Description
The Frazer Nash was the direct descendant of the GN cycle car, a twin-cylinder, chain driven vehicle produced until 1922 by the partnership of Captain Archie Frazer-Nash and H R Godfrey. Archie Frazer-Nash then formed a new company and in 1924 the first Frazer Nash appeared. In 1928 Captain Frazer-Nash left the company, which then came under the control of H J and W H Aldington. Between 1924 and 1954, when production effectively ceased, approximately 450 Frazer Nash cars were produced, of which 350 were pre-war 'chain gang' models.
Although the chain drive is highly unusual (for a motor car of the period), a chain is more efficient than almost any other form of transmission and the Frazer Nash system was one of the best.. With their unique form of drive, Frazer Nash cars oversteered dramatically under power, and it was said at the time that 'Frazer Nashes never go round corners, they merely change direction.'
This very well known and original example was owned for the majority of its life by one of the most prominent supporters of the ‘Nash community, both in words and deeds, the great David Thirlby. Bought by him in 1953 and subsequently passed to his equally enthusiastic daughter the car perfectly embodies the enduring appeal of the ‘Chain Gang’ Nash and the accompanying community whose infamous ‘raids’ largely the brainchild of Thirlby are regarded as truly memorable with just a hint of the clandestine about them!
Originally completed as a Super Sports and registered in August 1927, chassis 1132, with the same registration as it carries today, PH 3682. It is recorded that during the ownership of famed racing driver, commentator and writer, John Bolster the car was rolled and was rebodied by the works in 1933 to its current ‘Boulogne’ specification. Extensive paperwork and photo albums accompany the car which record in detail all the care and expense that the car has benefited from over the decades. A regular attendee on the aforementioned ‘raids’ since their formation in 1969 until the most recent in 2019. Since then, it has participated in various other rallies and tours including completing 1000 miles in 24 hours in France! Although not fitted, the original Anzani engine also comes with the car.
A really proper and genuine ‘Chain gang’ which represents great value at around half the cost of a TT replica…
