• The only 25hp model known to survive • Present family ownership since 1980 • Restored in the 1980s and 1990s • Extensively campaigned on VCC events • Last used on the 'Best of West Kent' rally in 2022 One of the greatest names in the history of the automobile, Frederick Lanchester began his career as an engineer at the Forward Gas Engine Co of Saltley, near Birmingham, where he rose to become its works manager and chief designer.

He patented a pendulum inertia governor while there, and would go on to file a further 425 patents in the course of a remarkably inventive life.

With his younger brother George taking his place as works manager, Frederick began experimenting with small gasoline engines.

He began work on what would be the UK's first four-wheeled petrol car of entirely native design in 1895, producing a tiny handful of prototypes, and in December 1899 the Lanchester Engine Company Ltd was formed to manufacture motor cars.

During 1900 six cars were built, all retained for t...