a smile on his face, it will always have a corner of his motoring heart.

Also out now!

As well as being the 60th anniversary of the Mini, this year also marks the 50thanniversary of British cult classic film The Italian Job, in which of course the Mini plays a starring, scene-stealing role. Fans of the iconic little car can celebrate this milestone with another new title fresh from the Porter Press fold: The Self Preservation Society – 50 Years of The Italian Job. Written by the world authority on the film, Matthew Field, this new book takes a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at how the film made its way to our screens. It is based on more than 50 in-depth interviews with the cast and crew and lavishly illustrated with hundreds of never-before-seen photographs and production documents.

THE LISTER MOTOR COMPANY LAUNCHES KNOBBLY CONTINUATION FILM, FEATURING A VERY SPECIAL CAR

THE LISTER MOTOR COMPANY LAUNCHES KNOBBLY CONTINUATION FILM, FEATURING A VERY SPECIAL CAR

The Lister Motor Company, manufacturers of the LFT-666, LFP, LFT-C and a range of continuation models, has produced a film showing the road-legal Lister Knobbly continuation being constructed, and driven, at the Lister factory in Cambridgeshire.

All Knobbly continuation models are built to the very same specification as the original 1958 Knobbly racers, using the late Brian Lister’s original drawings and manufacturing jigs, but the car featured in this film has a very interesting story behind it.

The Lister Motor Company was acquired by the Whittaker family in 2013, a purchase that came about thanks to Andrew Whittaker buying the Lister Knobbly you see in the film, registration number 324 JTD.

The Whittaker family has a passion for cars, and it was long an ambition of Andrew to own an original Lister Knobbly. When a suitable car was offered for sale in 2011 a deal was struck, but the Knobbly he purchased was far from complete, in fact what Whittaker now owned was barely more than a Knobbly body and a few boxes of parts.

On the hunt for the items needed to complete the car, a call was made to Brian Lister Engineering in Cambridgeshire to enquire if they could assist with some hard to find Knobbly mechanicals.

As result of that call, Andrew and Lawrence Whittaker received an invite to visit the factory to view a number of spare parts which resided in an old wooden container, untouched since Lister cars stopped being manufactured in Cambridge many years previously.

Not only did that container yield some much-needed parts, it also contained some incredible Lister history, including technical drawings, blueprints, photos and styling bucks…in fact, all that was needed to create Lister Knobbly and Costin models. It was then that the Whittaker’s realised that Lister could be reborn.

Following that chance visit to Cambridge, and the arduous collection of meetings, exploration due diligence and negotiations that followed, in 2013 the Whittaker family finally became owners of five limited companies that now sit correctly under the group company, The Lister Motor Company Limited.

Long before the LFT-666 supercar was launched, the first Whittaker Lister was the Knobbly Continuation, built at the Cambridge factory by the same team who had built the Knobbly under Brian Lister, coaxed out of retirement by Andrew & Lawrence Whittaker, who helped a new, younger Lister team.

It was 324 JTD that was used to develop the continuation cars, providing a rolling chassis to ensure the drawings and blueprints were accurate and as a prototype to evaluate on the road. That car has long since been completed, and features in the film launched today.

All Lister Knobbly Continuation cars can be built to FIA specification and still be road legal, making them one of a small number of new cars you can drive to the circuit, race and drive home again. Despite following an original design laid out more than 60 years ago, the reborn Knobbly can accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds and hit a top speed of 181mph.

A new Lister Knobbly Continuation can still be purchased today, priced at £315,000.

Lister Motor Company owner Lawrence Whittaker said: “Every Lister Knobbly is special, be it an original or a factory approved continuation, but 324 JTD will always be regarded as the car that reignited Lister. This car and the subsequent search for parts led to car building restarting in Cambridge, the launch of the LFT-666, LFP and LFT-C and the opening of a new £5m Lister Headquarters in Blackburn.”

“This film captures the evocative nature of the Knobbly and showcases the Cambridgeshire factory and the glorious surroundings in which it is based. It’s a special film, featuring a special car, and we hope you enjoy watching it.”

The film can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hefaivuvUAE&feature=youtu.be

Photo Credit: Robert Cooper