Lot 134: 1949/59 CDL Chorlton Single Seat Race Car

During the 1920's and 30's, many enterprising individuals of the day modified and improved race cars or converted road cars for the track. One such person, Michael Chorlton, decided to take on the establishment and formed his own company to design and make top level racing cars. The basis for this car was a Bugatti 51A. The Bugatti, chassis number 51126, was imported in to the UK by Jack Lemon Burton to be raced. The car was then sold to Michael Chorlton where it was modified to include a single seat aluminium body work with four girling damped coil springs at the rear and independent suspension up front with the Bugatti axle being located laterally by springs of only one leaf and still using the original Bugatti chassis. The Bugatti side members were retained for the frame but were brought closer together and joined by a series of cross members. The Bugatti dry multi plate clutch and gearbox were also used. Wire wheels were fitted with Rudge hubs with the front items having the much-prized Italian Duralumin rims.The Chorlton was raced extensively including Isle of Man, Jersey, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and Goodwood. It was at Goodwood in the 1950 Easter Handicap where the Chorlton mixed it with the big boys of the day, coming fifth to Moss, de Graffenried, Bira and Hamilton.In 1951, Michael Chorlton died and subsequently the car was purchased in the late 1950's where the potential was obvious to the new owner. The Bugatti rear axle was replaced and a 2.5 litre prototype Alta engine and a pre-selector gearbox fitted. Once again the Chorlton took to the tracks, this time in VSCC events with its last race being the 1965 Seaman Trophy. The Chorlton then resided in the Griffin collection for several years.In the early 1990's the car was lovingly restored to its former glory using all original bodywork. The rear axle, front suspension, suspension mountings, steering components, fuel tank, chassis cross members, seat and many other original parts were maintained and a replacement four cylinder 2.5 litre Alta engine fitted, as it is found today.The Chorlton is presented in fantastic condition with the original aluminium body work showing reminders of its racing days when it was jostling for position with the likes of Moss et al. The car has been maintained to high standard and has all relevant FIA papers and VSCC buff form in order for it to be raced this coming season. The car has a unique continuous history dating back to pre-war days and includes period race programmes from events in which the car competed. The Chorlton will provide its new owner with superb open wheel racing at a fraction of the price of other cars that are eligible for similar events. It is also totally unique and is sure to turn heads in race paddocks and pit lanes this coming race season.