Sold | 1924 American LaFrance Speedster

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£50,625

1924 American LaFrance Speedster

United Kingdom • 14 Jun 2023

Vehicle Details

AI Listing Summary

This 1924 American LaFrance Speedster, originally a fire engine, has been extensively rebuilt into a unique Speedster configuration. It features a massive 14.5-liter straight-six engine, chain drive, and uprated power steering, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The conversion included chassis shortening, suspension modifications, and a custom fuel tank, with attention paid to maintaining a period-appropriate aesthetic.

Condition

7

The vehicle is described as being built into a Speedster configuration at great expense over three years, suggesting significant restoration and customization. The vendor describes the driving experience as 'unrivalled' and the presentation as 'delightful,' indicating high-quality work. The listing mentions new parts, machining, and attention to detail (such as aging new wheel rims), which implies a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. However, the conversion from a fire engine and the modifications made (e.g., shortening the chassis, inverting rear springs) mean it's not in its original factory condition.

/ 10

Transmission:

Manual

Chassis No:

5719

Odometer:

[Odometer Reading]

Reg Number:

BF 7976

RHD/LHD:

RHD

Forever synonymous with broken road surfaces, billowing dust clouds, drainpipe exhausts and terrifying drift angles, the 'chain-drive era' is for many one of the most romantic in motoring history.

Indeed, it is not hard to see why some people go to such great lengths to recreate or mimic the leviathan racers of the Veteran and Edwardian ages.

Designed for quite a different purpose, the chassis and running gear from American LaFrance fire appliances have long been sought after by enthusiasts who consider propshafts and the like a touch too ordinary, with huge displacement meeting chain drive in connection with wooden spoked wheels providing exhilarating excitement.

Manufactured new in Elmira, Chemung County, New York City in 1924, this now nearly 100-year-old vehicle began life as a Type 75 Fire Engine.

Its post-service history is unknown until the LaFrance was discovered in a barn in Upstate New York in 2014.

Subsequently shipped to the United Kingdom, chassis number 5719 was conv...