Continuation cars are all the rage these days, and considering how characterless many modern cars are, we can see why. Better than simply looking at old photographs to reminisce, why not have a new-old Aston Martin or Jaguar built to the exact same specifications as they were in period? BRM (British Racing Motors) will be reviving one of its iconic designs in the form of three new Type 15 V16 Grand Prix cars.
With the help of classic car restoration firm Hall and Hall, BRM are set to build its first new cars in 50 years. Well, we say ‘new’ but the design of these Type 15s actually stems from the 1950s, with each car being built exactly as the originals were. Just one original car survives today, but combined with 20,000 drawings and 5,000 blueprints, the engineering team are confident in their authenticity. Each of the three cars will use an original chassis number spared in period.
These BRM Type 15s will be built exactly as they were, meaning no modernisations for any reason. Fresh supercharged 1.5-litre V16 engines will be created, each possessing 591bhp and a 12,000rpm redline. The five-speed gearbox will also be recreated to its exacting design.
As mentioned, just three examples will be built for an undisclosed sum, but the first is already spoken for. John Owen, son of Sir Alfred Owen who used to run BRM, fully intends to use his V16 recreation. He said: “In a selfish way, I have always dreamed of hearing that sound again but now I’d also love to share that sensation with others. To hear the V16 screaming at full tilt for the first time is something special – something you never forget.”
Joining the likes of Pampas Bull and Fangio in being a pilot of a BRM Type 15 will be two others, however, the company is being rather strict as to who will own them. Prospective owners can submit an application, but BRM’s aim is to find owners that will run the car regularly and not simply keep it in a garage as an investment.
Pricing has not been made publicly available, but considering the engineering and craftsman ship required to reproduce this Grand Prix leviathan, it won’t be cheap.
Keyword: BRM V16 Grand Prix cars to be reborn