Not only were we lucky enough to photograph a couple of their recently restored cars, an FJ Holden ute which I have to say is something rather special (see elsewhere in this issue for a full feature on this car), and a superb 1968 Mercedes-Benz 250E cabriolet that we’ll feature in a few months, but we were also treated to a guided tour through The Surgery’s restoration shop – a real eye-opener for any self-confessed petrol-head.

The first thing I noticed was the total contrast of vehicles at various stages of restoration – a pair of 3.0-litre Austin-Healeys, a Triumph Herald, Porsche 911 Targa, Austin-Healey ‘Bug Eye’ Sprite, XJ6 Jaguars, a late ’40s Ford Club coupé and even a ’20s Rolls-Royce Phantom in the initial stages of a full restoration. I also spotted two Karmann Ghias, two 1955 VW Beetles, a Fiat and an Alfa Spider, a Mk2 Jaguar, 1939 Chrysler (totally restored and waiting to be converted from right-hand to left-hand drive before being shipped to Spain), a pair of Armstrong-Siddeleys (one for New Zealand and one destined for Spain). And that’s not to mention a BMW 2002 and a very rare 1935 Rover Hastings coupé. I’m sure we’ve missed a few, but you get the point – Mike and his talented team of coachbuilders and restorers have yet to hear that ugly word ‘recession!’

Wandering through into another building, we found it packed to the gunnels with cars awaiting their turn for restoration to begin – including two E-Type Jaguars, an extremely original 1930 Model A roadster and a 1939 Ford Anglia. The clients range from all over New Zealand to all over the world; Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Indonesia, Spain, Ireland and Australia.

That raises an interesting point – a large percentage of these cars belong to overseas owners and will be carefully packed and shipped to them once The Surgery has applied their magic.

As we walk around, Mike explains to us some of the wonderful stories behind each car and their owners, and I must admit to feeling like a kid in a lolly shop as I discovered more and more cars tucked away. I even spotted a brand new Dodge Challenger Hemi SRT8 which, in actual fact, is the only car not due to receive any attention, it’s being stored for a friend of Mike’s.

Skilled Craftsmen

The Surgery was reborn when Irene van de Coolwijk came on board as Mike’s business partner in the early ’90s, and together they’ve restored countless cars in their 3500 square metre old-world-type building, which is rather reminiscent of a doctor’s surgery and includes a workshop complete with period polished wooden floors. When you realise that Mike is the third generation of highly skilled craftsmen coachbuilders in his family, it’s not difficult to appreciate the depth of commitment he brings to his craft, which is clearly evident in the magnificent restoration projects mentioned above.

With a family history than spans over 120 years in the car restoration business, it’s probably fair to say that Mike Baucke has petrol and oil running through his veins.

As a teenager, he learned to drive in a 1934 Chevrolet Junior which he had actually restored himself (that was two years ago and he still owns that car), and spent his holidays touring around the countryside in the family Model A, so you can pretty much say that he had the bug from an early age. Nowadays, Mike Baucke and his partner Irene van de Coolwijk are the motivational force who drive a proud bunch of dedicated craftsmen, who are simply world class in their restoration abilities.

Mike and Irene have always been passionate about ‘different’ cars and have owned an impressive array of classics over the years, including a 1934 Chevrolet, 1936 Plymouth, 1929 Essex, 1969 Pontiac Firebird, 1958 Morgan, 1965 Daimler 250-V8, several Mk2 Jaguars, BMW 2002s, a 1973 911 Porsche, an M5 BMW and a 1972 Lancia Fulvia coupé.

They have currently downsized to a 1985 Mustang Interceptor Californian Highway Patrol car, used as a race car, and an original 1960 two-door Ford Fairlane for cruising, but you never know, they’re keen enthusiasts and are constantly looking for exciting and unusual classics.

Racing Sponsor

As well as being one of the country’s leading classic car restorers, The Surgery has been the chief sponsor of The Surgery Intermarque Sprint Series (the longest running series of its type in New Zealand) for over 12 years, with six rounds every year at Manfeild and an average of 80 to 90 competitors at each round. The concept is a low key, low cost, professionally organised, track-based introduction to tarmac motor sport – fundamentally, it is a standalone series for those drivers who wish to try their skills on the race-track. It also offers a competitive arena for those who want to pit themselves against others in their class, in the format of dual car sprints, typically with no more than eight cars on the track at any one time and an opportunity to enter into more competitive, serious forms of motor sport. This could include Clubmans or classic racing.

The Surgery Intermarque Sprint Series is quite often frequented by drivers who use it to hone their skills for other classic meetings – such as the MG Classic Motor Race, MG Charity Classic and Central Districts Classic Car Club closed meetings, all in a format designed to combine fun with friendly competition.

Mike and Irene were well known for their tight tussles with each other in their matching BMW 2002s in The Surgery Intermarque Sprint Series at Manfeild, and Mike concedes that Irene more often than not led the way on the track. However, after 12 years of accident-free motor racing, Mike and Irene finally came to grief, with both cars coming off a little worse for wear. At that point, Mike decided to repair both BMWs and began looking for a race car which was a bit different, one that was more challenging and with more power. When he eventually found what he was looking for, the BMWs were sold and Mike bought a genuine 1985 Ford Mustang Interceptor California Highway Patrol car, complete with police livery and flashing lights. Their other new addition, the 1960 Ford Fairlane that still boasts its original, sunburned paint, was treated to a brand new interior makeover in order to turn it into the perfect cruiser in which to attend the 2012 New Plymouth Americarna event, something Mike and Irene are really looking forward to.

A day spent with Mike and his team didn’t quite seem enough somehow, it went far too quickly and we could easily have spent another day indulging ourselves in the creative atmosphere of welding, hammer and filing, fabricating and painting, as well as a myriad of other activities being performed on cars of all shapes, sizes and marques. One thing is sure though – we’ll be back in due course to update you with more news from The Surgery.

Words: Ashley Webb Photos: Adam Croy

Turners Auctions Christchurch branch is conducting the first of its 2012 Classic Car Auctions this Saturday, February 25th at 12-noon.

With over 40 interesting and varied classics up for grabs there should be something of interest to all Classic buffs regardless of their individual preferences.

Some of the interesting vehicles entered have come from deceased estates ensuring they will sell under the hammer on the day. Two restoration projects are a 1928 Oakland Landau and a Buick 27X of the same vintage. There is also a very nice ‘65 Chev Corvette manual with matching numbers that must be sold. Other American classics include a ‘37 Chevrolet Master, a ‘67 Chrysler New Yorker, a ‘52 Fleetmaster, a ‘84 Corvette and a ‘67 Mustang.

British Classics include an excellent ’55 MG TF, a ‘67 Lotus Elan, an ’89 Jaguar XJS convertible and even a very original Ford 10.

As per usual at Turners Classic auctions, there is a good representation of European Marques as well as the more budget priced classics such as a very original ’65 Vauxhall PB 3.3 and a MKII Escort van.

Turners last Classic Auction in Christchurch was in late November and proved very successful with the majority of entries sold on the day. Accordingly to Carl Williams, Turners Classic co-coordinator, there appears to be an increased interest from buyers wanting a vehicle with some degree of “street cred” even if it’s a bit of a stretch to call it a true classic. He explains that often these cars can be bought for under five thousand dollars, hence attract considerable attention.

Photos and details of all the cars in this Saturday’s auction can be viewed on www.turners.co.nz and interested buyers are able to bid on line via Turners live available on the same website. Local buyers can inspect the Classic line up on Friday or Saturday morning prior to the auction.

Every once in a while a vehicle comes along that we’d consider unusual or unique for whatever reason, such as our recently featured aero-engined Riley or perhaps the cute, lime-green Eastern European Trabant that we featured earlier in the year. And that brings us to this stunning FJ Holden ute. As you read this story it’ll become rather obvious what makes it so unique, and a stand-out from the crowd.

A Meaty Idea 

It all started when Export Meat Warehouse, a national chain of 23 franchised and independently owned butcher shops, decided to create a totally unique mobile BBQ.

The idea for this BBQ was sparked by the story of an adventurous fellow from Australia called Tom O’Toole, a baker from Beechworth in Victoria. O’Toole travelled all around Australia in an old Model T van, even going to the very northernmost tip of Australia where people said it couldn’t go. Hamish Preston, managing director of Export Meat Warehouse, was so inspired by Tom’s story that he decided to create something similar in New Zealand.

The Export Meat Warehouse head office team scoured the country for a suitable vehicle, and in addition Hamish Preston also approached well-known vehicle restorer, Mike Baucke at The Surgery, to discuss ideas on a promotional vehicle based on a 1930s-1940s pick-up truck capable of carrying a portable BBQ in the back that could be taken out and set up at shows and special events.

Both Hamish and Mike kept an eye out on local auction websites and in the Cars for Sale section in NZ Classic Car, looking for the right vehicle to use. After some intense searching finally an FJ Holden ute came up for sale on the internet, and both Hamish and Mike decided to fly to Nelson, where the ute was located, to take a further look. The old FJ was the perfect solution for what Hamish wanted to achieve and, after a bit of haggling with the owner, a deal was struck and the project began.

The vehicle the pair had finally settled on was a 1955 FJ Holden ute, a classic vehicle in every sense of the word.

The FJ has indeed become a celebrated Australian icon and, in fact, the trusty FJ undoubtedly played its part in
cementing Holden’s place as building Australia’s most popular car. Today, Holden lovers, restorers and those wishing to modify this iconic classic recognise that unmistakable, era-defining chrome grille and stylish monogrammed hubcaps. Indeed, that distinctive front grille assembly has since made the FJ one of Australia’s most familiar faces.

Marinating the FJ

Once the FJ ute was in the hands of Mike Baucke and his team at The Surgery, work began on turning this old banger into a mobile BBQ, a restoration project that would last seven months.

The task in hand was to create a vehicle which a wide sector of the New Zealand population could relate to, plus it needed to have the feel of those old-time Kiwi golden summers – and so the task was to transform an old, retired icon into a genuine working classic.

Hamish’s requirements for the vehicle were quite specific, and included such things as upgraded brakes, suspension, engine and gearbox, but the vehicle still had to retain its classic personality.

The FJ ute also needed to be user-friendly and reliable, as it was to be driven by a wide range of people and be capable of carrying heavy loads at times.

Another requirement was that the old FJ had to have a few creature comforts on board (for those long trips up country), and be capable of keeping up with the general traffic on the roads.

Last but by no means least, it needed to be self-contained with a complete BBQ that could be easily and quickly set up and put away and, just as importantly, the ute still needed to look original to the untrained eye.

The first job on the agenda for The Surgery was to develop a suitable design that was not only practical, but that would also comply with the requirements set down by Hamish and his team at the Export Meat Warehouse. Mike produced dozens of sketches, working drawings and innovative ideas which ultimately came together to produce an end result which has since become a highly sought after (and very cool) marketing tool for Hamish. Basically, the result of Mike’s work ended up being a cross between a camper van, food catering vehicle, mobile marketing machine and classic car all rolled into one – complete with a bright red paint job and whitewall tyres.

Filleting the FJ

In actual fact, the FJ Holden was in fairly tidy original condition, albeit a little worn, providing Mike and his team with a good base to work from. The first step was to completely strip all the mechanicals, interior, engine, gearbox, suspension and electrics out of the ute so that design work, mechanical modifications, engineering, upgrades and overhauls could be carried out.

The next step was to test fit the entire new drivetrain that included a fully reconditioned 3.3-litre (202ci) Holden
engine with a modified sump and oil pick-up. The new engine also featured new standard 202 engine mounts, new heavy-duty 120-amp alternator and a Holden VK Commodore electronic pointless ignition distributor. A heavy-duty radiator with thermostatic controlled electric fan was installed to take care of the cooling department.

The engine was then mated to a Holden Commodore five-speed gearbox, and a heavy-duty clutch was added to take care of any extra weight. The next step was to install the ball-jointed (from original king pin) front suspension, but not before the front cross member was upgraded to a Holden HR unit. New gas shocks and front sway bar were also fitted, while the rear suspension received a set of adjustable heavy-duty gas shocks. The front brakes received a disc brake conversion complete with new callipers, brake booster, master cylinder and overhauled pedal box assembly, all courtesy of Holden VK Commodore.

Once the drivetrain was completely installed and fully checked to ensure everything worked and operated as it should, the vehicle was completely disassembled again so the panel work and straightening could commence.

The bodywork on the FJ was fairly sound to start with for its age, considering that Mike and Hamish had spent some time looking for a good example. The Surgery discovered that the FJ ute was previously painted white, and there were visible areas of surface rust once the shell was stripped back to bare steel which required a small amount of cutting and welding operations before it was repaired and straightened.

When the body was perfectly straight and prepared for painting it was then fully sprayed in Export Meat Warehouse colours using PPG two-pack products, and the company graphics and sponsor logos were applied. The body was also fully rust-proofed and undersealed at this time.

Now the body was painted it was time for the reassembly of all the new and revised mechanical and suspension components, as well as a 12V electric heater/demister, remote electric central locking system, up-rated headlamps, 12V system and heavy-duty 12V starting battery. Originally the FJ didn’t have indicators, so an indicator switch was designed and fitted to the steering column and the indicators placed inside the front side lamps and tail lamps. The windscreen wipers were converted from vacuum to dual speed electric wipers and inertia seat belts and centre lap belts were fitted. To add the finishing touches to the ute’s interior, a CD player with iPod plug and two four-inch speakers were installed in the doors.

Grilling the FJ

Once the FJ Holden Ute was fully restored and looking a million dollars, the hardest and most challenging component of this entire project had to be tackled – installing the BBQ.

After much research and countless design concepts, Mike and his team created the overall effect for the canopy. The look was one of a stylised wooden ‘crate’ as seen back in the 1950s, complete with black boards on the sides for those special sale items. The canopy has exterior low wattage lighting that lights up the black boards at night, plus red strip lighting around the underbody to highlight the flames which can be left on at night when the FJ is parked up in high traffic areas for maximum exposure. They can be turned on and off using the remote central locking control. The canopy doors open upwards and lock together to create large signage areas.
They also have exterior speakers concealed inside which are linked up to a second sound and PA system located inside the canopy.

In a matter of minutes, with one quick action the entire kitchen-catering contents of the canopy slide out on a deck that carries a self-contained stainless wash hand basin (with electric water tap), a water tank with hot and cold water, a full six-burner BBQ, cook/prep top/storage drawer and 12V fridge. All ready for use straight away.

This amazing creation also includes interior adjustable LED lighting, a built-in electronic Intellicharge self-charging system with two storage deep-cycle ‘house’ batteries that allow the complete system to run under its own power for up to nine hours. The batteries can recharge while driving or can be plugged into 240V mains. There is an on-board petrol generator too, if required. In addition, there are in-built safety features such as an electronic gas extractor, fire extinguisher and main power switch that can use the ‘house’ batteries to start the FJ if the starting battery runs flat. Full test and certification of complete vehicle and modifications was completed.

Called the BBQ Ute (registration IBBQ4U), the BBQ Ute is totally self-contained with its own fridge, hot running water, gas BBQ, workbench and sound system, all the equipment needed to cook a superb banger.

Export Meat Warehouse has selected KidsCan charity as its primary charity of choice, which provides disadvantaged Kiwi children with shoes, raincoats, food, and school books – it’s also supported by the All Blacks. But there is also room for local charities to be supported.

The FJ Holden BBQ Ute will be used at charity events right around the country, as it travels to members’ stores, and to special events. Whenever it is out on the road, the ute attracts a huge amount of attention – it really needs to be seen to be believed, as it’s one of those interesting, very unique vehicles that we can all appreciate and admire.

Special thanks

Hamish and the team at Export Meat Warehouse wish to thank their sponsors Caltex and Hellers. Their aim is to raise as much money as they can for KidsCan and they needed the sponsors’ help to do this. They have been very generous with their support.

Words: Ashley Webb Photos: Adam Croy

While there’s not much chance of spotting a McLaren MP4-12C in New Zealand, over in Germany, tuning company Wheelsandmore are already offering more powerful versions of McLaren’s latest supercar. Their MP4-12C ‘Toxique Evil’ refinement sees power from the car’s 3.8 litre V8 biturbo engine raised from 600bhp (447kW) to a ‘devilish’ 666bhp (496kW) and 640Nm of torque – achieved via a handcrafted exhaust system with remote-able exhaust valves and optimized control electronics.

The car’s electronic hydraulic suspension system has also been lowered by 25mm, said to improve handling and steering. 
Attention was also paid to the development of customized forged wheels – to avoid a negative effect of the unsprung masses the 6Sporz² ultralight-forged wheels were weight-optimized and individually constructed. Continental Sport Contact 5P tires ensuring the ideal contact to the road; 245/30-20-inch up front and 325/25-21-inch at the rear.

Want more? Wheelsandmore are currently testing an intercooled turbocharged option for the MP4-12C – expected to increase power to around 800bhp (595kW).

For more information, visit: www.wheelsandmore.de

Grays Online is currently offering fourteen classic and pre-vintage cars for tender, many of which are not often seen on the open market, such as the E-Type Jag you see in the main picture. Most are in running condition with the exception of a few that may require some degree of restoration.

The full list of cars will please enthusiasts, particularly those interested in British cars from the 1960s and early ’70s as there are some interesting examples from Jaguar and Morris:

-          1930 Oakland Eight

-          1934 Chevrolet Master

-          1963 Jaguar Mark II

-          1964 Jaguar Mark II

-          1973 Jaguar E-Type

-          1963 Austin Ruby

-          1972 Chevrolet 350

-          1982 Ford Cortina Mark V

-          1959 Morris Oxford

-          1964 Morris 1100

-          1970 Morris 1300

-          1971 Morris 1300

-          1964 Ford Thames 800

-          1964 Vauxhall Cresta

-          1934 Chevrolet Tourer Chassis & Parts

Situated in two Auckland locations these vehicles can be viewed at either Manukau or Karaka and viewing is welcome between 10:00am and 3:00pm Wednesday 15th and 22nd of February 2012 at 70, Kerrs Road, Manukau, Auckland or by arranging an appointment with Alex Dawson, Ph 09 448 1666 or 021 713 352.

All tender offers must be received by 4:00pm, Friday 24th February 2012 and a full and comprehensive list and tender details can be found at http://www.graysonline.co.nz

Check out some of the other cars in the gallery below.

This year marked the 39th year for the NZCC Intermarque Concours d’Elegance held at Ellerslie Racecourse on Sunday 12^th February.

Sunday morning wasn’t looking too promising as threatening dark rain clouds hovered over Auckland, however, no one seemed too perturbed and by 7.00am the beautifully manicured grounds at Ellerslie Racecourse were a hive of activity.

The host club, Auckland Mustang Owners Club was clearly in control of proceedings and by 10.00am as the gates opened to the public all final preparations were complete. Unfortunately it was at about that time when the heavens decided to open leaving everyone to duck for cover under the nearest shelter they could find; luckily it wasn’t far for most.

A larger than normal crowd gathered around the Winners Circle as all the cars had been removed from their under cover position back into their original spots for Prize giving and an opportunity for the spectators to get a good look at the cars for the last time.

The competition was undoubtedly extremely tough and once the final judging results had been collated and tallied the final announcements were made.

The winners this year of the Team Event were the Early Holden Club of Auckland Inc and the coveted Masters Class winner this year went to Owen Grigg with his outstanding 1957 Chrysler 300C factory racecar.

Next year, the 40^th NZCC Intermarque Concours d’Elegance, and will it be a special event, yes indeed – we look forward to seeing you then.

It’s been a while since we featured any classic aircraft models in this column, so we decided to redress the balance by featuring two aircraft from Haynes’ new Miniature History range.
The delightful 1:72 die-cast models in this range all come packaged with a small hardback book covering the history of the aircraft itself. Packed with interesting information, period photographs and illustrations, these history books are the perfect complement for the models themselves.
First up, we chose two WWII rivals from the range – a Messerschmitt bF109 and, of course, a Supermarine Spitfire. Moving away from RAF and Luftwaffe Fighter Command, our third selection was this lovely Avro Lancaster bomber.
All three models are well detailed and come painted in typical WWII livery, complete with authentic badges and insignia.

Go into the draw to win this Spark brand BMW M1 by answering the following question:

Name the man responsible for the Spitfire’s design?

To enter this competition, click here.
Competition closes on February 25, 2012.

Haynes Miniature History sets are available from all good toy and hobby shops. If you have a problem locating them, contact Toymod Ltd (PO Box 18 263, Auckland, ph: 09 527 0122, fax: 09 527 0144) to find your closest retailer.

The suits at Ford had obviously hit the nail on the head, with Mustang clocking up an amazing world-record sales of 418,812 in its first year on the market, more than four times the expected sales of 100,000. Popularity amongst Ford enthusiasts had indeed reached an all-time high and within three years an estimated 500 Mustang Clubs had formed across the USA alone.
Fast-forward to today and it’s no surprise that the Ford Mustang continues to capture the spirit and look of the original with today’s technology including numerous safety, convenience and comfort features. It’s also no real surprise that prices of US muscle cars have increased in recent years, as global demand by baby boomers purchasing their dream cars continues to grow – especially in countries such as China and Russia – despite recent world-wide economic woes.
What makes the Mustang so attractive is the vast array of performance and body style options that were available at the time, particularly through the muscle car period of the mid-1960s to early ’70s. Ironically though, the Ford Mustang never fell into the category of a true muscle car, which is defined as a high-performance vehicle – generally a mid-size car with a large, powerful engine (more often than not, a V8) and unique trim, intended for maximum acceleration on the street or drag strip, predominantly of American origin, and produced between 1964 and 1971. Muscle cars are distinguishable from sports cars, which are typically smaller two or two-plus-two seaters or GTs, intended for high-speed touring and possibly road racing. High-performance full size or compact cars are excluded from this category, as is the breed of compact sports coupés inspired by the Ford Mustang, typically known as Pony cars, although few would dispute a Boss 429’s credentials – or indeed, a high-performance K-Code such as our featured Mustang – as a muscle car.

Blue Blooded

Doug Sankey’s passion for cars started as soon as he could drive. He has always liked Fords, his first car being a MkIII Cortina, and has since owned a German-assembled Ford Capri, Aussie-assembled MkIV Cortina, XC Fairmont and XF Fairmont.
Doug also had a passion for the fastback model of Mustang, but when the opportunity arose to purchase one he was assured by Mustang guru Wayne Lack that he “couldn’t afford” the particular one he had spotted in Wayne’s shed, so when in 2003 Doug and his wife Debbie purchased their first Mustang, it was a more affordable 1966 notchback from Wayne.
During the next two years the Mustang was fully restored. That meant a complete back-to-bare-steel strip-down by Doug’s younger brothers Steve and Malcolm, who at the time were joint owners of Matamata Panelworks. All restoration work was completed by local Matamata businesses and it was finally finished off in a stunning Ferrari green paint scheme.
Only days after the restoration was completed, Doug and Debbie’s 1966 notchback was taken to its first show, the 2005 National Mustang Convention in Auckland, and was awarded second place in its class.
In 2006 it was again entered into the National Mustang Convention, this time in Palmerston North, where it was awarded first place in its class.
In 2007 Doug and Debbie were approached by the Auckland Mustang Owners’ Club, of which they were members at the time, and asked to enter the Mustang into the teams event at the NZCC/Ellerslie Intermarque Concours D’Élégance. This prestigious show is one of New Zealand’s premier classic car events, held in Auckland every year for all makes and models of classic cars.
They duly entered, along with close friends Frank and Lynda Parker with their exquisite 1966 fastback, a car Doug had always admired and dreamed of one day owning. The cars went on to win third place in the coveted Teams Event. At the time Doug’s stunning Mustang notchback was not for sale, but when he was approached by a passionate and somewhat tenacious Mustang admirer who offered him a price too good to refuse, the Mustang was duly sold.
Having finally moved on from the emotional pain caused by parting with his Mustang notchback, in 2007 Doug was offered the opportunity to purchase a rare and genuine 1965 K-Code Hi-Po 289 V8 Mustang. After much begging and cajoling, wife Debbie finally gave in and a new baby was added to the Sankey family. Ironically, this vehicle happened to be the same fastback that Doug had admired in Wayne Lack’s shed some four years earlier, having not realised back then that it was a rare K-Code.
Doug and his brother Steve, picked up this new addition from an old shed it had been stored in for a number of years and took it back to Pukekohe, where they completely stripped the vehicle back to bare steel in preparation for a full rotisserie rebuild. A two-year-long project had begun.
According to Doug, it’s believed the old Mustang had been stolen at least three times during its life in the USA, and was imported into New Zealand in a rather sad and sorry state as basically a bare shell, however, it was exactly what he was looking for.
Steve, Doug’s brother, was now operating from his own workshop, CARS (Classic & American Restoration Services Ltd) in Pukekohe, and started working on the vehicle’s shell, with Doug joining in on weekends and when his understanding boss and patient and loving wife and children allowed him time away. The body was totally stripped back to bare steel, put on a rotisserie and sand blasted, which uncovered some nasty history from what appeared to be damage caused from racing and drag racing earlier in its life.
The chassis and body repair work was typical of the era and required Steve’s magical touch to bring it back to life. The body was then placed on a chassis machine and pulled straight before the extensive task of repairing the rust commenced, which included the addition of new floor panels, boot floor panels, rear panel, boot lid, a rear guard, front chassis rail, fire wall, repairs to the cowl panel and rust removal from both doors.
The front suspension also received a complete makeover, receiving new ball joints and a larger diameter sway bar finished off in satin black and silver exactly to factory specs. The factory differential was fully reconditioned along with the factory original K-Code discs and drum brakes.

Andy Duffin, who worked at Dennis Syverston Painters Pukekohe at the time, artfully and skilfully applied the glorious pale blue exterior paint, called Silver Lakes. Andy now operates from his own workshop, RE Paints in Pukekohe. Bill Fryer at Meads Auto Trimmers in Matamata installed the matching light blue and white deluxe interior complete with Pony trim.
Well-known Mustang expert Wayne Lack treated the engine to a total rebuild to original K-Code specs with the exception of Tri-Y exhaust headers. Incidentally, the K-Code engine was jammed pack full of internal high performance goodies from the factory, including such items as 28mm main caps, instead of tapering to 16mm (15/16-inch to 5/8-inch); connecting rods with heavier bolts and nuts; a crankshaft with a unique hatchet and counter weight; a mechanical camshaft; solid lifters; aluminium flat top pistons; and a specially-designed narrow timing chain. From the outside any blue-blooded Ford fan can quickly recognised the external K-Code tell-tale signs such as screw-in rocker studs and cast spring seats in the cylinder heads, which also have the numbers 19, 20, 21 cast into them; the same intake manifold as the A code 4V engine; a Venturi 600cfm, manual choke carburettor; exhaust manifolds with a different design for better air flow; a four blade fan; a larger pulley on the alternator; and chrome rocker covers. The 289 block is identical to that used for the 65/66 A and C Code engines.

Blue Creation

Looking at this beautiful Mustang one can be forgiven for thinking a lot of sweat, tears, and no doubt some blood must have gone into the rebuild of this vehicle, and the skill and attention to detail certainly shows in the finished item. The judges of the Auckland Mustang Owners’ Club would seem to agree, as at their 2011 annual car show they awarded the vehicle the Best Panel and Paint trophy and second place in the GT division.
Doug has already moved on to his next project, a 1932 roadster, which he keeps at home in his shed. He is challenging himself to completely build it, on his own, from the ground up. His engineering background is proving valuable.
With the K-Code, Doug and Debbie certainly have a rare and unique racehorse in their stables. When asked if he would ever part with this particular baby, “if the price is right, anything is possible,” was the response.
Doug and Debbie Sankey acknowledge the huge amount of time that CARS put into the K-code. Their patience, passion and professionalism to this project made it the exceptional Mustang it is today.

1965 Ford Mustang Specifications 

1965 K-code Hi-Po
289 V8 Mustang 
Engine Ford V8
Capacity 4736cc (289ci)
Bore/stroke 102.5×73.5mm
Valves Two valves per cylinder/ohv
Fuel systemVenturi 600cfm, manual choke carburettor
C/R 10.0:1
Max power 202kW (271bhp) at 6000rpm
Max torque 423Nm (312lb/ft) at 3400rpm
TransmissionFour-speed manual
SuspensionF/R – coil springs/solid axle with leaf springs
Steering Recirculating ball, optional power assist
Brakes Disc/drum

Dimensions:
Overall length 4613mm
Width 1732mm
Height 1297mm
Wheelbase 2743mm
Kerb weight 1360kg

Performance:
0-100kph 6 seconds
Standing 1/4 mile14 seconds

Words: Ashley Webb, Photos: Adam Croy

With Ferrari’s home town of Maranello snowbound, the internet has come to the rescue for the launch for Ferrari 2012 Formula One Car, the F2012, with the launch taking place in cyberspace for both the media and the public.

In a matter of hours more than five million hits were taken on the Ferrari public and media web sites.

The F2012 is the 58^th car built by Ferrari with the express purpose of taking part in the Formula 1 World Championship. It adopts a well established tradition of being named after its year of manufacture.

With a reduction in the number of days available for track testing before the start of the Championship, which has dropped from fifteen to twelve, preparatory work on the test beds prior to the car’s track debut, has taken on even more importance. The three test sessions – at Jerez de la Frontera and Barcelona – will serve to get a picture of the handling of the F2012 and to adapt it to the Pirelli tyres. Indeed, getting the most out of the tyres has been an area that has seen a lot of work both at the design stage and in how the activities at the track are to be managed. The car is due to undergo a very intensive development programme over the first part of the season, especially on the aerodynamic front.

For those who couldn’t make it to the sensational NZ Festival of Motor Racing at Hampton Downs – here’s a taste of what you missed!

Many thanks to Allan Udy of the Historical Aviation Film Unit for sending us the link to this video – amazing car-to-car footage of motor racing legend, Chris Amon, track-testing an amazing Ferrari 250 GTO replica at Hampton Downs. The car may be a replica, but it’s a genuine Ferrari – so sit back, turn up the volume and watch a master at work accompanied by a V12 soundtrack.

A brief message to all our loyal subscribers – due to a glitch in our distribution system, subscriber copies of the latest, February, edition of NZ Classic Car were posted out rather later than usual. So, if your copy hasn’t arrived yet, be patient – it’s on the way!

We apologise for the delay and can assure everyone that bums have been booted on your behalf!

Go into the draw to win this Spark brand BMW M1 by answering the following question.

Steve O’Rourke wasn’t simply known as a racing driver. What was his main claim to fame?

To enter this competition, click here.
Competition closes on February 25, 2012.

The first part of this year’s NZFMR – celebrating BMW – takes place this weekend at Hampton Downs. Be there to catch two days of exciting classic car racing – including star turns from celebrated drivers such as Jim Richards, Paul Radisich and Paul Fahey – and, of course, dozens of historic and significant BMW race-cars. It’s an event not to be missed – but if you can’t make it to Hampton Downs this weekend, be sure to get there next weekend for the second part of this unique event.

Want to know more?

http://www.nzfmr.co.nz/

Goodyear’s Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 has been awarded the Gold Medal in the latest Motor magazine tyre test, cementing its position as Australia’s ultimate performance road tyre. The accolade also gives Goodyear a hat-trick of wins in the authoritative test with the original Eagle F1 Asymmetric earning the award the two previous years.

With testing undertaken at Sydney’s Eastern Creek Raceway, V8 Supercar driver, stunt driver and driving instructor, Warren Luff, was behind the wheel of a MY12 Mitsubishi Evolution X MR, putting nine 245/40R18 size high performance road tyres through their paces. The tyres were tested in four separate challenges – Figure Eight Road Circuit, Wet Skidpan, Dry Slalom and Emergency Braking – with scores averaged across three attempts for each.

With Australian weather conditions providing a constant and varied challenge for drivers and tyres alike, performance in the Wet Skidpan is always a key performance indicator. Here the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 was the clear leader in what was the only wet test, with its new silica tread compound and race inspired resin creating better adhesion on the wet surfaces. The Goodyear tyre again clocked the outright fastest average time on the Figure Eight Road Circuit, highlighting the credentials of its new improved tread pattern which allows for a more stable outer tread to aid cornering. The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 was also equal first place in the Dry Slalom.

Overall, after taking out three of the four categories, MOTOR awarded the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 the Gold Medal, commenting that, “its solid performance across all categories shows its broad capabilities to cope with a diverse range of situations.”

For further information:

http://asymmetric2.goodyear-micro.co.nz/

Only a few weeks away from this year’s NZCC/Ellerslie Intermarque Concours – which is planned to take place on Sunday, 12th February.

Starting with the extremely popular Meguiar’s/MG/Mustang Fun Run on Saturday. 11th February, the show itself is expected to draw out over 600 classic cars from all over New Zealand – many of them competing for team and individual honours in the Intermarque Concours. For more information, visit: www.concours.org.nz

NZ Classic Car will, once again, be taking over the Newmarket Room at Ellerslie and we’re planning a huge display of mouth-watering classic cars – visitors will also get a chance to look at Don Packwood’s fantastic motor sport paintings, plus the chance to buy exclusive prints.

So, safe motoring over the holiday period – and we’ll catch up with you a Ellerslie!

After two and a half years of development Donkervoort Automobielen in Lelystad – in close collaboration with Audi Quattro GmbH – recently presented the next generation of open sports cars: the Donkervoort GTO.

With a capacity of 253 to 298kW and torque of 450Nm from about 1600rom. And all this with a total weight of around 700kg. Without a doubt one of the fastest sports cars on the European market andn, with the first private preview for Donkervoort Ambassadors from all over Europe, received so enthusiastically that within a few hours approximately half of the first 25 specially designed GTOs were sold.

The GTO is clearly a size larger than its predecessors, the closed GT and the open D8 270RS. About 35 centimetres longer and 15 centimetres wider, to be exact. Necessary to accommodate the massive, longitudinally placed, five-cylinder 253kW 2.5 TFSI Audi motor and at the same time realise an astonishing balance in the design. The GTO is therefore a brand-new designed car. Only sharing 5% of the parts with the D8 270RS and about 30% with the much more recent GT. A milestone in the 34-year history of Donkervoort.

The first 25 specially designed GTOs are also equipped with a 2.5 TFSI motor, which is 30kg lighter than the standard Audi variant. The dashboard in this design of the GTO is equipped with a special race module switch, which can increase the capacity from 253 to 298kW at once. Connected to this is another Donkervoort novelty: the first car from Lelystad that has ‘traction control’ on board. Only for when it is raining of course!

Pproduction of the new car starts in 2012, whereby it is expected that the first specially designed GTOs will be delivered in the summer. The first ‘regular’ versions are expected on the European roads starting in 2013. The price of the new GTO is between € 100,000 and € 150,000 excluding taxes.

In what country were the final VW Beetles assembled?

To enter this competition, click here.
Competition closes on January 28, 2012.

Go into the draw to win the Spark brand 1:43 Team Peugeot pit crew by answering the following question.
The Team Peugeot pit figurines featured here crewed on the #9 Le Mans Peugeot 908 HDi FAP. In what position did this car finish in the 24 hour race?

To enter this competition, click here.
Competition closes on January 28, 2012.
More info: www.spr.co.nz

The January edition of NZ Classic Car is now on sale – featuring a beautifully restored Ford Zodiac MkIII on it’s cover; our first 2012 issue also features a unique Allard P1 and a fully restored and very rare K-Code Hi-Po 289 Ford Mustang. In this month’s Motorsport Flashback column, Michael Clark remembers the late Bryan Faloon, while our resident Motor Man, Donn Anderson, writes about his experiences with Mini Cooper police cars in Australia.

On the motorsport front, we report back from the first two rounds of the Tasman Revival Series and also take a look at the recent MG Classic at Manfeild.

For those who prefer to use their classic cars for more leisurely pursuits, Trevor Stanley recounts his adventures from another of his extensive South Island Tours.

As an additional bonus, the January issue also includes an exclusive pull-out Don Packwood print showing Chris Amon on his way to winning the 1973 Nurburgring Six Hour Race in the legendary BMW 3.0CSL – the very ‘Batmobile’ that we featured on the front cover of our December 2011 edition.

Happy summer reading from all at NZ Classic Car.

The biggest motorcyle road race show this summer kicks off at Hampton Downs this Saturday, December 10^th. Round two of the 2011 Suzuki International Tri-Series gets underway at Manfield a week later, followed by the 59th running of the famous Cemetery Circuit in Wanganui, on Boxing Day.

Heading the F1 Superbike class is defending three-time Suzuki Tri-Series champion Andrew Stroud and his Suzuki GSX-R1000. Anyone with hopes of winning this year’s Suzuki Tri-Series has to get past the nine times NZ Superbike champion, and that will be no easy task.

Yet three men were fast enough to beat Stroud last year, two from Australia, so the Hamiltonian didn’t have it all his own way. Sloan Frost fired the first shot by winning the opening race at Hampton Downs on his BMW 1000RR, and went on to claim second in the title chase. Australian top-runner Robbie Bugden won race two for Suzuki, however Stroud retaliated with a pair of wins at Manfield. But the father of eight got more competition than he expected during Wanganui’s final round on Boxing Day. Stroud held off strong challenges by Nick Cole (Kawasaki) and Craig Shirriffs in race one, then Australian Dan Stauffer (Yamaha) surprised everyone by taking victory in the final race during his first visit to the Cemetery Circuit. After a long duel with Stroud, Stauffer went on to win an exhilarating Robert Holden Memorial feature race.

F1 Sidecars is always a crowd favourite and the Adam Unsworth/Stu Dawe partnership will be a tough act to beat for the rest of the large field. All the support classes will return including F3 Sportbikes, Post Classics (which promises to be a thriller this year), BEARS, Ultra Lites at the dedicated race tracks, and Classic Sidecars at Wanganui.

The first of the series starts on Saturday 10th December at Hampton Downs. For more information head to www.cemeterycircuit.co.nz”.

To enter the draw to win a free double pass to this weekend’s Suzuki International Tri-Series at Hampton Downs, simply send an email to editor@classiccar.co.nz with ‘Suzuki’ as the header and we’ll email you a ticket which you can print out and present at the gate.

Subaru – best known for their four-wheel drive rice-rockets – are making a bid for the world sports car market with their new BRZ, which was recently unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show. Eschewing their more usual four-paw drive system, Subaru have opted to go with a classic rear-wheel drive configuration for the BRZ – although they’ll be sticking with their tried-and-true horizontally-opposed Boxer engine. The BRZ was developed as a joint-project between Subaru and Toyota Motor Corporation. Weighing in at 1220kg, the naturally aspirated boxer engine will be unique to the BRZ and, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox, is said to produce 147kW and 205Nm of torque – although Subaru are keeping quiet about the BRZ’s potential performance. A six-speed auto will also be offered on the BRZ.

No decision has been made yet whether the car will be launched in New Zealand, where all Subarus have been All Wheel Drive since 1996.

The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company will offer nine one-of-a-kind vehicles in their salon-offering category on January 15-22, 2012 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, US.These rare vehicles include a 1947 Bentley Franay Mark VI Cabriolet, universally recognized as the most successful and expensive post war Bentley/Rolls-Royce automobile of all time with the Concours and auction record to prove it. In August of 1991 at the Rolls-Royce national meet, the Bentley Franay was judged by its peers as ‘Best of Show’ among all competing Rolls-Royce and Bentley automobiles from around the world. In 1999 it won the most coveted award that the RROC (Rolls-Royce Owners Club) could bestow, the Royce Memorial Trophy and top senior award ‘Best of Prior Best of Show.’Joining the Bentley Franay will be a 1948 Tucker Torpedo, an advanced automobile conceived by Preston Tucker and briefly produced in Chicago in 1948 with only 51 examples ever made. Also on the docket is a 1957 De Soto Adventurer Convertible powered by the famous 345hp, 345cid Hemi V8 with dual quads and an automatic transmission – a car once owned by King Mohammed V of Morocco.

Other vehicles being offered at the sale will be –

1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL ‘Gullwing’ Coupe. With only 4,149 Original Miles, this exceptional example is one of only 146 that were built in 1954 and is one of the lowest mileage Gullwings in existence.

1933 Pierce Arrow Silver Arrow. The Silver Arrow caused a sensation when it was unveiled at the New York Auto show in January 1933. Only five were ever built.

1930 Duesenberg Model J Murphy Town Car – One of only four built. In the 1980s, Florida car collector Bill Lassiter had a complete restoration performed on the car.

1930 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A Roadster Cabriolet by Castagna. With 13,350 original miles, this beautiful Isotta Fraschini is a Tipo 8A with wonderful coachwork by Castagna of Milan, Italy.

1928 Daimler P150 Royal Limousine – the largest British car ever built. 7.163-litre V12, steel-sleeve valve engine producing 150hp at 248rpm, a 163-inch wheelbase, 21-foot overall length and weighs 8100 lbs. This vehicle’s ownership history includes the Harrah’s Automobile Collection.

For more information about Barrett-Jackson and to purchase tickets to the event, visit www.barrett-jackson.com

The Jaguar XKR-S has just been awarded ’2011 Sports Car of the Year’ by the respected German motoring magazine, Auto Bild Sportscars, following a poll of more than 70,000 of its readers.The XKR-S – the most powerful production car Jaguar has built – competed in the ‘Production Sports Car Coupés’ category, where it took 14.3 per cent of all votes, ahead of the Mercedes C63 AMG and Audi RS5 in their home market.The XKR-S Coupé was recently tested by Auto Bild on the famous Nürburgring Nordshleife, which it lapped in just 7-minutes 51-seconds; its 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine produces 412kW and 680Nm, enabling it to sprint to 96km/h in just 4.2-seconds before going on to reach an electronically limited top speed of  300km/h. To ensure minimal lift and maximum stability at such high speeds the XKR-S has a bespoke aerodynamic pack.Competing for the 10th ‘Auto Bild Sports Car of the Year’ awards were a total of 173 cars in 17 categories, including modified and low-volume cars. In its category the Jaguar XKR-S finished ahead of 14 respected competitors. The awards were presented at the Essen Motor Show, Germany.

2007 Formula One World Champion, Kimi Raikkonen, will join the Lotus Renault Formula One Team for the 2012 season, after spending the last two years competing in the World Rally Championship, and has signed a two year contract with the UK-based team.

“I’m delighted to be coming back to Formula 1 after a two-year break, and I’m grateful to Lotus Renault GP for offering me this opportunity,” said Kimi Räikkönen at the official announcement. “My time in the World Rally Championship has been a useful stage in my career as a driver, but I can’t deny the fact that my hunger for F1 has recently become overwhelming. It was an easy choice to return with Lotus Renault GP as I have been impressed by the scope of the team’s ambition. Now I’m looking forward to playing an important role in pushing the team to the very front of the grid.”

John Key’s BMW is  five ministerial BMWs to be auctioned at Turners. The ministerial BMW responsible for chauffeuring John Key over the past three years is going under the hammer in Turners’ upcoming Prestige Auction.The 2008 BMW 730LD is among five ministerial BMWs that will be sold on 3 December at Turners Auctions’ Penrose branch.

“We were blown away by the public interest in the government BMWs at the last tender. With the Prime Minister’s car up for auction, we expect even more interest this time round,” says Graham Roberts, Chief Executive of Turners Auctions.

John Key’s vehicle has less than 48,000 kilometres on the clock and has been regularly serviced by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.With extra legroom in the back and a three litre diesel engine, that uses only seven litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, the vehicle would suit limousine hire businesses or a VIP taxi service.Turners expect the Prime Minister’s BMW to fetch between $62,000 and $68,000 at auction.

“The opportunity to buy a Prime Minister’s vehicle is extremely rare, so we expect collectors to be particularly interested in this one,” says Roberts.

Other stately vehicles to feature in the auction include a 1967 Roll Royce Phantom and a 2000 Bentley Arnage.For those after more muscle than sophistication, there is also an impressive line-up of American vehicles in the auction including a 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, two Ford Mustang GTs (2005 and 2006), as well as three 2010-2011 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS/RS coupes.Potential bidders can view the cars online at turners.co.nz, or at Turners Penrose branch, corner of Penrose and Leonard Roads, on Thursday 1 December from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Ferrari is mourning the death of Sergio Scaglietti, the designer who joined forces with Enzo Ferrari to produce some of the most legendary and sought-after sort after Ferraris in the company’s history.
“Today is a sad day for Ferrari,” said Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo.  “We lost a friend, a travel companion, a man who had his name forever connected to the Prancing Horse.  Sergio Scaglietti leaves behind the legacy of an artist who with his talent created some of the most beautiful cars of our history.  Those who had the luck to know him like I did will also remember him as a straightforward and honest man completely dedicated to his work.  We will miss him.”
Sergio Scaglietti, the legendary Ferrari coachbuilder, created some of the most famous Ferrari, such as the Ferrari California, the 250 Testa Rossa, the 250 GTO and the 750 Monza. Sergio Scaglietti was a real and natural talent who, as he liked to say, made cars with his hands and with his eyes.
Although the son of a carpenter, Sergio Scaglietti became known as the ‘maestro of aluminium’, such was his skill in designing and shaping metal into classic Ferraris.
His relationship with Enzo Ferrari started when the then young mechanic was asked repair a mud flap on one of Ferrari’s cars and in 1951 he opened his own business, Carrozzeria Scaglietti, at the tender age of 17. Shunning paper and pencils, Scaglietti produced cars from within his head and through his unique skill with a hammer and aluminium. The link continues today with all Ferrari production cars made in aluminium at Carrozzeria Scaglietti, which is now part of the Ferrari company.
Carrozzeria Scaglietti has been an integral part of Ferrari much of its history and to underline his unique relationship with the Modena coachbuilder, Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo dedicated the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti to him.

The new 911 Cabriolet is expected in New Zealand show rooms sometime in April 2012, approximately one month after the Coupe arrives with local specification and pricing due to be released nearer to launch.

The ‘lightweight’ programme begun in the Coupe with its new aluminium body that continues on to the Cabriolet which also includes an all new lightweight fabric hood. The innovative roof design extends to its appearance which mimics the silhouette of its hard top sibling.

Each of the two new Cabriolet models will receive the same flat six engine as its Carrera Coupe equivalent.  The Carrera Cabriolet is fitted with a 3.4-litre flat six engine producing 257kW at the rear wheels through a seven speed manual gearbox and the Carrera S boasts a 3.8-litre flat six engine producing 294kW also through a seven speed gearbox as standard.

San Francisco – Bonhams is extremely pleased to announce that it has been entrusted to represent what is regarded as one of the most important collections of motorcycles to come to market in years. From the prominent American family Du Pont, a name synonymous with a chemical empire, a luxury automobile manufacturer, and Indian motorcycle – America’s first motorcycle company, is a private museum collection three generations in the making.

Offered for the very first time, the collection of nearly 50 vintage motorcycles spanning 70 years of history contains many important and impressive machines, a good number of them Indian.

As an investor of the Indian Motocycle (sic) Company since 1923, Eleuthere Paul du Pont took over the ailing company in 1929 and helped usher in one of the most successful eras – financially, competitively, technologically and stylistically – in Indian’s history. As a result of this, the Du Pont family collection contains numerous Indian models – many of which were restored at Indian’s Springfield, Mass. factory – such as Camelback, Singles, Twins, Board Track Racer, Prince, Scout, Chief and Four, not to mention the following noteworthy individuals:

• A completely untouched, original condition circa 1903 Indian Camelback
• 1908 Indian Camelback with an early restoration by the Indian factory
• 1908 Indian Twin restored by the factory and displayed at the Franklin Institute of Philadelphia
• An extremely rare original paint 1909 Pope Single
• Circa 1915 Indian Twin Board Track Racer acquired in the 1950s
• What is believed to be the last Indian Chief supplied to a dealer

Additionally, some notable British motorcycles are included such as a 1951 Vincent Black Shadow with just 3,000-odd miles from new and a believed ex-Francis Beart 1959 Norton Manx, as well as numerous Triumph models. In all, the Du Pont family collection includes the following marques from America, Europe and Japan: BSA, Ducati, Gilera, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Indian, Merkel, Ner-A-Car, Norton, Peugeot, Pope, Scott, Simplex, Stephens, Suzuki, Triumph, Vincent and Yamaha.

The Du Pont Museum Collection will be offered at the second annual Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Sale on January 12th, inside the famous Auto Collections museum at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino on The Strip.

With limited opportunity still available, owners interested in consigning an important motorcycle(s) to this sale may call 415-391-4000 or e-mail motors.us@bonhams.com. Alternatively, for the nearest international representative, please visit bonhams.com/usa/motorcycles.

Never heard of British sports car manufacturer Atalanta Motors? You’re not alone, the boutique builder, originally located in Staines Middlesex, England, manufactured vehicles from 1937 until  the outbreak of World War II in 1939.

So what? You could ask. Well it turns out that Atalanta is set for a comeback under the new ownership of Martyn Corfield who recently purchased the nameplate.

Back in the day, Atalanta was responsible for producing some truly cutting-edge cars, equipped with such modern advances as fully independent coil spring suspensions, adjustable dampers, hydraulic brakes, a semi-automatic gearbox and a twin-spark cylinder head.

Atalanta cars were good enough for the factory to take home the team prize in the 1939 Welsh Rally, which would prove to be the brand’s most significant racing achievement before the second world war halted production.

Now in 2011, the new owner Corfield plans to revive the pedigree of this forgotten brand. In his words, “Atalanta is one of the greatest untold British motoring heritage stories. What might have been had the war not interrupted development?”

Corfield plans to find out, by taking a timeless British roadster design and updating it to modern standards of safety, performance and reliability. The first ‘new’ Atalanta will be based on the old companys 1938 Le Mans entry as a starting point. From this they will develop a prototype, which will be revealed next year, 75 years after the first Atalanta was developed.