Description
Railton Little Fairmile 3 Position Drophead Coupe
The majority of the circa 1500 cars produced by powerboat aficionado Noel Macklin’s Railton Cars company were powered by Hudson straight-eight engines, but, in 1938 the company introduced two smaller four-cylinder 10hp models based on the Standard Flying 10 chassis. Originally designed as a lighter car for Macklin’s daughter only 50 vehicles were manufactured and today the art-deco styling in a small package is a delightful combination.
The large history file indicates that our car was purchased in Malawi by Mr E Bates in 1974 and shipped back to the UK via Mozambique, Rhodesia, Botswana, and South Africa. In 1997 the car changed hands and a complete photographic restoration initiated by the new owner, A. W. Lockwood. The coachwork was completely stripped to bare metal and repainted, engine/ running gear checked, all chrome work re-chromed and a new hood and frame, in keeping with the original car, fitted.
Most recently, in 2015, the Railton was the subject of a complete engine re-build and mechanical refresh at Motorvation (Hertfordshire) with invoices in excess of £10, 000.
Today the Little Fairmile is one of the most competent and prettiest small pre-war classics that you could wish to own. The bodywork, chrome, interior are all outstanding and on the road the car drives extremely well with the four speed gearbox and a willing engine the car is easy to drive and very capable. I am over six foot and the suicide doors make for easy entry/ exit and the seat will adjust to provide ample leg room for driving – much better than similar cars from the period,
Approximately 50 Little Fairmile’s were built and today the Railton Club estimate that less than 10 survive. This rare car is welcome at any Classic Show and absolutely perfect for events such as the Goodwood Revival. We recommend viewing in order to fully appreciate her charms
