Descrizione
Derry Mallalieu was a brilliant engineer, race car driver and classic car enthusiast. During his years in the US he was able to develop a prototype that combined all three disciplines in a unique way. His ingenuity inspired him to modify a Bentley MK VI by placing the powerful engine and transmission 18 inches rearwards and build a much lighter aluminum roadster body over a reinforced chassis. His final product was so well received that upon his return in the UK, he established a production line at Abington, namely Derby Mallalieu Co. and Engineering. From 1974 through 1978 four models were offered, the 2+2 Barchetta, the fixed top Berlinetta and the 2 seaters Oxford and Mercia. The Mercia has been considered to be the most elegant mainly because its aluminum frame permitted Mallalieu to freely sculpture its mesmerizing silhouette. In total, only 18 vehicles were ever produced by Mallalieu's company, the 9th of which and 3rd Mercia is the one presented here.
Mallalieu Mercia chassis B146FV was manufactured on February of 1977 featuring Bentley's 4, 2lt straight 6 engine, 4-speed transmission with 2-4sp synchros and gear lever to the right. The Mercia-style body was specially built by Mallalieu at Wilkinson of Derby coachbuilders. Upon completion it was dispatched to North America's Mallalieu distributor Roy Hanson. Its first owner took possession of the Mercia and decided to bring her with him to Ireland. In 1989 the Mercia was repatriated and registered to Paradise Garage in London and 2 owners later to a Mallalieu connoisseur and collector in Ipswich. Throughout 15 years of ownership, he provided care through some of the most reputable repair specialists such as P & A Wood and Harvey West Ltd. In 2007 the Mercia was sold to its current owner who in turn felt that it should receive the best of care. He requested the services of the experts at Fiennes Restorations who conducted an exceedingly fastidious, year-long renovation of the axles, steering, suspension, wiring, brakes and carburetors at a cost of over 49000 euros. Since its completion the car has been kept in climate controlled garage and driven only 500 miles in one decade for maintenance purposes only. It currently remains in immaculate condition. It is now offered for the first time in 11 years along with a comprehensive restoration, service and ownership file.
Specifications
Make: Mallalieu
Model: Mercia
Body type: 2-seater roadster
Chassis number: B146 FV
Engine number: B73F
Engine type: 4257cc, in line 6, 7:1 compression, SU-carburetted, valve gear overhead inlet
Transmission type: 4 speed plus reverse, 2-4 synchronized, Borg & Beck single plate, side R lever
Weight: 1270kg
Odometer reading: 29427miles, actual
Current registration: British
