1914 GN Cyclecar Cyclecar

Derived from its founders H.R. Godfrey and Archibald Frazer-Nash, G.N. would be based in Hendon in North London from its founding in 1910 until 1925. Throughout that period the company would become known for the production of cyclecars. Though small and lightweight, a number of examples would go on to become giants within the hill climbing arena.

After starting out building examples in the stables of the Frazer Nash family, Godfrey and Frazer-Nash would become established in their workshop in Hendon in 1911. Prior to the outbreak of World War I, the company would build some 200 examples of their cyclecar.

Cheap and rather exciting, a drive in a cyclecar of the era was anything but a laid-back uneventful excursion. Requiring the driver to hand-pump oil into the crankcase and sitting a long way behind a long steering column, a trip in a cyclecar was certainly a very hands-on and unconventional experience. Nonetheless, their cheap cost and good fun made them an intriguing proposition. Added to cyclecar that it was also incredibly light and one had, in an instant, a competitive car in which to go racing. GN's 'specials', like the Spider, would go on to great fame. In fact, a Spider would go on to hold the outright record at Shelsley Walsh more than a few times.

This particular example would be produced just prior to the outbreak of the First World War. Boasting a 10hp 1100 cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, it would be found by John Moir in Boston, Massachusetts in the home of a British dealer.

Despite newer paint and upholstery, the Cyclecar remains highly original, including its single large brass headlight, multi-bell horn, and even an umbrella holder.

Given its early link to HRG and Frazer Nash, and the fact of its highly original state, the 1914 G.N. Cyclecar would draw estimates prior to the 2014 RM Auctions Hershey event ranging from between $40,000 and $60,000. However, spirited bidding would result in a final sale price of a remarkable $110,000 making it one valuable cyclecar.

By Jeremy McMullen