
1953 C-Type FIA HTP
- Superb ’tool room copy’ of a 1953 Production Specification C-Type
- Subtly modified for Historic Racing
- Long term ‘passion project’ by race prep expert for own use
- FIA HTP granted in 2021
- Beautifully detailed throughout using original components
- Competitive race car which is also user friendly for the road
- Eligible for high profile historic events like the Woodcote or Stirling Moss Trophy
The specification of these Production cars differed from the original three Works cars only in minor details: e.g. different bonnet louvres, unlightened chassis, and 2″ SU H8 carburettors instead of the Le Mans cars’ 1¾”. The C-Type represented the state-of-the-art in racing car engineering and was one of the most advanced road vehicles in the world. It was the epitome of a ‘driver’s car’, and customers included Formula One World Champions Farina; Ascari and Fangio, who bought them as road cars, as well as privateers who wanted to race.
This specification was the starting point for this superb recreation, a passion project that began over 10 years ago, with the sourcing of a genuine 1951 XK120 donor. Rebuilt around a tubular chassis frame and featuring front and rear adjustable torsion bar suspension, as per original C-type specification, the handcrafted body is constructed from 16 gauge aluminium. The front suspension includes original C-Type components with casting numbers, sourced by the owner.
Under the bonnet is a period-correct 3.4 litre engine with original and rare C 4820 cylinder block; sandcast H8 SU carburettors and a C Type sump. Not only was it built to be correct, it was also designed to be a competitive full race engine with billet crank, arrow rods and Cosworth pistons. The dyno sheets show it producing 300 bhp. The investment in the engine alone is over £30,000.
The original Moss gearbox has been fitted with a close ratio gear-set and a C Type top cover as per the original. To comply with FIA regulations the fuel tank is a period-correct long-range foam-filled alloy tank. The car is fitted with drum brakes, racing clutch and detachable roll bar.
Granted FIA HTP in 2021 this superb example is eligible to race in the Woodcote or Stirling Moss trophy and other international events.
The C-Type has always been perceived as a gentleman racer’s car that could be driven to the circuit, raced and driven home, and this car was conceived in the same spirit. It is UK road registered and can be enjoyed as a fast road/race car or with a change of clutch as a civilised daily driver.
Suitably understated in Birch Grey, a rare and original C Type factory colour, the car looks stunning with it black leather seats and silver Hardura interior.
£POA