In the 1950s when new cars were scarce and young men could only afford worn-out pre-war saloons, a new industry grew up in the UK to help them build 'Specials' based on ancient chassis, supplying tuning equipment, modified suspensions and running gear and adventurous sporting bodywork to turn an Austin Seven, Ford Pop or whatever into a racy-looking sports job.

Some of the results were frankly abysmal, but with the right special equipment and an attractive, well-assembled body, you could turn out a potent and fun sports car.

Rochdale was one such example with the GT being their most successful model of which some 1,350 were sold between June 1957 and the factory fire of February 1961.

One of the most sophisticated bodyshells of the time, it was relatively easy to fit and included such advanced features as a curved windscreen, wind-up windows and opening quarterlights - cleverly incorporating Morris Oxford and Minor parts.

Finished in Red with Black upholstery, '134 XVB' has been ex...