1926 Vauxhall 14/40 Sports Special

• Expertly engineered in New Zealand using a 14/ 40 Chassis

• Powered by a modified 23-60 engine with many 30-98 benefits

• Recent specialist attention to suspension and brakes

• Connolly hide upholstery

• Fast, agile and eligible for a number of sporting events

Once regarded as Bentley’s superior, the humble Vauxhall wasn’t always so retiring…. In fact, the slogan “the car of grace that sets the pace’ gives some appreciation of how Vauxhall’s prestigious 30/98 from 1913 once set the standard!

Whilst similar in many ways to the mighty 30/98, our car, affectionately referred to as a ‘Sports Special’ is constructed from a 14/40 chassis from 1926, though it houses the greater capacity 4224cc engine of the 23/60 with further developmental tweaks to emulate even more closely the 30/98 at the top of the tree.

Our car’s early life was in New Zealand where the Luton-built Vauxhalls garnished a strong reputation for their ability to cover the mileage necessary in a vast country. Quite accidentally, the dry climate has clearly helped to preserve the chassis of this car, though most of what more you can see has come in more recent years. Specifically, post-2004, when the chassis, with only a few spares and no engine, running gear, body or wings was sold from the estate of respected professor, Bruce Robson, of Christchurch. Over the next ten years, the car was to be restored in New Zealand to replicate a 30/98 utilising a 23/60 engine and gearbox, a Velox-style fabricated body, cycle wings, a long-range fuel tank and a well-considered dashboard with period Vauxhall instruments.

Fast-forward to 2016 and this Vauxhall Special has now been imported to the UK, registered on the period-correct registration, BF 7763, and now belonging to an enthusiast in Cheshire who further developed the car for his requirements. Those being; it should handle better, and stop when asked. With the aid of some specialist Engineers such as Brewster Mudie Ltd of Bromsgrove, this, as well as a full engine health check and subsequent green light was achieved to the tune of some £10,500 in 2017.

Next was the trim. For a modest £3,500 our car now boasts a beautifully crafted and sympathetic to the period black Connolly Leather front and rear seats, door cards and side screens. Further, a high-quality and durable tonneau and convertible hood with rear-mounting hood bag were constructed too. Splendid.

A known car in Vauxhall circles, and recognised by the 30/98 Register and VSCC, this lightweight Special with comparatively potent engine is a useful tool for hillclimb, trialling, and even rallying if one chose. Available for viewing immediately at our North Yorkshire showroom, your serious interest is welcomed.