Description
We are privileged to offer this superbly presented and very rare Lea Francis 2 ½ litre Sports.
Following on from the highly regarded 14HP model, the new 2 ½ litre car was launched in 1949 in two guises, a saloon and a sports tourer. The twin high camshaft engine, designed by Hugh Rose, was influenced by the pre-war Riley Big Four, an example of which he used during the war years. It is distinguished by its individual rocker covers and has two SU H3 carburettors, a compression ratio of 7 or 7. 63:1 and high-lift camshafts.
Other fundamental differences from the 14HP car were the adoption of independent front suspension and a hydro-mechanical braking system. The new 2 ½ litre also featured a fixed three- piece windscreen, wind-up windows and a small rear bench seat, making it more of a grand tourer when compared with the more spartan 14HP Sports.
Being a hand built car from a small manufacturer, production was modest and it is believed 83 2 ½ litre Sports were produced of which a little more than half survive, making it a rare car indeed.
This particular car was built in 1950 but little is known of its history prior to the 1970s when it was the subject of a body off rebuild to a high standard and promptly won a concours award. It has remained within the same family since its rebuild.
More recently much work has been done to maintain its fine condition including a bare metal respray, new tonneau, custom made stainless steel exhaust manifold, new front suspension bushes and shock absorbers, rear springs, rebuilt back axle and water pump, new floor, fuel pump and hoses, re-sleeved master and wheel cylinders and the cylinder head has been rebuilt with new oil supply to the rockers.
That the Lea Francis has been fastidiously maintained is evident from the moment you sit in the car. It has a very good feel and the engine starts instantly. On the road the torquey 2 ½ litre engine pushes the car along quite rapidly and easily keeps up with modern traffic. The rebuilt steering box and well set up brakes contribute to a most enjoyable drive.
The body is in excellent condition with exact shut lines and the black paintwork presents very well indeed. The dark red interior suits it well. Presently the car does not have a hood, although the frame does come with the car and the wind up windows are fully functional. Also present but not fitted are the front quarter bumpers and mounting bracket.
There is a large quantity of spares with the car including a complete front suspension and a steering box.
This is a very well cared for motor car and will surely provide the next owner with much enjoyment and entry to all manner of prestigious events.
For more information and to arrange a viewing call James or contact us via the website.
We will happily consider taking an interesting classic vehicle in part exchange.
Thank you for reading.
