Lot 302: 1969 Martin Sports Prototype BM7 Coupe

In an age when individuals could still build and race their own machinery, this particular sports prototype stands out from the crowd. Built by Brian Martin, a well known racing driver, who had by the late 1960's produced and raced several of his own vehicles starting off with an MGA at the age of 18. He moved on rapidly to circuit racing with an MG/Ford Hybrid named the 'Martin BM1' with the BM2 being a modified Lotus 7 with a Diva body. The BM3, BM4 and BM5 being GT coupes powered by 1500 cc Ford engines. By the time his latest prototype, the BM6 was built, he had already perfected both good handling and styling and moved on now to a 2 Litre BMW engine and Hewland transaxle. His BM7 that we are pleased to offer for sale originally started life in 1969 with Prototype Spider coachwork. This was replaced in 1970 with its current Coupe coachwork by Jeff Richards. Powered by a 2 Litre Ford BDA engine and Hewland FT200 transmission, this highly competitive Sports Prototype was heralded as a contender to beat the dominant Chevrons of this period in the 2 Litre class. BM7 has undergone an extensive restoration in 1999-2000 and is featured in the 'Erlebniswelt Nurburgring' Museum at the legendary German race course. It has also been campaigned at many historic race meetings including the Oldtimer Grand Prix at the Nurburgring and the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Supplied with current FIA papers, this unique piece of motoring history with a highly competitive chassis and running gear, would certainly be attractive for any potential competitor in either Group 4 or Super Sports Championship racing.Cette voiture a participiee dans des nombreuses courses historiques en GB et en Europe