THE NEW 2-LITRE FRAZER-NASH-B.M.W.

At Isleworth this month we were introduced to the very latest Frazer-NashB.M.W., which is best described as the “big 2-litre” model. Its six-cylinder, push-rod o.h.v. engine follows the trend of the older if and 2-litre units and has the same high quality external appearance, but the capacity is actually 1,971 c.c., while a single, silenced down

draught carburetter is used. With a moderate compression ratio 50 b.h.p. is developed low down the speed range, so that this output may be maintained under normal driving conditions without the least anxiety—a very different thing from getting the same horse-power at peak-revs, on the indirect ratios, or when flat-out on the Track or merely when running light, momentarily, on the bench. Consequently, although a ma:drnum speed beyond 75-80 m.p.h. is not claimed, this Frazer-Nash-I3.M.W. can be cruised up to this pace wherever conditions permit without sacrifice of economy or tune, and, as one has come to expect of all models of the marque, at such speeds engine and chassis are effortless and the coachwork unprotesting. The new engine has, in fact, been designed to be literally ” unburstable.” The new model, known as the Type 326, follows the general lines of the other models, though the independent front suspension details differ, rear suspension ‘s by long torsion bars, the brake actuation is Lockheed hydraulic, and larger Dunlop low-pressure covers grace the special semi-disc, artillery wheels. The gearbox is especially interesting, having slightly higher ratios, synchro-rnesh for top and third, and an automatic free-wheel operating on bottom and second, rendering those changes entirely dutchless. New too, is the special pull-up handbrake, while the new and extremely attractive radiator grille, though introduced on the Type 326, is now actually available for the other models. We have had brief experience of the two-door, five-seater, close-coupled cabriolet, which externally looks a very sleek, modern and truly imposing motor-car of considerable size, but which is actually of very modest dimensions and, of course,’‘ taxed at L12 15s. The interior appointments are fully in keeping with the quality of the chassis. Upholstery is in dull-surfaced leather, the front seat squabs are adjustable and the seat cushions of special formation to provide maximum comfort for all occupants. The very solid doors have extensive, elastic-topped pockets, and very big, smoothly-winding windows. The rear seat passengers are given generous leg-room without the use of wells, the head folds neatly, there is extensive luggage space, and the rear seat has an unconventional, adjustable sponge-rubber central rest. Pull-out ash-trays, in the typical white ivory finish, are fitted in the rear seat arm-rests and the direction indicators are now in-built and selfcancelling. Entry and exit is exceptionally easy, narrow running boards being used, well protected;by the big wings from road-dirt. Tools, tyre-purnp and the special chassis-frame-jack sit on. a shelf beneath the bonnet. The botmet, doors, windows, steering, ignition, spare wheel, fuel filler and luggage container can all he locked. One-shot chassis lubrication

and easy clean oil filter feature on this as on the other models. The cabriolet costs L575, or £625 in four-door form, and a four-door saloon is available at L495, or L475 with cloth upholstery.

The un.supercharged sports two-seater Type 326-50, which did so well in the last T.T., and which created quite a sensation on Easter Monday by running in Mountain and outer-circuit Brooklands races with lamps, hood, wings and running boards in place and screen erect (it was second in the latter race) should show a truly astonishing performance when roadtested. It is said to lap Brooklands at 105 m.p.h. and should worry every blown sports model extant, with the possible exception of the ” Shelsley ” FrazerNash. Quite a lot of these models are now in private owners’ hands. The price is £695. Another Isleworth innovation is the latest Frazer-Nash, which follows traditional ‘Nash practice, including the famous chain transmission, and sells at the ” interesting” price of )6395, with comprehensive equipment.