1977 Merlyn Mk30 Formula Ford 1600 Single-Seater
Chassis no. 532-FF-77 30

Essex-based Colchester Racing Developments built the first Merlyn, a front-engined Formula Junior prototype, in 1960, going on to produce a Mk2 version for customer sale. A mid-engined Mk3 followed in 1963 and the firm proceeded to build a number of single-seater Formula cars and sports cars during the 1960s, the Mk10 Formula 3 design providing the basis for its first Formula Ford, the Mk11. Before long the Merlyn Mk11 was the car to beat, the works entry driven by Tim Schenken winning 28 races out of 33 starts in 1968. Formula Ford models made up the bulk of production during the 1970s, including the last Merlyn of all, the Mk31 of 1978. CRD still exist as precision engineers CRD Tool & Engineering and remain engaged in the manufacturer and supply of spare parts, making Merlyns among the easiest maintained of historic Formula Fords. This Merlyn Formula Ford was sold new to H&M Factors on 10th June 1977, minus engine. Its early history is not known. The current owner purchased the car approximately 10 years ago and competed with it for two seasons of historic Formula Ford racing, during which period it was professionally prepared. For the last seven years it has not been used, apart from the occasional track day. Described as in generally good condition, the car comes with a spare engine and purpose-built trailer.