Lot details Registration No: UN-REG Chassis No: E2SAL745R Mot Expiry: Oct 2006
Better known for his work on the fearsome 1930s Auto Union Grand Prix cars, Austrian engineer Robert Eberan von Eberhorst was also responsible for designing the Jowett Jupiter sports car chassis. Unveiled to the public at the October 1949 London Motor Show, this cruciform-braced tubular side-member platform (complete with spaceframe-esque 'bridge' over the rear suspension) caused quite a stir. Featuring independent torsion-bar front suspension, a Panhard rod located 'live' back axle and rack and pinion steering, its competition potential was underlined in June the following year when a prototype Jupiter won its class at Le Mans (a feat that the model would repeat in both 1951 and 1952). Notching up class victories in the prestigious RAC TT and Monte Carlo Rally events too, the Jupiter was powered by a 1486cc flat-four cylinder OHV engine mated to four-speed manual transmission. Styled in-house by Reg Korner, its swooping aluminium bodywork was unusual in having wind-up windows (a real luxury for a 1950s British sports car). Reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 14.2 seconds and 88mph, Jowett's financial woes saw Jupiter production curtailed after just four years and approximately 900 cars.
Finished in maroon metallic with beige upholstery, this particular example was reputedly "shipped new to San Diego" and supplied via "Angel Motors of Pasadena". Returning to the UK in 1990, it was subsequently treated to a "lengthy rebuild with right-hand drive conversion". Still unfinished upon entering the current ownership early last year, further fettling saw it pass an MOT test. While cosmetically, its "restored bodywork" and "very good paintwork" were enhanced by "an expensive re-trim including new hood". Although, not presently UK registered, we understand that the relevant import duties have been paid. A well-travelled survivor that no doubt benefited from its time on the West Coast of America, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until October 2006.
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