Pendine is offering a rare and historically significant 1954 Frazer Nash Le Mans Coupe, one of only nine ever made. The car was originally displayed at the Earls Court Motor Show in London.
Key Takeaways
- The coupe is one of just nine manufactured and has a rich racing history from 1954 to the late ’60s.
- It features an upgraded Bristol engine with higher compression for better performance.
- The car comes with non-standard factory options like adjustable radiator slats, center-lock wheels, and sliding seats.
This Le Mans Coupe was introduced in 1953 as Frazer Nash’s first closed production model. It shares its chassis frame and engine with the Targa Florio but includes a hard top instead of an open body style.
FN197, the eighth car off the line, is notable for being displayed at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1954 by Anthony Twentyman, who lent it to AFN. It’s also known for its special engine built with a higher compression ratio than standard models.
The coupe saw racing action throughout the ’50s and early ’60s before being laid up for two decades until Gerry Montpellier of France acquired it in 1995. Richard Pilkington then secured FN197 at Retromobile Auction, followed by Peter Jay who restored it to pristine condition.
Today, the car is eligible for prestigious events like Mille Miglia and Le Mans Classic due to its originality and racing heritage. It’s now available through Pendine with a rich history spanning over six decades of ownership changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Frazer Nash Le Mans Coupe still in running condition?
The car has been meticulously restored and is described as reliable, having participated in several European events recently.
What special features does this particular coupe have compared to other models?
This specific model includes adjustable radiator slats, center-lock wheels, Al-fin brake drums, sliding seats, and a unique ‘fly off’ handbrake system.
The 1954 Frazer Nash Le Mans Coupe is not just an automotive marvel but also a piece of racing history that could be part of future classic car events around the world.
