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£19,550 (Est: £25,000 - £30,000)
Ex-Ken Wharton 1951 Cooper-JAP Mark V 500cc Formula 3 Single-Seater
United Kingdom • 13 Sept 2025
Vehicle Details
AI Listing Summary
This 1951 Cooper-JAP Mark V is a Formula 3 single-seater with significant racing history, notably driven by Ken Wharton. It retains its original features and is eligible for historic racing events, making it a desirable collector's item despite some expected wear from age and use.
Condition
7
The car is described as being in 'exceptionally original condition' and 'wonderfully patinated original aluminium panels', suggesting it's well-preserved but shows its age. It was 'lovingly refreshed' at some point. Some wear is likely visible, but it is not described as having major damage, dents, or needing significant reconditioning.
/ 10
Transmission:
Manual
Chassis No:
[Chassis No]
Odometer:
[Odometer Reading]
Reg Number:
[Reg Number]
RHD/LHD:
[RHD/LHD]
• Exceptionally original condition • In-period competition history • Eligible for many prestigious Historic events • Former Goodwood competitor Chassis number 'MKV/19/51' was ordered new by Ken Wharton and delivered with alternative Norton and JAP engine mounts for £465 on 12th January 1951.
Already a seasoned campaigner, Wharton had competed in off-road trials, hill climbs, rallies and circuit races, and began racing in the new Formula 3 category in his own 'special' before acquiring this Cooper.
Formula 3 had been recognised by the FIA in 1950 and Wharton made his World Championship Grand Prix debut at the 1952 Swiss GP where he started 13th on the grid and finished 4th.
He participated in a total of 15 World Championship Grands Prix and won the British Hill Climb Championship every year from 1951 to 1954.
He remains the only driver to have won four successive BHCC titles.
Other successes included winning the Brighton Speed Trials in 1954, 1955 and 1956, and the Tulip Rally in 1...
Points of note
£19,550
Lowest Price (Since 2020)
£23,000
Median Price (Since 2020)
£26,450
Highest Price (Since 2020)
World Record
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Rare Sale
This vehicle comes to market rarely. In auction records we've only seen 6 sold before
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Previous Sales
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