Single family ownership from new
1935 Frazer Nash-BMW 315 Three-position Drophead Coupé
Coachwork by E Bertelli Ltd
Registration no. FCV 1
Chassis no. 70721
Engine no. 70721

Introduced in 1934, the BMW 315 boasted a 1½-litre six-cylinder engine, twin-tube chassis with transverse-leaf IFS, a synchromesh gearbox and mechanical brakes. Good for around 65-70mph, the 315 was sold in the UK as the Frazer-Nash BMW Type 34, AFN Ltd having concluded an agreement with BMW for the importation of their motor cars, some having German bodies and others locally made coachwork.

This particular car features a three-position drophead coupé body made by E Bertelli Ltd of Feltham, a coachbuilder best known for its association with Aston Martin. It is believed Berteill bodied only three BMW 315s to this design. The car was purchased new by the vendor's parents and registered as 'FCV 1' on 21st June 1939.

Ownership passed to the vendor on 30th December 1968. Driven and serviced regularly, the car competed in the Speed Hill Climb at Trengwainton, Cornwall on a few times but otherwise was used as a daily driver. It was last on road in 1976. Notable features include Triumph Herald 1200 hydraulic front disc brakes (a BMW Club approved conversion by Mr Ken Willis); André Telecontrol shock absorbers fitted to the rear axle; and a 4.3:1 ratio final drive, raised from 5.1:1 (original components with car). The car retains its original hood, interior leather, and carpets.

As one would expect of an 83-year-old car that has enjoyed single family ownership from new, the accompanying history file is impressively extensive, containing three old-style logbooks; owner's data sheet; old tax discs; a selection of in-period road tests; Trengwainton programme; a quantity of AFN correspondence, sundry invoices; current V5C; and assorted technical and maintenance literature, etc. The car also comes with its original radiator muff; starting handle; boot key; radiator cap spanner; ignition key; cigarette holder; tyre pump; a pair of André friction dampers; various other spare parts; and an original roll of BMW tools (full list available).

The vendor advises us that the car will require a bare-metal re-spray, re-chrome, refurbishment, etc where necessary before returning to the road. This classic pre-war Frazer Nash-BMW represents a wonderful opportunity to own a car suitable and eligible for all manner of competitions.