Highlights
- Fully restored marinised 3.0-litre V6 Ford Essex engine
- Comprehensive upgrades, including uprated exhaust manifolds and carburettor
- Capable of speeds up to 35 knots/40 mph
- Striking red deck with gold stripe detail
The Appeal
Fans of classic British powerboats will be familiar with the excellent Ray Wright Delta.
Inspired by the earlier Albatross speedboat, the Delta featured a slightly longer hull for improved cockpit space, greater engine capacity, improved stability, and better high-speed handling. Early models were built from aluminium, leveraging wartime aircraft manufacturing techniques, before transitioning to more cost-effective fibreglass (GRP) in the late 1960s.
Praised for their sleek design and fun handling, they offered performance akin to a sports car on the water, with some capable of reaching 50 knots (about 57 mph). Deltas were popular for freshwater cruising and water skiing.
This 1976 model features the robust 3.0-litre V6 Ford Essex engine, known for its torque and reliability in marine applications. This particular example, named "Red Dwarf," has been thoughtfully upgraded since its purchase in 2018, creating a classic boat that's both visually striking and dependable for regular use. With its comprehensive engine rebuild and numerous mechanical improvements, this Delta will reportedly be ready for next season and sits upon a sturdy road trailer.
The vendor says:
"The Delta models run just as well at 10nmph and over 20nmph, and 'Red Dwarf' certainly rides well, creating the feeling of skimming across the top of the water. The hull design creates splendid port/starboard spray and fabulous engine notes coming from the V6 out of the two rear manifolds. Don't be put off by the unique size of such a punchy little run around - it's an eye catcher when parading along the river or lake."
Inspired by the earlier Albatross speedboat, the Delta featured a slightly longer hull for improved cockpit space, greater engine capacity, improved stability, and better high-speed handling. Early models were built from aluminium, leveraging wartime aircraft manufacturing techniques, before transitioning to more cost-effective fibreglass (GRP) in the late 1960s.
Praised for their sleek design and fun handling, they offered performance akin to a sports car on the water, with some capable of reaching 50 knots (about 57 mph). Deltas were popular for freshwater cruising and water skiing.
This 1976 model features the robust 3.0-litre V6 Ford Essex engine, known for its torque and reliability in marine applications. This particular example, named "Red Dwarf," has been thoughtfully upgraded since its purchase in 2018, creating a classic boat that's both visually striking and dependable for regular use. With its comprehensive engine rebuild and numerous mechanical improvements, this Delta will reportedly be ready for next season and sits upon a sturdy road trailer.
The vendor says:
"The Delta models run just as well at 10nmph and over 20nmph, and 'Red Dwarf' certainly rides well, creating the feeling of skimming across the top of the water. The hull design creates splendid port/starboard spray and fabulous engine notes coming from the V6 out of the two rear manifolds. Don't be put off by the unique size of such a punchy little run around - it's an eye catcher when parading along the river or lake."
History and Paperwork
- 1976 model with GRP layup
- Purchased by the current owner in February 2018
- Named "Red Dwarf"
- Full engine rebuild completed in 2018
- Additional upgrades added over time, making it a reliable and usable classic
The Condition
- Presents very well with red deck and gold stripe detail
- GRP hull in smart order; some marks commensurate with age
- Features a Cobra Le Mans-style fuel port for easy filling
- Includes various chrome/stainless steel details
- Comfortable ride with red cushions in very good condition
- Black upholstered dashboard
- Moto Lita steering wheel
- Stainless steel dial trim with classic white Smiths dials (all working)
- Painted steel road trailer with guide posts for easier launch/recovery procedure
- New wheels and hubs fitted
The Mechanics
- 3.0-litre Ford Essex V6 (marinised)
- Easy to self-service with an oil filling pump built onto the engine block
- High torque starter motor
- Water intake with high-pressure pump circulates cooling around the engine, exiting through the two exhausts
- Engine reportedly maintains temperature even at faster speeds (tested up to 40 mph)
- Performs well at sustained speeds during the vendor's testing
- Upgrades include exhaust manifolds, carburettor upgrade, and high torque starter motor
- Reportedly rides well, creating a feeling of skimming across the water
- Produces fabulous engine notes from the V6 through two rear manifolds
- Typically low engine use and always in fresh water, used annually, with the last run being September 2025
- Last full oil/filter change performed in September 2021
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