Description
Period news articles make reference to the Semmence Special as one of the most immaculately turned-out specials of the inter-war period, and one that was remarkably reliable. Its reputation has been cemented by the comprehensive accounts from those who’ve known the car both then, and in the modern age.
Chassis: essentially a replica of the Frazer Nash/ GN, built with lightweight materials and featuring carefully reamed location holes to prevent stress fractures.
Front Suspension: Semmence designed and evolved the front suspension himself. The front axle was constructed from 2-inch diameter tubing, with springs and radius arm locating plates welded into place. The front axle knuckles and pins were brazed in a similar manner to Frazer Nash car.
Brakes: The Riley-sourced, 14-inch diameter front brakes were Bowdenex-operated, and drilled, saving 2 lbs per drum in to reduce unsprung mass.
Transmission: The transmission was a modified Frazer Nash unit with a GN straight-tooth crown wheel and pinion, featuring a 3. 2:1 ratio.
Bodywork: The lightweight aluminum body was made in three main sections and could be removed quickly. A skilled person could strip the entire body in under 45 minutes, leaving just the bare chassis for easy access to the engine and transmission.
The Semmence Special was officially born on August 19, 1937, when the engine was first fired up. Just two days later, it was entered in the Sussex Speed Trials at Lewes, completing the course in 28 seconds—though hindered by clutch slip and a misfire. After some development, the car achieved the same climb in 21. 16 seconds, reaching around 95 mph, and could have achieved over 100 mph.
The potential for development was clear. There is a Telegram on display at Brooklands which says; “I bet Fatty Semmence that on his HWS Special, powered by a six-cylinder AC engine with chain drive. He will not cover a flying mile at a speed in excess of 100 miles an hour during 1937. Odds were 5 pounds to one against him, the mile to be covered on the Brooklands test track, with the loser paying expenses.”
Our client acquired The Semmence Special during 2020. As a Nash man he had always admired the car from afar and it fulfilled his desire to own and race a single-seater with real history. When the opportunity arose during lockdown, he didn’t hesitate - and it was the perfect stablemate for his genuine Frazer Nash TT replica.
With motorsport firmly on hold, the new owner took the opportunity to undertake meticulous check-over and detailed rebuild: including, steering, brakes, transmission and more. The original bodywork was repaired where required, and the seating improved with an eye for detail and finish. The body was sent to Haslam’s of Bolton, known for their award-winning cellulose paint finish. A new seat was trimmed in leather by Julian Taylor.
Our client was keen to campaign the car sensitively, so the engine was kept to the existing performance specification, with some fine-tuning done by Tip Top Engineering Huddersfield. After 3 enjoyable years of on-track performance and experiences, he now desires to acquire another project.
We are delighted to assist with the sale of this important racing special, and invite your enquiries on this exciting addition to the THL portfolio. Ready to race and with scope for continued development, The Semmence Special is ready for its next chapter.
