29-07-2021, 10:52 AM
(This post was last modified: 29-07-2021, 11:02 AM by Hedd_Jones.)
(28-07-2021, 10:48 PM)Chris Garner Wrote: Count Louis Zborowski , a friend of Lionel Martin, raced several early Aston Martin models from 1922 through to 1923. Famed for his creation of " Chitty Bang Bang " an aero engined Mercedes in various iterations, he was killed whilst racing at Monza in 1924.
The black car pictured, in its original form was one of the 2 Grand Prix cars of 1922 built for Zborowski. Built to race at the IOM they missed the race, but raced at the French GP at Strasbourg. This one is 'TT2' driven by Clive Gallop at Strasbourg. TT1 is also still about, but in a more 'grand prix' condition.
The car was 'modernised' in the 1930's and lost the twin cam engine in the 40's.
It was funny at Audlem, some bloke turns up in a giant Bentley, not entered, arrived late so parked in the entrance. You all know the craik, all the numptys drooling at the mouth at what looks to be a 'Birkin Bentley'. Big fat tyres, the stereotypical open body etc etc.
A quick google reveals its a pukka Bentley, a 6 1/2 litre job, (so very nice indeed) ex Gurney & Nutting Saloon, and by my estimation probably 6 foot or so lopped out of the chassis. So what we had in front of us was, and to quote my mate 'Dave' ''A pretend racing car''.
Whereas on the field was a real racing car, and not just any racing car, a former grand prix car, once owned by one of the most famous racers of his time. It certainly got some interest, but its significance was lost most.