New
Originally this page was for new cars - This may be offered at a future time
But I have decided a better use would be to show examples of those Questions I have been asked and the answers that I have given over the last 2 years
In addition I decided to add information on the 6 most popular searches on the site per month like I noticed one person or several looking little known info on the Britannia tojeiro
I usually can answer 70% of what is asked!
- Below are some Highlights which I am adding to over next week from April 22nd 2009 (I often refrain from crap word 'Under Construction)
Lately there been a gap since i last did this as I busy collecting Older material from Classic & Sportscar, The Automobile & others addin gnew material June 2010
June entries -Austin Utes of post world war 2 period
Remember this Reseach service is
FREE!!
EXAMPLES
Austin A40 Farnia 1959-1969
Question
Hi Julian Do you have any reviews,magazine articles or manuals covering the Austin A40 Farina series (late 59 - 69)? Thanks in advance... Peter
Answer
in Regard to your question you did not state what particularly you are looking for so I decided to give you some highlights of what I have got.
Buying Feature - The Following references will help
-
November 1981 Throughbred & Classic Cars (GB) Page 18-20
-
September 1991 Popular Classics Page 55-59
-
June 1999 Practical Classics Issue #7 (As of yet still waiting for me to index)
-
September 1999 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 146-147
-
November 2004 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 182-185 Volume 23 Issue 8
Modfication Advice
- DIY tuning amd Modfications advice Sept 1998 Practical Classics (As of yet still waiting for me to index)
Mod Tuned up cars
- Austin A40 MK2 1962-Speedwell Reg 8219 DD; Driving Impression and history of this 2 owner car see July 1984 Practical Classics P50-51;53-55
Race cars Specials
Oldest A40 Mk1 on the road as of 1987
- A40 Mark 1 body number #748 note the numbers start from 101 letter to the editor see May 1987 Practical Classics Page 41
Restoration of a A40 Farnia
- Subject here -this was Former BMC Competitions Reg XOE 778 owned car of 1959 as rallied by the late Pat Moss this was a restoration Saga that began in Practical Classics from May 1980 Practical Classics
I have indexed the articles on steps of the restoration from February 1982 to September 1983 in depth
Update of further entries coming... end July 2010
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Austin A40/A70 Utes or Pickups & A60
This was a Popular search on my site during may 2010 and i decided to add material in June - in addition much maliaged and generally not so well known Austin 1800 Landcrab Ute made in Australia
Austin A40 Ute /Pickup (we discussing truck version as opposed to wagon often discribed as a Utility or Woody Estate (some were steel bodied) -just covering Trucks!
Book Review
- 'Austin-The Counties Years' by SJ Brown & D Whyley; publ by Arthur Southern LTD see March 1993 NZ Classic Car Page 22 Vol 3 Issue 3 by David Cass
Buying Second Hand
I have not found a article for utes seperately - no doubt little known publication 'Classic Van; may have done one but yet to review it
so Buying features on A40/A70 in general more emphasis on the saloons with a just a mention of the commercials
- Jan 1984 Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) Page 34-37
History
Austin A40/A70 in general with brief mention of commercials
- June 1984 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 79-80 Vol 3 Issue 3 by Simon Davis
A40 UTE itself (one derived from earlier Devon has long production life beyond the saloon demise)
I have no test of one new - no doubt likes of Commercial Motor (GB) or Transport Journal (GB) would have such material
to continue (contain Driving impressions , letters etc)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Britannia Tojeiro (GB) 1957-1960
This answers to popular Seach on my site during 2009 (You realise guys if its not on site online you can email me to give you info from the larger off Line index to many of worlds publications 1947-2005)
What information is out there on this little known vehicle?
Best article was a history feature by Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) May 1978 Page 42-45 Volume 5 Issue 8 this a summary that was written by Kit Car Enthusist Writer Peter Filby
Britannia story ; the car that never ruled the roads -Peter Filby looks at the GT that might have been ; includes info on the surviors as of 1978 ; Proto in Blue body with blue trim Orginal Reg 154 BUW built in 1958 but not reg until July 1961 present whereabours Biggin Hill complete but not a runner; the 2nd listed is 1st Production car white body black trim original Reg VXP 210 built 1960 but LHD now in Byfleet in dilapidated condition; 3rd listed is the 2nd production car which is White body with red trim no reg when new built 1960 LHD Ch#0010 now in Michigan USA; 4th car is the 3rd production car finished in Green body and green trim when new Reg 808 HYB ; first Reg May 1960 Ch#0002 ; now in Edenvridge complete but not a runner; 5th is 4th production car finished in red body with cream trim not reg new no other info ; 6th is the 5th production car finished in white body tan trim Reg UNL 417 (Car in colour featured now blue with white roof) built late 1960 sold off by reciever along with prototype now in Corringham Essex restored but not original
Further Information :
HISTORY post script in same issue page 45 of the above issue
Britannia story post script Michael Bowler got Involved in in the Britannia story when a Mr Wyatt owned UNL 417 and wanted further information on the company ; and He drove it recording impressions ; Peter Filby took up the quest for information ; Wyatt had acquired car in 1973 as 250 pound non runner ; restored it with Mays headed zephyr engine ; car should have survived as competitor to the Gilbern GT
COUPE - inq if one survives from guy who was at liquidation sale in 1961 and bought the last one!
Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) 1982 FEB Page 40 Vol 9 Issue 5
Cecil Bendall who bought last from the recievers in 1961 inquires if any others have survived; Unearthed ; ed gives further history
History given by a reader see by F Wyatt on Coupe reg UNL 417
Motorsport (GB) 1973 OCT page 1198 on car Reg UNL 417
History on Coupe reg UNL 417
Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) 1983 DEC 74-75 Discovered section
Coupe reg UNL 417
History and letter recieved from new owner 1983 Practical Classics (GB) 1983 SEP page 31 volume 4 issue 5
new owner who wrote the letter was AF Dawson; Barkingside; Essex
Reader has just obtained Reg UNL 417 first reg July 1961 2.5 litre coupe the vehicle is generally in a good state of repair but unformately all its history has been lost and i have no information on its running gear the car does need some restoration and would appreciate any information i do know car had a ford zephyr engine and a Raymond Mays conversion and i believe a Jaguar gb ; disc brakes all round with inboard discs at rear and all independent suspension chassis # 0002 (or is it according to May 78 T+CC confused) it is 1 of 2 vehicles -quote no photos - Paul Skilleter replies He took photos May 1978 T+CC on same car
As for last known entry recorded by me (but there are now 11 huge boxes of mags that await my attention)
Classic & Sportscar (GB) 2000 APR page 20 not reviewed as yet by me but what I have noted was in the Finds & Discovery section Al body;undergoing res;ex Ragbati collection;2.6 Ford engine
---------------------------------------------------------
de Joux
One most popular searches on my site during late November 2009 to Early December 2009 in light that Ferris recently died (Strange there has been little mention of his death in automotive magazines here in NZ and fact that his 1 off designed and rebuilt by Him 30s Maserati Roadster is currently advertised to be auctioned in coming Bonhams NZ Auction)
So What Have I got with regard to references on Ferris De Joux work
Interview of the man himself by Allan Dick The Cars of Ferris de Joux - The story of a NZ man who must surely deseves to be called a genius" qv
See: August 2008 Release Classic Driver Issue #24
Ferris was better known locally and later internationally for his attractive design of Fibreglass sports body to fit a Mini
References : de joux Mini GT
Design sketchs MINI a preview feature was reported in :
August 1965 NZ Motorman Page 18-19 a feature titled Ferris de JOUX;Mini in a Bermuda Suit
a Driving Impression of de Joux GT Coupe
See: March 1970 NZ Motorman Page 18-19
de Joux GT Coupe later found its way to Germany and photo was taken of chassis GT01
See : May 2001 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 24
The Prototype de Joux Gt Coupe was featured at a NZ Show NZ Reg
PC 3230 its colour was orange
See: October 2000 NZ Classic Car Page 6 Volume 10 issue 10
de Joux Gt Coupe Reg ON5708 red
another de Joux Coupe was seen at a show 1993 at All British Day Auckland a photo of car as part of event report with NZ Reg ON5708 belonging to Warwick Robinson the car was painted red
See: Nov-Dec 1993 NZ Classic Wheels Page 26 Issue 3
This same car Reg ON5708 was also featured in a Profile of car and owner See: October 2000 NZ Classic Car 6-9 Volume 10 Issue 10
and under Readers Cars (owners Experience)
See: Sep-Oct 1996 NZ Classic Wheels Page 19 Issue 17
De Joux GT Coupe - photo - blue metallic car is part of the Mike Maulder collection that was featured
See: August 1999 NZ Classic Car Page 72 Volume 9 Issue 8
De Joux GT Coupe ch#GT06
A Letter was recieved from Murray Sutton of Nelson who is restoring it ;first reg 9th July 1970 Auckland
See: June 2000 NZ Classic Car Page 29 Volume 10 ; Issue 6
De Joux GT Coupe body was for sale 1994!
classified not the complete race version shown , new body stored on delivery pallet $1600ono
See: June 1994 NZ Classic Car Page 91 Voume 4 Issue 6 and phone number given was Auckland 625 8922
Other Cars include
FERRAGUAR SPECIAL
See: Feb 1965 Sports Car World (Aus) Page 40-41 a Jaguar-Ferrari Special
Maserati
Mentioned as part of a feature on an interview with Ferris by Alan Dick in August 2008 Release NZ Classic Driver Issue #24
and October 2008 Release NZ Classic Driver #25
The Maserati Ferris Built Ferris de Joux wanted a Maserati - so he built it
ROTARY COUPE PROTO
See: January 1969 NZ Motorman Page 37 a preview of this coupe powered by engine Edquiv to 1500cc
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daimler SP250 Dart -
New Entry July 17 2010
Over last few weeks of July 2010 there have been a number of inquiries regarding this car that was in production 1959-1964 and was largly killed off by Lyons of Jaguar who regarded the car as bit of a threat to E type sales. The car was not sold offically in the US although were sold there new in Left hand Drive but not under the Dart name as Dodge had the rights to that model name with Dodge Dart . Similar to situation here in New Zealand when the original 15 Opel Omega GSi 3000 4 door sports sedan could not use the Omega name as Subaru NZ had rights to it here on its Leone Model.
The Daimler SP250 had 3 major developments nicknamed today A (phase 1), B (Phase 2) , C (Phase 3)
A 1959 to Mid 1961
B Mid 1961 to March 63
C March 63 to 1964
I have heaps of information to references on this car - below is just the tip of the iceberg
Book References - Book Reviews
- Daimler SP250 and V8 -250 Gold Portfolio compiled by RM Clarke Published by Brooklands Books c1991 see: April 1991 Thoroughbred & Classic Cars Page 120 V18 #17
Buying References
-
Thoroughbred & Classic Cars June 19756 Page 40-41
-
Old Motor (GB) Feb 1980 page 28-30;32-33 Vol 2 issue 2 Cars to Keep ; Coventry Quaint ; Roger Bell revisits the Damiler he once loved to hate ; inc black and white Photo of AHX 880A & colour photo of the car in Maroon with black detachable plastic hard top RHD
-
Classic & Sportscar (GB) Sep 1987 Page 73-80
-
Popular Classics (GB) Oct 1993 Page 19-22
-
Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) Nov 1998 Page 138-143
-
Practical Classics (GB) Dec 1999 Page 128-129 Issue 13 - Buying -Datafile
Owner Experience
Phase 1
- 250SP DART in the UK -eg Reg 755 DLU prev owned by Marquess of Hartford;Peter Cuthbert car All your own work see -Thoroughbred & Classic Cars May 1985 Page 80 Volume 8 Issue 5
Phase 2
- 250SP DART 61 in New Zealand Reg CY2702; Ron Stern had it since new ; My owner Classic & I see: May 1992 NZ Classic Car Page 72 Volume 2 Issue 5
Restoration
Phase 2
-
250SP DART 61 "632 HRH' - David Nancekievill ; Dart Attack readers restoration see Spring 2002 Practical Classics Page 50-53 Issue 5
-
250SP DART 61 See Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) May 1995 Page 76-80 (Haven't documented it yet)
Special Bodies produced or spec
250SP DART COUPE Hooper
-
see 30 October 1959 Autocar P509 a photo of 4 seater ugly car at London Show 1959
-
Some brief history given Automobilia - Mystery car (June 94 CS) identified Hooper Close Coupled saloon 1959 price 1600p new history provided by RW Ramage of Macclesfield while Daimler Historian Brian Smith believes the original was written off on test at MIRA ; but that 5 similar bodies were built in glass fibre (proto was in Aluminum paneled) I do not know whether any were mounted on to chassis and completed did any survive has not been answered +illustration from Publicity See :-Classic & Sportscar (GB) Aug 84 Page 87 Vol 3 Issue 5
250SP DART special GT -MG GT like
- Automobilia - Mystery car question in June answered ; Reader Mr S Hughes of Milton-Keynes Bucks its 60s 4 seat tourer With Daimler V8 power and work of Jim Carpanini your recent featured BMW 2002 owners on Owners view car; around 1965 Mr Carpanini frustrated in his search for a suitable 4 seat GT car decided to design and build his own the result so called Carpanini V8 which appeared in 1967 the base of the project was a written off Daimler SP250 which donated engine; gb ;rear axle ; front suspension and sundry items see Classic & Sportscar (GB) Aug 83 Page 86 Volume 2 Issue 5
250SP DART 1964 Automatic
- a black and white photo of one Reg MD-520; M Douglas 1 of 2 in Aus at the Daimler /Lancaster Club Concours 1980 at Vaucluse House Sydney NSW See -1980 Restored Cars (Aus) Issue 43
250SP Dart fast back coupe 64
- a letter from Terrace Lister; Moosaville ; Queensland Aus ; on his recent purchase ; f/b ht ; fabricated al over light steel rame ; hign std mf ; twin Jag stype tanks ; 3rd to last sp built ; a proto perhaps? See April 1988 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 16 Volume 7 Issue 1
Tests when New
Phase 1
-
02nd October 1959 Autocar (GB) Pages 303-306
-
15th June 1960 The Motor (GB)
-
March 1961 Sports Car World (Aus) Pages 28 -33 - in Australia
-
March 1960 Road & Track in the US
Phase 2
- May 1961 Motorsport (GB) Page 364-366
more to come.... Letters from previous owners , DIY articles etc
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dort
Question
John from Australia
Can you give me some references for a the US Manufacturer Dort as I can find little information on this car
Answer
History
-
History Part 1 May 1989 Cars & Parts (US) Page 26-28;30 Volume 32 Issue #5 by Menno Duerksen
-
History Part 2 June 1989 Cars & Parts (US) Page 56-59 Volume 32 Issue #6 by Menno Duerksen
-
History Dort f/up don't forget Charlie Nash Letter Cars & Parts (US) Feb 1990 Page 168 Volume 33 #2 letter by Frank E Wrenick; -Pres Nash Club of America ; Clevland Heights Ohio
I recommend you contact Cars & Parts Magazine
See under 'Magazines' for details of their address
Actual Dort Cars
-
1918 3 seat Roadster in Australia Restored Cars (Aus) Sep -Oct 1974 Page 44 Issue #6 David S Bristow of 25 O' Loughin Road; Valley View; Adelaide South Australia 5093 writes of his of the remains of one and connection to engines of Besst as in RC #2 Vol 1 & reply sent by editor
-
The Same Guy wrote to Beaded Wheels in in NZ Aug-Sep 1976 Beaded Wheels (NZ) -its the NZ Vintage car club publication Page 33 Issue 101
-
1919 touring came up for sale in the US December 1988 Cars & Parts (US) Classified on page 67 Vol 31 #12 classif part of cache of vintage cars for sale by Tri-Car Sales Fowler II 62338 - Perhaps dealer is still contactable today??
-
1922 Model 19 Tourer 4 seater Another Australian car - Photo see Jan-Feb 1975 Restored Cars (Aus) Page 38 #8 Kevin Holding car at the 4th Riverland Rally Oct 12th-14th 1974 part of a photographic feature of this event showing some of the cars - Kevin car has body built by Murray Aunger Co LTD ;Adelaide and 95864 Car Number with engine #K129904 Lycoming 4 first owner
-
Mr Aunger Car was again featured in 1997 with new owners Restored Cars (Aus) Nov-Dec 1997 Page 38-39;60 Issue #125 Feature included History of Marque Plus information of what parts are interchangeable with other makers and featured vehicle 1922 same vehice featured in a photo in 1974 RC #8 ! Featured vehicle has comprehensive ownership history of all owners to present and mentions current owner has traced whereabouts of others in Australia and also has as at 1997 a 1923 Dort half restored with a Hershel Spillman engine another rolling chassis of similar vintage; 1916-1918 chassis
-
1924 Six 4D 4-5 seat tourer see Jun 1986 The Automobile (GB) Page 55 Vol 4 #4 Meetings: Colour photo of car ; at 4th annual Veteran and Vintage Display Gledswood Winery NSW March 1986 ; just south of Sydney part of a report
-
1926 Six motor gb was for sale here in NZ see Nov-Dec 1976 Beaded Wheels (NZ)Page 38 Issue #102
I believe I may added Dort info post 2006 this may be on the web site -to add
Other sources recommend :
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiat 125T 4 door saloon -Special performance limited model built up by New Zealand Fiat Dealer Torino Motors in 1972 so a number could compete in local saloon car racing
1608cc 4 speed manual Car usually available only in Yellow
References
Brief History on Vehicles Development
- See: 2005 NZ Classic Driver Pages 6;8 Issue no 9 : Details-Comments from the margin by Allan Dick ; brief history
Tests When the Vehicles were new
January 1973 NZ Motorman Page 10-12 Volume 18 Issue 1 : Details Reg GH 399; Furious Fiat 125T supplied by Town & Country Cars LTD Nelson St Auckland
* For Kiwis Wellington Turnbull Library in Molesworth ST has the Issue
Comment from a owner at the time
Letter to Editor
- See: April 1974 Modern Motor (Aus) Page 84 Volume 20 Issue 11 Details: Reg GJ 6949;owner from new gives details;Trevor Jones;NZ
Features in Magazines in more Modern Times
- Driving Impression and history in More Modern Times -1972 car See: June 1998 NZ Classic Car Pages 58-61 Volume 8 Issue 6
One that turned up for sale
- See: July 1994 NZ Classic Car Page 102 Volume 4 Issue 7 Details: A 1973 car: classified +small bw photo ; rare ; body number 2518; 10000m on major rebuild of motor and body includes (Note by Sep 94 nzcc page 117 price dropped to $5300)
*Today a car like this would fetch close to to $20,000!
I Think one turned up recently for sale -mentioned in recent issue of NZCC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiat 130 Coupe
New Entry
Des from Australia during January 2010 and John for the UK 6 months ago asked for test references for the Fiat 130 Coupe 1973
Both the UK and Australia got RHD (Right Hand Drive Cars)
one UK new car now resides in NZ
There is ex British car Reg MUA 111L that is now in NZ that was featured November 1990 Classic & Sportscar (GB) a write up of car here was done on March 1999 NZ Classic Car P2-6 Volume 9 Issue 3 : Reg MUA 111L;current owner Simon Kemp-Roberts
Here In New Zealand very few were bought into the country probably less then 1/2 a dozen although we did get the 130 4 door Sedan around 20 were thought to be imported - Mr Harding of Harding Signals (The guys that build all the traffic lights) of Eastbourne Wellington bought a dark blue sedan new around 1974
References -
(Tests when new Listed below are not necessary 1973 model)
Australia
There was a Small market for RHD version
130 COUPE AUTO 3.2 1973
130 COUPE AUTO 3.2 1974
- Februrary 1975 Modern Motor (Aus) Page 40-46;78-79
Brief comparsion test with 10 other cars; Reg. HCI -771 (NSW); vs Alfa Romeo Montreal;BMW 3.0CSA;Citroen SM;Daimler D6;Ferrari 365GT4;Jaguar E V12;Jensen Interceptor;Lamborghini
Espana;mb 450SLC;Rolls Royce Silver Shadow S1
In the UK / GB (GB=Great Britain)
130 COUPE AUTO 3.2 1972
130 COUPE AUTO 3.2 1973
- 3rd Februrary 1973 Motor (GB) Page 4-9 Issue 3669
Reg LUV 246K RHD
130 COUPE AUTO 3.2 1975
- March 1976 Motorsport (GB) Page 247 after 2000 miles -Long Term test
--------------------------------------------------------------
Ford Cortina GXL - One most popular searches on my site during October 2009
Built in the UK only I not aware of them been available CKD in other countries Although a 6 cylinder version may have been produced by Ford Australia for the Australian Market but I believe that was later model XLD
The Cortina GXL refers to the so called Mark 3 or TC (Coke bottle look) which was in production in the UK 1970-1976 However GXL was top model of The Cortina Range (it replaced the MK2 1600E) and was only around 1970-1973 when the Cortina range was facelifted (known as TD) and GXL was replaced by E model
The Cortina GXL was identified externally by Dual Round Head Lights more chrome surround rear and front area more luxurious interior most had vinyl roofs - However their was a cheaper Luxury variant called the XL which was not as highly speced
The Variants were a 2 door saloon now very rare; Crayford Engineering converted some of these 2 doors to Convertibles; most common was a 4 door sedan and they may have been a wagon (As the later 2000E was produced as one on a limited run probably for Ford Executives!)
The 2 door modelled by Corgi's Diecast range in 1970s which featured the Later World Champion Race Car Driver Graeme Hill on the Box whom may have owned one and at time fronted a number of Ford Adverts - The Model was available in Bronze metallic with black roof or blue metallic
The Cortina GXL was mainly sold as a 2L - However 1.6 Variant was also produced (it may have been introduced from 1973 as run out model) as recently discovered when documenting a 1988 issue of Practical Classics one turned up for Sale
See : December 1988 Practical Classics Page 142 Vol 9 #8
in classifieds -its was a 1973 Model Reg NKM 666M a 4 door sedan
There also a number that was converted to 3 Litre V6 Power by Jeff Uren who produced the Savage conversion. Here in New Zealand I heard of a rare 2 door model that had been purchased via Paupa New Guinea and was somewhere in Alicetown Lower Hutt car was discribed as yellow -efforts to find it have been Zero at this stage!
Although during Chrismas 2009 I saw it on other side of road opposite direction coming down the motorway it was yellow with black vinyl roof with cloth back folding sunshine roof - but i could not make out reg car was going too fast...!
References
Road Tests for 2000cc OHC model
Funnily I not found a individual road test for the car from either Motor or Autocar!
However Autocar & Motor did do a Long Term Test a car over a Year and here is reference for one of those reports & a comparsion test
-
Cortina 2000 GXL 4 door 1972 manual 23rd November 1972 Autocar Page 51-54 Volume 137 Issue 3991 Reg Reg PWC 868K; after 17000miles by Jeff Daniels
-
Cortina 2000GXL 4 door 1973 Automatic a Comparsion test with 23 other medium sized cars see 12th April 1973 Autocar Page 34-41
-
Cortina 2000GXL modified by Lloyds? done by Motor Magazine -I have not reviewed as of yet) see: 5th May 1973 Motor Magazine (GB)
In later publications
- Cortina 2000GXL 4 door 1972 featured in Practical Classics under section titled 'Readers Classics' when present days owners of time discuss their ownership experience and any history of the car see: January 2002 Practical Classics Page 69 Issue 1 -Readers Car Reg PYR 715L; yellow ; owned by Peter Redfern of Berkshire
Crayford Convertible conversion version
2 turned up for sale in Practical Classics 1984:
-
2000GXL Convertible Auto - no year was given See; March 1984 Practical Classics Page 89 Volume 4 Issue 11 in classifieds discribed as:classified but no photo; yellow superb ; immaculate looking new hood and tonneau ; electric windows; radio twin lights mot 995p (raised price 1095p in may 84 prac cl classified page 88) and the seller had this UK telephone number: Tel 01-740 0933 UK
-
2000GXL Convertible - See August 1989 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 149 Volume 8 Issue 5 discribed as seen in earlier issue of Practical Classics (not reviewed by me yet) 1950pounds from a seller tel o580 area and car has a new engine
Readers Car - Featured
- Cortina 3000 GXL Convertible 1972 (clearly Savage conversion or is it private?) Readers Cars Section See: September 2007 Practical Classics Page 62 : Readers Cars - Brought by Dwain White of Avon via previous owner in Manchester via Ebay The reg is: BJA 156K the car is red
Savage Conversions
No references at this stage - all my references refer to the GT Cortina Version
---------------------------------------------------------------
Ford Model T "New Beauty"
Brian from New Zealand
Question
I would like a good picture of a Ford Model T "New Beauty" for a family autobiography.Was the "New Beauty " title only for the 1927
model?
Been not a Ford Expert but I would say the Beauty was for the 1927 year only as 'run-out model' loaded with extras as standard as sales were begining to wane particularly with the news that the Model A was been released in 1928
See
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Model_T
I know the magazine Cars & Parts of the US has a Ford Expert on the staff in fact a entire column in magazine is devoted to 'Ford News' particularly they regularly have information on the Model T on. I am sure they would be able to help clarify how many New Beauties were created and why?
I had a look around my database with regard to 1927 car (you have not stated whether its a Tourer; Roadster or Coupe)
In terms of readily accessible photograph the only one that comes to mind apart from a couple in Restored Cars (Aus) in the 1970s a Coupe 1927 and a Tourer (these are not availble here in any library although Eddie Ford the Pulisher of Restored Cars often comments that all back issues are still available! Pity this guy does not have a email address)
Otherwise there is one that appeared in NZ Classic Car
is a Driving Impression History of a Readers Car in Aug 1994 NZ Classic Car Volume 4 Issue 8 Page 101 (now I have not reviewed this article yet nor do i have it) its a 1927 Tourer? -, As I am currently going through the gaps through NZ Classic Cars of period in the main most of the photographs were black and white photos and quality then was pretty poor due to poor paper material as well
Your best bet is looking on the web I found a great site for Model T Photos in colour and high quality
http://oldcarandtruckpictures.com/ModelTFord/
or you could join the excellent forums that I am member of (its free to join you do not have to be in the club)
of Antique American Automobile
or Hemmings
and ask for a fellow owner to send you a photo of his car?
Well I hope I have been of service - If you like what you recieve tell others about me
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ginetta G15 New Entry July 17
During July a inquiry on a similar car at the Hayes Museum
Ginetta is an unusual brand here in New Zealand but one of few specialist kit car manufacturers that has had a long life although the original company folden around 1982 The firms earlier G4 was revived by Dare and a special V8 G33 was also devised
As GI5 the subject this was released in 1969 and produced largely unchanged until 1974 and available in Kit or fully built up. Its basis was the Hillman Imp 850cc and 998cc engines and many were competitive raced at club level. Those in New Zealand number around 2 one of which is white
References G15 & G15S
Buying
- I don't appear to have a full buying article -Although November 1996 Practical Classics P129 Issue 12 did a brief Buying tips pros vs cons
Driving Impression
- G15 at January 1969 Motorsport (GB) Page 52-53
Driving Test
- 7th Feb 1970 Motor (GB) Page 44-49
Driving Test Comparsion
- 10th Jan 1970 Motor(GB) Page 11-17 vs MG Midget; Honda S800;etc
to continue
Restoration
- G15 Coupe See April 1990 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 106-111 (not documented by me yet)
More to come ...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9
(Another popular search Oct 2009)
This was replacement for the 300SEL 6.3 that was in production 1968-1972 although the 450SEL 6.9 did not emerge until 1975
thr 6.9 was based on 6.3V8 engine and used the 450SEL body
The model was sold in mainly Europe and the US ; The car was mainly sold Left Hand Drive
a number were sold in the UK. Elsewhere there are very few - one turned up for sale in Australia and few were sold their new and around 2 are believed to be in New Zealand as of 2000 I believe a few more have been added since
References
Buying Second Hand - Short Feature
- July 1993 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 132+ (as of yet have not documented yet but soon) -Fact File
Driving Comparsion - in Australia (car was a few years old)
- See May 1980 Australian Motor ManualPage 32-39 vs R/Royce Silver Shadow S1 ;Lincoln Continental mark 4
Driving Impressions when new in GB ie UK
-
See 18th August 1979 Motor (GB) not reviewed as of yet by me
Driving Impressions when new in Germany
-
See: August 1975 Wheels (Aus) Page 24-26 Volume 43 Issue 3 car carried reg S-CE 7714 written by Jerry Sloniger
-
See:September 1975 Modern Motor (Aus) Page 56-58 Volume 22 issue 4 where Reg S-CD 3608 & S-CH 5365 featured
-
Short piece written by Tech Editor of Autocar -See: 17 May 1975 Autocar(GB) Page 27
-
See: Motor Road Test Annual (GB) 1977 Page 40-42 (Motor drove one in one magazines 1976?) Magnident Mercedes Reg S-CE 7714 (D); by Gordon Bruce
Driving Impression in Italy with Fangio Driving it!
- See: Christmas 1978 issue of Australian Motor Manual Pages 50-53
Driving Impressions in USA as car came available there from 1977
See: July 1977 Motor Trend (US) Pages 67-70
Road Tests
- If you can read German : 1975 Auto Motor und Sport issue #21
In English
UK market appeared later import from 1979
- See 24 March 1979 Autocar (GB) P27-31
In English -US Market
-
July 1977 Road & Track (US) Page 46-49 Volume 28 Issue 11 but with straggled Us emissions! 250bhp on
-
August 1977 Motor Trend (US) Pages 43-44;46,48
Featured in More present times in Classic Magazines
In the UK
Driving Impression
- See May 1994 Throughbred & Classic Cars Page 56-60 (not reviewd by me as at present)
Brief Used Tested
In the US
- Comparsion impression : 450SEL 6.9 1978: See March-April 2006 Motor Trend Classics (US) Page 66-73 Issue: 4 : Three pointed stars comparsion va 1971 Mercedes Benz 300SEL 6.9 vs 1992 Mercedes Benz 500E feature by Matt Stone; this particular first owner was: Reggie Jackson (Baseball Hall of Famer) and its present is anon! Car is Olive metallic
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Suzuki Kizashi
This is first new car I have covered as I believe readers 'clicking' on the 'search' tab basically would reproduce what i got here anyway
Besides Q & A covers material from my bigger off line database publications 1947 -2005 which includes Classic & vintage cars and trucks not available online
The most popular New car searched on my site in May 2010 and already in the first week of June and strangly not one of major players in publishering world in this country has done a test on one!!
What the hell is happening??
Suzuki has finally got a vehicle available now and is giving the world notice that now have a potenial world class medium Executive car to take on the Europeans.
example - I thought NZ Autocar would produce the first test
NZ Autocar my most popular magazine search seems to have too close relationship with BMW and over the last few issues makes me wonder if I am reading The BMW magazine!
What is there so far out there - Not a lot (I guess its early days and I am bit too critical its been in the press since May?)
News Section
New Cars Launched
-
-
Suzuki Kizashi 2.4 Limited which is the top model in Mid size or as it called by Industry the D-Segment - the magazine 'tested' a car with Toyota Camry Sportivo and Mazda6 Limited on Hampton Downs circuit in the wet (are we going to see a proper comparsion in a later issue perhaps?) prices start from $35,990 drive away for GLX while Auto only Limited 'tested' here sells for $42,990. See June 2010 NZ Company Vehicle Issue 105
http://www.carmagreviews.co.nz/NonCMS/Review.aspx?MagReview=823
Tests?
- Sabrina from Suzuki says that journalists are booking cars now for July
----------------------------------------------------------------
Suzuki SC100 1972-1983c (also called Suzuki Fronte Coupe)
The Suzuki Sc100 can trace its orgins back to SUZULIGHT 3D 360CC of 1958 been first car Suzuki developed which developed into SUZ-ULITE with various changes until replaced by Suzuki Fronte in 1969
The SC100 was Coupe valiant first released to Japanese market in 1972 and overseas markets like UK in 1973 and had long production life for Jap car until 1980. These days the car has growing enthusist base. Quite few ended up in New Zealand. One Recently was at NZ Hot Rod Show repowered by a 3.0V6 Ford Essex engine and has also recently turned up for sale
References
Buying Tips Feature
- May 2001 Practical Classics (GB) Page 90-91 Issue 6 : Data File by David Lillywhite; Reg VGV 695X was the car featured late 1980 model
From the Press when the Car was New -1973-1974
News - Released to NZ Market in 1973 See:
- April 1974 NZ Motorman Page 47 Volume 19 Issue 4 : to be released on to NZ market - brief - Industry News
Road Test (more a Driving Impression) -Japan
- July 1973 Motor Magazine International (J) but its in English Page 98-99 Volume 1 Issue 3 -*** A Magazine way ahead of its time it great pity it only appears to have been around 1973-1974 I have it in my private library
Road Test -NZ
- April-May 1974 NZ AA Motor World Page 50-51 the car tested was Reg HD 8884 does it still surive today?
* For Kiwis -a copy can be seen at Palmerston North National Library in Tremaine Avenue (The place where we teachers recieve the school journals from and where our books we have ordered on our students behalf are co-ordinated from -there is a missing box from Welington National Library containing 9-12 magazines -for some reason placed here!)
** AA NZ may have it?? (they are very vague what they got..) but they would charge for the photocopy service
From the Press in More Modern Times
Comparsion
- FRONTE 360 GS Coupe 1972 this car is special as it was 1 of few Sukuki GB bought in for evaluation; See for details of this rare car ;car is red/black RYY 983K and Tim Smith owned see March 2002 Practical Classics (GB) Page 24-31 Issue 3 : Honda Beat; Honda S800 Coupe ;Suzuki SC100 Coupe ; Suzuki Cap'; side by side -mad Japanese cars by Kevin Leaper
From the Press when the Car was New -1979-1983
Letter from a British Enthusistic owner
- See March 1982 CAR (GB) Page 8 : Ian Thomas; Radcliffe ; Manchester tells of his delight buying ione in Aug 1981
Road Tests
-
08 March 1980 Autocar Page 26-31 (not reviewed by me as of yet I onlyup to Feb 75 at present..)
-
Motor Road Test Annual 1980 (test conducted by Motor 1979) The Test written up 20th October 1979 Motor Page 22-27
* For Kiwis regarding the Annual (Which is all printed tests for the year) -a copy can be seen at Palmerston North National Library in Tremaine Avenue - they have most of the Motor *& Seperate Autocar Test annuals
From the Press in More Modern Times
Comparsions
-
A Comparsion driving impression and history feature vs vs Daihatsu Mira; Honda S800 Roadster ; Honda Beat Roadster See:December 1998 Classic & Sportscar (GB) -not reviewed by me as of yet
-
Another Comparsion 1983 car See March 2002 Practical Classics Page 24-31 Issue 3: vs Honda Beat; Honda S800 Coupe ;Suzuki Fronte 360 GS CP Coupe; Suzuki Cap'; side by side -mad Japanese cars by Kevin Leaper. Featured car is Reg UPN 666Y in black and owned at the time by Samatha Brown
Magazine Staff Saga Running Report
- FRONTE COUPE SC100 GX 81: Chris Rees road report Reg KMH 645W See: Dec 1990 Your Classic (GB) Page 66
**** Your Classic later merged with Classic & Sportscar (GB)
Readers Owners Experience -Letter
- FRONTE COUPE SC100 GX 81 Reg RVF 494W;Robert Green ;Attebough brief exp of ownership where he rolled his!See: June 2001 Practical Classics (GB) Page 20 Issue 7
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vanden Plas 4.0R 1964-1968
This was the top of Range of Big Farnia styled British cars produced by British Motor Corporation in the UK
Other Big Farnia's were the Austin Westminister; Wolseley 6/99 later 6/110 but these used 2.9 Litre BMC engine
The 4.0 R was a improved version of Vanden Plas 3.0 Mk2 and - Quite few body changes - gone with the fins and car had a more squareish slab appearance
The car was also fitted with a 4 Litre 6 cylinder Rolls Royce Engine where its orgins was commercial based and found its way mainly in miltary applications like the Austin Champ
The 4.0 engine was never fitted into a actual Rolls Royce Car!!
The 4.0R Did not have a Rolls Royce Grill either - If you are offered one - Run! As Rolls Royce takes a dim view of this procedure!
How did it come about Rolls Royce which included Bentley were in discussion and quite a bit of development did take place in looking to build a cheaper Rolls Royce using dare I say The Austin 3 Litre (one based on 1800 Landcrab but rear wheel drive!)
The Main Version was a 4 door sedan ; 1 was converted to a Coupe for Winston Churchcill (sadly destroyed a few years ago on Banger circuits of Essex!) while 7 were converted as Wagons 1 going to the Queen who still owns it
The Market for the car - mainly sold to Doctors; Lawyers and Bank Managers
The Car was sold in the UK but a some were exported to mainly Common Wealth countries of Australia and New Zealand - From what I gather here in New Zealand a lot more were sold here and there is a very high surival rate (I for years - been keeping track of number that turn up for sale in NZ Publications)
However a few have turned up in North America in Left Hand Drive Form from what I understand they were very expensive. They may come via Canada but appears some were sold to directly to the US and there are a few surivors - Some of early model 3.0 Mk1 and Mk2 were also sold to USA in Left Hand Drive form
See
References for Discoveries
-
Sept 1997 Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) Page 116 Details: Awaits a good home; Hudson; New York; last reg Virgina
-
June 2001 Practical Classics Page 69 Issue 7 Details: Hidden under bush on route 23; 10 miles from Hillsdale ;spottered by Tim Gladish ;NY State; Northport N
-
One was restored a 1966 model in the US and feature on that car was covered in November 2004 Classic Cars (GB) (as of yet I have not reviewd it)
As for
Europe Its not known whether they were sold there but there is a left hand drive car in France! and very early made model Number 197!
See:
- December 1997 Practical Classics Page 21 Issue 13 under feature called Readers cars Car is registered Reg 4000 VP27 (Paris) and owned by Eric Dulondel as of 1997; #197
References for 4.0R sedan
Buying Tips: See:
-
January 1998 Practical Classics Page 60+ (not reviewed by me at present)
-
September 1993 Classic & SportsCar (GB) Page 40-41
-
March 1997 Classic & Sportscar (GB) Page 132-133
Road Tests when New 4.0R Sedan
-
28th August 1964 Motor (GB) Page 16-20
-
28th August 1964 Autocar (GB) Page 406-410 - car tested Reg 237 NOH
-
Feb 1966 Australian Motor Manual Page 20-21 Issue 280
-
March 1966 Wheels (Aus) Page 26+ (regretably not reviewd by me)
Used Tests
- Vanden Plas 4.0R 1964 See: 14 March 1968 Autocar Page 50-51 Volume 128 Issue 3761 ;Details: Reg CGB 657B;46158m;fitted Tudor Webasto sun roof ;3 owners; car supplied by Davenport Veron 10 London Rd;Wycombe Buckinshire
Used Tests -modern times
- Vanden Plas 4.0R 1966 See: November 1997 Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) Page 159 Reg EED 595C ( or is it EFD 595C) because if its EED 595C the car was later featured November 2004 Practical Classics Page 23 Issue 12 where staff member of Practical Classics Reg EFD 595C Danny Hopkins buys for his father - he sold his Austin 3.0!
Driving Impressions in modern times
to continue
Driving Impressions in modern times Comparsions
4 LITRE R 1964 Reg DTO 168B
Side by side for 2000p DTO 168B vs Simca Vedette; Rover P5 3.0;Humber Imp; Volvo 164; Toy Crown; Peu 604GTI; Rover SD1;Audi V8; Ford Granada 2.8Ghia; Cit 2.4CX Super; Tatra T613-4; Daimler Sov S3 see: August 2002 Practical Classics (GB) Page 24-39
4 LITRE R 1965 Reg LME 575C
Reg LME 575C vs 73 Triumph 2.5Pi; 73 Ford Granada GXL;1982 MB 200 W123 ;91 Jag XJ40 Sov; Comparsion Big Cars -Small Money ; better by the Pound (Vnp for sale at Balby Motor Spares) See: March 2005 Practical Classics (GB) Page 38-42
Owner Experiences
Engine -Technical Details
- A Technical analysis including a cut-a-way illustration of that engine see 23rd October 1964 Autocar (GB) Page 829
unusual cars
4.0R with division
-
4 LITRE R 1965+div screen one turned up for sale in 1978 See: January 1978 Thoroughbred & Classic Cars (GB) Page 57 Volume 5 Issue 4 ; Details classified but no photo; 2 owners present owner 10 years has 1000pounds
-
Then another advert could be for the same car Classified + small colour photo; front view fitted glass patitition model ; Maroon with maroon leather interior; (looks more red) 78000miles has mot June 1850 pounds ono Reg OUU 898C see See May 1998 Practical Classics (GB) Page 155 Issue 6
4.0 R fitted with Rolls Royce Grill (RR takes a dim view of this)
4 LITRE R 1965-Rolls Royce Grill here is one in the UK (i have head a few US so fitted as there was one in New Zealand)
turned up for sale -classified +small bw photo ;class 1 condition Coffee over cream mot anf t 4000pounds ono
September 1990 Practical Classics (GB) Page 114 Volume 11 Issue 5 seller located tel Harleston 853813 Norfolk UK
The Wagon Conversions
4 LITRE R ESTATE - Discovery of one light green; found by Lawerence Lomars from Southamoton at the Niceman Motoring Breakers in Hamblowner Hugh deals in Maxis ; Princess and Allegro parts; Vnp is restorable (no year of the wagon is given)
See: Feb 2002 Practical Classics Page 73 Issue 2
Harold Radford & Conversion -more unusual fastback Estate
4 LITRE R 1967 ESTATE - photo of one in News section
See: 26th January 1967 Autocar Page 51 Volume 126 Issue 302
This one was more of 1 off and I am not aware of its surival
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is the connection between Morris & Leon Bollee?
Mentioned in Finds and Discovery section of The Automobile 1927-1930 Cowley 4D Saloon RHD in Finds & Discoveries section a car was spotterd by Terry Dove of East Twickenham taking a Holiday in Northern France asks this very question August 1986 The Automobile Page 20-21 Vol 4 Issue 6
- The Editor of Magazines explained the connection Morris and Leon Bollee by following statement where he recieved correspondance from Harry Edwards of Morris Register for background info :
"Morris took over Leon Bollee factory in 1924 initially the MLB products were thinly disguised copies of those available from Cowley and engines were made by Hotchkiss whose British branch
built the engines for the Cowley and Oxford - These engines were hoever 2.5L pushrod operated valves rated at 12CV but the 18CV which followed in 1928 was a 3 litre Straight 8 with upstairs
camshaft which reflected the Morris Take over of Wolseley ; at the peak of production some 50 12CVs were made for each week but the car was never a success Morris sold out and a new
sydicate took over marketing the same range of 15CV 2.6 litre cars introduced by Morris few were made and it was all over by 1933" quote
---------------------------------------------------------
In Addition I have additional Research Service compilation available where a customer wants me to search wide and far : Below is an example of some work I produced for a Magazine on the Anzel Nova of 1968 a proposed NZ Production Car designed by Ogle and Produced by Reliant that later saw service in Turkey
ANZIEL NOVA
There is a cost from $20.00 as I do spent a lot time researching and finding suitable websites and books from libraries
To add over this week