- Rare, internationally-collectible chain-drive Frazer Nash
- Many period enhancements, including rebuilt Meadows engine
- Long list of notable Australian owners
A rare and internationally-known chain drive 1926 Frazer Nash Super Sports previously owned by well-known Australian vehicle collectors has already attracted International interest from collectors ahead of its auction by Shannons in Sydney on February 17.
According to the register of Frazer Nash cars, chassis 1090 was delivered originally to the well-known racing driver S. H. "Sammy" Newsome fitted with a side-valve Anzani engine.
It is understood to have raced on the banking at Brooklands and the famous Shelsley Walsh hill climb, before being taken to Australia in 1936 by its next owner, William M. Morgan, a major shareholder in Western Mining.
It then passed through an 'A-list' of Australian motoring 'Royalty' over the years, including Ted Hider-Smith, Neville Webb, Geoff Berry, then Lance Dixon in Victoria and Garry Rainsford in South Australia, during which its original frame was lightened, its brakes were converted to hydraulics and it was fitted with a more powerful rebuilt Meadows engine.
More recently fitted with correct 19-inch rims with original-type centres and a rebuilt gearbox, the car represents a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire one of the few remaining 'Chain Gang' Frazer Nashes left in the country and certainly one of the most affordable examples of the marque to come on the open market in recent years.
Shannons has had international interest in the car and expect it to sell in the $130,000 - $150,000 range on February 17.
Other interesting Pre-War cars in the auction include a very useable 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 HP with original period Mulliner saloon coachwork that arrived in New South Wales after World War II that is expected to sell in good running condition with 'no reserve' for $40,000 - $50,000.
Jaguar collectors will also be interested in an eye-catching Lavender-painted Jaguar SS 2½ Litre Saloon that was one of the stars of the 1936 Melbourne Motor Show that is also being sold with 'no reserve', which at its very realistic $15,000-$20,000 guiding range represents a potentially rewarding restoration project.
A little more modern, but offered in exceptional, professionally-restored and concours winning is a 1952 Riley RMB 2½ Litre Saloon that is regarded as one of the finest RMBs in Australia and is expected to bring $25,000 - $30,000.
To view all Shannons February 17 Sydney Summer Auction lots, visit www.shannons.com.au
For more auction information contact: Stuart Roberts (02) 8019 4179, or Damien Duigan (02) 8019 4180
For media information and publication-quality photos, please contact: Michael Browning 0418 324 328
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