East Coast Retros at Bridge Classic Cars – Round-Up
October 11, 2021
On Sunday, October 10th, Bridge Classic Cars welcomed East Coast Retros to our Bentwaters and Pettistree sites to host one of their meets. Cars of
News
The Winners Circle – TVR S2 2.9 V6 Has a New Owner
October 8, 2021
10 o’clock yesterday morning. Charlotte drew the winning number of 2343 and that happened to be this man. Jarlath Joyce. When we went to call
The E10 Issue – Bridge Classic Cars E10 Conversion
October 8, 2021
As its name suggests, E10 petrol contains up to 10 per cent ethanol, twice the proportion of the E5 grade which has been the standard
Back Together – Carburettors for the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster are Rebuilt
October 8, 2021
The carburettors on the 1973 Fern Grey Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster are freshly rebuilt. Our master engine builder Ady spent many hows carefully
Up for Auction – Our 1965 Amphicar is now Car & Classic
October 8, 2021
It is now live! The auction of our 1965 Amphicar that was completely restored in-house by Bridge Classic Cars is live on the Car &
Behind The Scenes – Live Draw of the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6
October 8, 2021
A bit of a change to our usual schedule, the live draw for the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6 was drawn during the day this
Making Moves – Steering Teardown on the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4
October 8, 2021
Here at Bridge Classic Cars, our in-house restoration technician Mauro is hard at work continuing to teardown, inspect and catalogue the front end parts of
Cover Up – Fitting the New Rear Cover to the 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 7, 2021
What do you do when you have the roof down on your 1960s sports car and all of the cubby hole it fits into is
Opened Up – Our NCCSF 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition at the Lotus Training Centre
October 7, 2021
The Norwich City Community Support Foundation charity Lotus Elise was at the Lotus Training Centre today for the opening. It joined its other siblings, including
Parts for Sale – Vauxhall 2.3 Litre Big Valve 4 Cylinder Engine
October 7, 2021
For sale from Bridge Classic Cars is this Vauxhall 2.3 Litre Slant Engine. This engine, also known as a Big Valve engine, comes with a
Core Components – Teardown of the 1955 Aston Martin DB2 Front Axle
October 7, 2021
It’s crucial with a restoration to take note of what you take off the car. Our in-house restoration technician Mauro is fanatical about this. So,
And Breathe In – Assessing the Carburettors on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster
October 7, 2021
It’s crucial for any classic car to be able to breathe properly. Especially when it’s the V12 from our 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3
Falling into Place – Fitting the Headliner to a 1970 Dodge Charger
October 6, 2021
It’s been an absolute treat to have one of the most iconic muscle cars of all time in the trim shop of Bridge Classic Cars.
In With the New – Recommissioning the Cooling System on the 1973 MGB Roadster
October 6, 2021
The 1973 MGB Roadster we currently have in at Bridge Classic Cars for work has been having its cooling system gone through. Our in-house restoration
Closer Look – Investigating a Misfire on the 1971 Jaguar XJ6
October 6, 2021
The wealth of knowledge held in our workshop is incredible. Centuries almost of combined experience allow Bridge Classic Cars to look into a wide spectrum
Weather-Sealed – The Bespoke Hood Cover for the 1965 Amphicar
October 6, 2021
The 1965 Amphicar is already quite a unique and rare piece of automotive history. But, an original convertible hood cover? Slightly rare than hen’s teeth.
Down to the Bare Bones – Teardown on the 1956 Jensen 541
October 6, 2021
Here at Bridge Classic Cars, we’ve built a reputation for being one of the leaders in the restoration of the Jensen 541 family. The latest
Getting to the Root of the Issue – Rust Assessment on the 1984 Jaguar XJ Bonnet.
October 5, 2021
The bonnet on this 1984 Jaguar XJ is currently in with the Bridge Classic Cars paint and body teams to look into a rust issue
Out and About – VW Type 2 Campervan
October 5, 2021
Whilst out on the original photo shoot for our 1965 Amphicar, our Marketing manager Freddie snapped this photo. It’s a stunning VW Type 2 Camper.
Ground Up – Reupholstering the Rear Seat Doors on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster
October 5, 2021
The Bridge Classic Cars in-house trim team have worked their magic yet again. This time recovering the rear seat doors on the 1973 Jaguar E
Home From Its Travels – The 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition Back at Bentwaters
October 5, 2021
The charity Lotus Elise has been out doing its promotional tour recently. This time it had been at the Royal Norwich Golf Course to raise
Awoken From its Slumber – Collecting the 1956 Jensen 541
October 4, 2021
That’s our 1956 Jensen 541 safely in our enclosed transporter and on its way back to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in Pettistree. It had
Building Update – Roof is on the Bridge Classic Cars Extension
October 4, 2021
The new extension to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop finally has its roof on! The last bits of the structure has been put in place
On Her Majestys Service – Behind the Scenes Shooting the 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 4, 2021
The clouds grew ominous in the late September sky. Rain threatened to fall at any moment on the shoot. The car had only been in
Handed Down – 1959 MGA Twin Cam
October 4, 2021
There are certain things that get handed down through the generations. Something sentimental that have a certain connection to a person or place. This is
Held in Place – Removing the Radiator of the 1973 MG B Roadster
October 4, 2021
Work is continuing on the 1973 MG B Roadster that is in at Bridge Classic Cars to be recommissioned. This time, our in-house restoration technicians
Under & Over – Stripping Down the Rear Axle of the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4
October 4, 2021
Work has begun at Bridge Classic Cars on stripping down and cataloguing the rear axle components for the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 we have in
This Just In – 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 1, 2021
Hopefully, you will have all seen the news by now but if not, Bridge Classic Cars have got a fantastic 1966 Sunbeam Alpine in with
New Arrival – 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 1, 2021
This glorious little Sunbeam is on its way into our workshop at Bridge Classic Cars very soon!
On Tour – Previous Bridge Classic Cars Projects on the Road.
October 1, 2021
First up on tour is the amazing 1969 Ford Escort Twin Cam that was cruising around Ireland on holiday with its owner. We worked on
East Coast Retros at Bridge Classic Cars – Round-Up
October 11, 2021
On Sunday, October 10th, Bridge Classic Cars welcomed East Coast Retros to our Bentwaters and Pettistree sites to host one of their meets. Cars of all shapes and sizes found their way onto the pads surrounding our hanger.
Although the weather turned throughout the day, there was an amazing turnout. The cars and their owners were invited into the hanger to see what we currently have in and also to look around the latest competition cars parked proudly in the centre of the hanger.
The whole day was free for anyone to attend but we did manage to raise over £450 for the Norwich City Community Sports Foundation!
There was an incredible atmosphere around the event as people from all over the area came to be amongst friends and fellow petrolheads so we look forward to welcoming East Coast Retros back very soon!
Michael Turner – Gallery from East Coast Retros Facebook Page
Andrew Rodgers – Gallery from East Coast Retros Facebook Page
Steve Nash Photography – Gallery from East Coast Retros Facebook Page
Scott Keeble – Gallery from East Coast Retros Facebook Page
Scott Greening – Gallery from East Coast Retros Facebook Page
Guy Valentino – Gallery from East Coast Retros Facebook Page
The Winners Circle – TVR S2 2.9 V6 Has a New Owner
October 8, 2021
10 o’clock yesterday morning. Charlotte drew the winning number of 2343 and that happened to be this man. Jarlath Joyce. When we went to call him during the live stream it went to answerphone but as we found he wasn’t too far away.
When we called him later in the day to explain he was now the new owner of the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6, we discovered he was only in Felixstowe! So, it was arranged for himself and his wife to come down to the workshop in Pettistree to view their prize.
Always nice to see our winners at the workshop!
The E10 Issue – Bridge Classic Cars E10 Conversion
October 8, 2021
As its name suggests, E10 petrol contains up to 10 per cent ethanol, twice the proportion of the E5 grade which has been the standard for the last decade.
Worry not, the Government has pledged that there will be continued supplies of E5 petrol when E10 goes on sale, however, it may only be sold in the form of ‘Super’ grade unleaded and for how long, we haven’t had confirmed.
What are the effects on classic cars?
The main issues of increased Ethanol in the fuel are corrosion based. It degrades older rubber pipes and diaphragms, as well as cork, Zinc and Aluminium.
If the correct procedures have not been made, cars in long term storage can be affected too; fuel left in the tank, tubes and carbs will corrode them so therefore should be removed.
One of the other key concerns is how Ethanol will turn water acidic. Any water in the fuel system will draw out the Ethanol, which will then corrode metals such as fuel tanks and carburettor bowls. Ethanol breaks down sludge deposits in fuel tanks and pipes, which can then become blockages in filters and jets.
Ethanol contains oxygen, the increase in Ethanol means an increase in oxygen percentage, which in turn effectively reduces the fuel/air mixture and makes the engine run slightly lean. In a modern car, this is automatically adjusted by the ECU, whereas a classic with no ECU, needs further assistance.
E10 conversion by Bridge Classic Cars
All classic cars can run on E10 but all will need certain adjustments and changes to be made. No two are the same so it is impossible to offer a set figure to carry out a conversion but doing a relatively inexpensive upgrade will increase the life of your classic car and provide you with many more years of pleasurable driving.
The use of high-grade Nitrile pipes in place of the existing rubber ones will prevent pipe wear and replacement of fuel pumps for E10 rated will ensure you are safely preserving the components.
The fuel tank/s are removed, cleaned and assessed. The in-tank filter is replaced with a new, E10 compliant alternative.
All fuel lines are subjected to a full Nitrile pipe upgrade.
The in-line fuel filter and the fuel pump are replaced with an E10 rated component.
Our in-house technicians will strip, clean and service the carburettors. Cork gaskets are replaced with E10 rated alternatives (where possible)
The carburettors are altered to provide a slightly richer mixture, either by adjustment where the units allow, or the replacement of jets and emulsion tubes.
If you would like to talk about the conversion or need any more information on converting your classic car to run E10 fuel, then please get in touch!
Back Together – Carburettors for the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster are Rebuilt
October 8, 2021
The carburettors on the 1973 Fern Grey Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster are freshly rebuilt. Our master engine builder Ady spent many hows carefully dismantling each and every component to check for any damage.
Each of the pieces was given a clean bill of health by Ady. From there it was time to clean down every surface of the giant Strombergs. Ady always takes great pride in his work, he sat there and hand cleaned every individual part to continuously inspect the component while he cleaned away years of dirt.
With a full gasket rebuild kit, Ady managed to get the Carburettors back together in an afternoon, performing a small part of the set-up while still on the bench.
Next up for the carburettors is to be bolted up the manifold and put back on that glorious V12. Expect to see that very soon on the Bridge Classic Cars website.
Up for Auction – Our 1965 Amphicar is now Car & Classic
October 8, 2021
It is now live! The auction of our 1965 Amphicar that was completely restored in-house by Bridge Classic Cars is live on the Car & Classic website.
This car has had everything imaginable done to it. Not a single system hasn’t been made the best it can possibly be. To the point where it is completely road legal and water certified.
Also, this particular Amphicar (one of just 4000 built) is one of the first known to be completely E10 compliant. Meaning this is really the most useable classic car and a classic boat you could find.
Head over to the Car & Classic Auction by clicking the link below!
Behind The Scenes – Live Draw of the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6
October 8, 2021
A bit of a change to our usual schedule, the live draw for the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6 was drawn during the day this time. A start time of 10 am saw many tuned in from home to find out if they were the lucky winner of this bright red bruiser.
The car itself was being valeted by Viper Auto Valet as we set up for the draw. All three of the latest competition cars were put into place for Charlotte and Freddie to guide the viewers through what to expect in the coming weeks.
As the random number generator span away. It was ticket 2343. After cross-checking the number against the entry lists (which are published on our website before each draw) it was found to be Jarlath Joyce who was now the new owner of this 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6.
Thank you to everyone who entered this amazing draw and if you didn’t win, we hope you have better luck next time on future cars from Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
Making Moves – Steering Teardown on the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4
October 8, 2021
Here at Bridge Classic Cars, our in-house restoration technician Mauro is hard at work continuing to teardown, inspect and catalogue the front end parts of the 1955 Aston Martin DB2.
The steering on any sportscar is what is known to give that feel we all know and love. And for that, it needs to be in perfect shape. So, it’s now the turn of the steering rack of the DB2. Mauro has carefully removed each component from the rack itself.
These will be inspected thoroughly before refurbishment begins.
Cover Up – Fitting the New Rear Cover to the 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 7, 2021
What do you do when you have the roof down on your 1960s sports car and all of the cubby hole it fits into is on display? You have a cover made. Thankfully, our in-house trim shop was on hand to get the Sunbeam sorted.
You may know by now but this is our next Bridge Classic Cars Competitions car. It’s a 1966 Sunbeam Alpine just like the one Sean Connery drove in the James Bond film, Dr No.
The cover was made by our trim expert Brian, who also headed up the installation with the help of our other trimmer Lydia. The cover is there to give a finishing touch to the cars convertible hood stowaway when the roof is down. Each piece was carefully offered up to the car to ensure the best fit and finish for this amazing classic.
All of this is in preparation for the install of the new convertible hood which we will have an update on very soon!
Opened Up – Our NCCSF 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition at the Lotus Training Centre
October 7, 2021
The Norwich City Community Support Foundation charity Lotus Elise was at the Lotus Training Centre today for the opening. It joined its other siblings, including the all-electric Evija hypercar, to be part of the day’s events.
The Elise is being drawn on October 31st live with all proceeds going to help the Norwich City Community Support Foundation with all of the amazing work they do with young people of different backgrounds and abilities get involved in sport.
You can still get tickets to help support this amazing cause by clicking the link below.
Enter now for the 2021 NCCSF Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition
Parts for Sale – Vauxhall 2.3 Litre Big Valve 4 Cylinder Engine
October 7, 2021
For sale from Bridge Classic Cars is this Vauxhall 2.3 Litre Slant Engine. This engine, also known as a Big Valve engine, comes with a host of associated parts as a collection.
The condition of the engine and the parts is unknown as this was part of a previous project but was not used. This is a desirable engine for many high-performance Vauxhalls.
The Year of the engine is unknown but does include a full exhaust system from the header to the backbox. Also included in the sale is a twin-carb manifold and spare set of headers. Perfect for anyone building a high-performance Vauxhall such as a Firenza or Chevette.
The asking price is £990 for the entire collection.
If you’re interested please get in touch!
Core Components – Teardown of the 1955 Aston Martin DB2 Front Axle
October 7, 2021
It’s crucial with a restoration to take note of what you take off the car. Our in-house restoration technician Mauro is fanatical about this. So, the job of tearing down the front axle of the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 that we have at Bridge Classic Cars naturally fell to him.
Bolt by bolt, piece by piece Mauro has gone through the entire assembly on the ’50s sportscar. Carefully and meticulously Mauro labelled and catalogued each piece ready for assessment and refurbishment.
This DB2 is having a full restoration in-house by our incredible teams. Keep a lookout for more updates on the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 on our News Page
And Breathe In – Assessing the Carburettors on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster
October 7, 2021
It’s crucial for any classic car to be able to breathe properly. Especially when it’s the V12 from our 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster.
The V12 has been completely rebuilt for this very special car and now it’s time to address the carburettors. Our in-house engine builders will begin by carefully inspecting the originals and begin to dismantle and check each and every component and seal.
The carburettors for this V12 will have a very important role to play in the dynamic of this bespoke E-Type. The performance from the V12 has been calibrated to reflect the unique nature of the 1970s super tourer. These carburettors maybe some of the first rebuilt in-house to become E10 compliant, a service we offer to all classic car owners.
Expect to see more on the rebuild of these carburettors on our projects page.
Falling into Place – Fitting the Headliner to a 1970 Dodge Charger
October 6, 2021
It’s been an absolute treat to have one of the most iconic muscle cars of all time in the trim shop of Bridge Classic Cars. This 1970 Dodge Charger. The 2nd generation Chargers are without a doubt, one of the best-looking muscle cars built.
This particular 1970 Charger is in with our expert in-house trim team to be fitted out with a brand new interior. First up, Kath began to fit the headliner to the Charger. Covering such an expanse in fabric can be daunting, but for the Bridge Classic team, it’s not a problem. Working through the car methodically allowed Kath to stretch and pull the headliner into shape and give it the best finish possible.
Each of the ribs was carefully moved into its position millimetre by millimetre to ensure it was level and square. These spars allow the fabric some element of give but also when they are correctly installed, gives the best finish with no ripples or waves.
Whilst installing the headliner, Kath did note a small area of corrosion on the shell by the back window. It had been treated and wasn’t structural. In any case, we always let our clients know and suggest a course of action. At this time, it will be underneath the headliner. As said, it’s not in a structural location, it has been treated and on inspection by our body shop team, it is perfectly fine for years to come.
Updates on the rest of the interior will be up very soon so keep an eye out on the Bridge Classic Cars blog.
In With the New – Recommissioning the Cooling System on the 1973 MGB Roadster
October 6, 2021
The 1973 MGB Roadster we currently have in at Bridge Classic Cars for work has been having its cooling system gone through.
Our in-house restoration technician Ady last time worked on removing the water pump and the old radiator from this iconic little sportscar. New parts were put on order and have now been fitted into the front of the bright red MG B.
A completely new water pump has been fitted to make sure that when it is eventually driven, the temperatures stay nice and safe. Working alongside the new water pump is the replacement radiator.
This was crucial in the cooling system as the old one had seen better days and on the advice of our in-house technician, a new one was fitted for peace of mind.
More will be coming up soon on the MGB Roadster so be sure to keep an eye on our News Page.
Closer Look – Investigating a Misfire on the 1971 Jaguar XJ6
October 6, 2021
The wealth of knowledge held in our workshop is incredible. Centuries almost of combined experience allow Bridge Classic Cars to look into a wide spectrum of issues on classic cars.
Take for instance this 1971 Jaguar XJ6. Recently it had its fuel tanks replaced with us but during the setup, our in-house restoration team noticed that it had a pretty bad misfire. This needed to be looked into more in-depth. Dave, one of our most experienced technicians, began to dive deeper into the straight-six.
Dave had noted that the HT leads and the coil was arching to the closest metal object. So, with that and his experience he elected to replace the leads and the coil as the first port of call. However, after startup, the misfire was still prominent. At that point, it was decided to perform a compression test. 5 out of the 6 cylinders were all within spec. However, 1 of them was suspiciously low. With the classic cars, it can be a myriad of things that can cause this.
Dave then pulled the rocker cover off of the intake side of the engine to gain access to the rockers and more importantly the valves. With the help of our in-house engine builder Ady, Dave checked each of the valves for the correct lash. Originally they would have been between 10-14 thousandths of an inch but on Ady’s guidance, he is happy to see them between 8-10 thousandths with a vehicle of this age and mileage. All of the valves however fell within those guidelines. Nothing was noticeably out of place.
With that, Dave then found the leads had begun to arch again. This time through a set of pliers and straight to the cylinder head, which was worrying. So, Dave is going to rebuild the distributor with new points and condenser along with a completely new set of HT leads again.
Expect to see more of the progress of diagnosing the misfire on the 1971 Jaguar XJ6 at Bridge Classic Cars very soon on the News Page.
Weather-Sealed – The Bespoke Hood Cover for the 1965 Amphicar
October 6, 2021
The 1965 Amphicar is already quite a unique and rare piece of automotive history. But, an original convertible hood cover? Slightly rare than hen’s teeth. However, after some research, we found a company in the States who make them!
We had one shipped to us here for our 1965 Amphicar which was installed by our in-house master trimmers. As you can see, it looks absolutely brilliant!
Down to the Bare Bones – Teardown on the 1956 Jensen 541
October 6, 2021
Here at Bridge Classic Cars, we’ve built a reputation for being one of the leaders in the restoration of the Jensen 541 family. The latest of these that is just beginning its journey is this 1956 Jensen 541.
This car came to us as a semi barn-find. After pulling it into the workshop, our in-house restoration technician Scott began to separate all the associate parts that were left inside the shell. This is an important part of any ground-up restoration as it gives you a clear view of what is going to be needed and its availability.
With the body and chassis of the Jensen, Scott has been going through to assess what parts can be refurbished and what will need to have replacements made. Carefully Scott has been removing, cataloguing and storing the various fixings and components which can be fully inspected at a later date by our in-house restoration teams.
Expect to see more about the restoration of this 1956 Jensen 541 on our Blog very soon.
Getting to the Root of the Issue – Rust Assessment on the 1984 Jaguar XJ Bonnet.
October 5, 2021
The bonnet on this 1984 Jaguar XJ is currently in with the Bridge Classic Cars paint and body teams to look into a rust issue on both the bonnet and the boot.
First off, the depth that the rust extends to needs to be assessed by the teams and a plan made. Currently, our expert painter Matt believes a lot of it can be cleaned up but some parts may need more attention.
Look out for more updates on the XJ on our news page very soon!
Out and About – VW Type 2 Campervan
October 5, 2021
Whilst out on the original photo shoot for our 1965 Amphicar, our Marketing manager Freddie snapped this photo.
It’s a stunning VW Type 2 Camper. There’s something just so charming about these vans that are beloved by young and old that crosses all divides. This one is finished really nicely and obviously is loved by its owner.
Ground Up – Reupholstering the Rear Seat Doors on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster
October 5, 2021
The Bridge Classic Cars in-house trim team have worked their magic yet again. This time recovering the rear seat doors on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster.
Kath, one of the trim experts, carefully deconstructed the original panels not only to find out how they were originally made but to try and save as much of the original piece if possible. Kath managed to even save the original hardware and hinges for the piece.
After refinishing the wooden cores of the panels, Kath could then start to get the new coverings fit just right for such a hand-made sportscar. After this, it was time to put the body-coloured piping onto the new material.
After the pieces had been perfectly readied to go into the car it was time to get the original hardware Kath had removed looking just as good. Kath carefully prepped each piece for a new coat of paint to go along with the rest of the panel in terms of the finish and quality.
Expect to see more of this incredible, one-off E Type on our News Page very soon.
Home From Its Travels – The 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition Back at Bentwaters
October 5, 2021
The charity Lotus Elise has been out doing its promotional tour recently. This time it had been at the Royal Norwich Golf Course to raise awareness for the Norwich City Community Support Foundation and the incredibly important work they do out in the community.
This stunning example of the final run of the fabled sports car is still up for grabs on our competition site! All of the proceeds will be going straight to NCCSF to help them support young people in the community get into sport.
Just click here and buy your ticket!
Awoken From its Slumber – Collecting the 1956 Jensen 541
October 4, 2021
That’s our 1956 Jensen 541 safely in our enclosed transporter and on its way back to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in Pettistree.
It had been sat for quite a while awaiting its place in line for restoration. Our transport team carefully positioned the enclosed trailer up to the front of the sleeping sportscar. Inch by inch the car was tenderly pulled from the storage unit to keep it and the building around it safe.
With the car and all other parts securely stored and the area cleaned up, it was on its way to the workshop to begin teardown in preparation for its full restoration.
Building Update – Roof is on the Bridge Classic Cars Extension
October 4, 2021
The new extension to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop finally has its roof on!
The last bits of the structure has been put in place for the roofers to come and install the panels which make up the expansive roof of our new workshop extension. Soon, the brickwork will start and then it can be clad.
We’ll be in the new building before you know it!
On Her Majestys Service – Behind the Scenes Shooting the 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 4, 2021
The clouds grew ominous in the late September sky. Rain threatened to fall at any moment on the shoot. The car had only been in our possession a matter of minutes before it was whisked off the back of our enclosed Transporter and off to the shoot location. There was no time to spare.
The timeframe was tight. Shoot and edit the photos and videos for the latest Bridge Classic Cars Competitions car before the release of the latest James Bond 007 film, No Time to Die. Why? Because the Sunbeam Alpine was the first bond car. It appeared in Dr No with Sean Connery behind the wheel as the worlds most famous secret agent.
This particular Alpine had been dry stored for over 20 years before its previous owner had it completely rebuilt. A folder containing photographs of the rebuild came with the car stripped all the way back to bare metal and then worked on from the ground up. This car has been lovingly used by its previous owner, who is a true classic car enthusiast, for several years whilst also ensuring it is kept in the best condition possible for an in-use classic. That also includes the engine…
Without hesitation, the 1725cc 4-cylinder fired into life. The previous owner spent countless hours and no expense was spared getting the engine to perform and run perfectly. This particular engine has less than 1000 miles on it since being completely rebuilt to better than new condition. Along with the engine, this Sunbeam Alpine is fitted with the much-needed overdrive gearbox. Making it more useable as a classic in today’s modern world for its next lucky owner.
All of this was evident as we pulled away from the hanger. It revved out beautifully towards the lowering sun on the horizon. For take after take, the Sunbeam delivered faultlessly over and over again with Charlotte at the helm. As the temperature dropped along with the light, the Sunbeam still kept going. Its near-perfect interior offering no warmth with the roof off but still the best seat in the house when it came to a late summer evening jaunt.
It buzzed up and down the track without so much as a hesitation or stumble. The brakes were faultless, as proved when a herd of deer emerged from the undergrowth during a run. Not a problem for the Alpine, it gracefully and quickly came to a dead-straight stop.
With the light waning from under the wooded horizon, it was time to head back to the hanger.
Handed Down – 1959 MGA Twin Cam
October 4, 2021
There are certain things that get handed down through the generations. Something sentimental that have a certain connection to a person or place. This is true with his fabulous 1959 MGA Twin Cam that we currently have at Bridge Classic Cars for storage.
We are looking after the car for a customer at our Bentwaters storage facility for a while. This car was originally owned by the customer’s father who at one time was the manager of the Chevron racing team. A nice connection between Bridge Classic Cars and Chevron was the recent 1972 Chevron B20 Formula 2 car we auctioned on Collecting Cars.
This beautiful pale blue Twin Cam car has been rebuilt and restored from the ground up. It also appears to have had somewhat of competition history, with several newspaper cuttings from club races. The current owner has sent over some wonderful images of the recommission that was undertaken on the car to show the extent of what has been completed on the car.
Here they are in the gallery below:
Held in Place – Removing the Radiator of the 1973 MG B Roadster
October 4, 2021
Work is continuing on the 1973 MG B Roadster that is in at Bridge Classic Cars to be recommissioned. This time, our in-house restoration technicians are looking into the cooling system. A crucial part of any classic.
The reason we needed to remove the radiator was to gain access to the water pump. This was due for replacement as Ady had noticed it begin to weep. Whilst the radiator is out, it allows our in-house team to inspect and assess the radiator itself to see if it needs any repairs or is in need of replacement.
Keep a lookout on our news page for any updates on the MG B Roadster.
Under & Over – Stripping Down the Rear Axle of the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4
October 4, 2021
Work has begun at Bridge Classic Cars on stripping down and cataloguing the rear axle components for the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 we have in with us for full restoration.
Our in-house restoration technicians carefully removed the rear axle from the car in order to have it in a safe and accessible place to begin the teardown. Mauro carefully removed each component, taking care as to not damage any original pieces of the rear assembly.
The rear end will be completely rebuilt in preparation for the rest of the components coming back from refurbishment.
This Just In – 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 1, 2021
Hopefully, you will have all seen the news by now but if not, Bridge Classic Cars have got a fantastic 1966 Sunbeam Alpine in with us in our workshop. Yes, the same as Sean Connery drove in the James Bond film Dr No. This is going to be a competition car which one lucky winner will be drawn.
This honest and really rather lovely 60s sports car also has an incredibly rare hardtop! so no matter the weather it can be enjoyed by its future owner. At Bridge Classic Cars, our in-house teams will assess the car soon to come up with a plan to get the Sunbeam to a stage where it can be instantly used and enjoyed.
Keep checking the blog for more updates on this fantastic car.
New Arrival – 1966 Sunbeam Alpine
October 1, 2021
This glorious little Sunbeam is on its way into our workshop at Bridge Classic Cars very soon!
On Tour – Previous Bridge Classic Cars Projects on the Road.
October 1, 2021
First up on tour is the amazing 1969 Ford Escort Twin Cam that was cruising around Ireland on holiday with its owner. We worked on this very car earlier this year and it’s amazing to see it being used and enjoyed. Safe travels!
Next on the road is the 1960 Jensen 541S ”Prototype” which was taking part in Petit Tour in Belgium. This Jensen was in with us in 2017 and 2019 for a full restoration but it’s amazing to see it out and being enjoyed by its owner.
