Lot 217: 1965 Volvo Amazon 122S Competition

The Top Hat race series for pre-'66 Gp.2 historic cars has changed the format of historic racing. No more do competitors have to trailer their cars for hundreds of miles to experience the brief thrill of a 12-lap 'clubbie' race when they can set off enthusiastically savouring the knowledge that a 1-hour Top Hat endurance race awaits them. This Volvo Amazon has been a regular competitor in the Top Hat series - and a reliably quick entry - arguably being one of the best-prepared circuit racing 'Amazons' in Europe. Such is the car's reputation that it gained the distinction of an invitation to the 2005 Revival Meeting at Goodwood where it acquitted itself well, coming home 12th o/a in the combined results of the 2-driver event (partnered by the distinguished Mike Salmon) and establishing a fastest lap of 1.41.626 - no mean feat against the likes of Ford Mustangs, Galaxies and Falcons on their favourite 'power' circuit. The specification of this car is impressive: Power comes from a David Methley prepared B18 engine (currently running on twin Weber carburettors) producing 170 bhp @ 7,000 rpm. A close ratio gearbox is fitted as well as an uprated, Swedish specialist-prepared, rear axle fitted with 3.9 ratio and a competition limited slip differential. The body is all steel, fitted with Perspex windows and is presently presented in 'Goodwood' specification, complete with all required trim and bumpers. The suspension has been race honed over a number of seasons' racing and the package can now boast the following lap times:Chimay: 2.26Castle Combe: 1.29Donington: 1.33Mallory Park: 1.00Pau: 1.48Goodwood: 1.41 Full FIA compliant safety features are installed throughout and the car is offered by the vendor 'on the button'. As the owner has enjoyed invitations to races without the need of FIA papers, the vendor has not seen the need to apply for such. However he is of the opinion that this car would require only the changing of the carburettors from Weber type to those of SU to comply - a straight forward operation that can easily be achieved at short notice, requiring only minor rolling road recalibration. Here is a historic touring car, proven with distinction and built with the best equipment that money can buy. Eligible for a host of series, this is an opportunity to engage in mainstream historic racing at much less than half the cost of a comparable Lotus Cortina Mk.1.