1956 HRG 1500 Roadster

The HRG had a successful European racing career with impressive results at venues such as Le Mans, Monte Carlo, and Coupe des Alpes, as well as in the U.S. at Bridgehampton, Palm Beach, Watkins Glen, and others. Over the company's 22 years of production, just 241 examples were built.

This particular example was one of the last of the HRG 1500s to leave the factory, shipped in July of 1956. Just 12 examples were built. This example was ordered by Northern Hemisphere importer Jack Wherry. It languished at the works while the customer, a Mr. Olson, took his time figuring out if he wanted left- or right-hand drive. He settled on right-hand drive, and by that time, two more cars had been completed and shipped.

The previous owner of this car fitted it with a 1798cc BMW engine, however, the original overhead-cam Singer engine is still with the vehicle.

The current caretaker completed a two-year restoration. It has large high-temperature magnesium hydraulic brake cylinders, correct Brooklands aero screens, 36-inch competition safety belts, 16-inch wire wheels, and a nickel-plated rear bumper. The interior features burgundy leather, Wilton wool carpeting, Jaeger instruments, and Scottish Dalvey rally timing equipment. The bonnet has its original split-yoke strap, crafted of Highland Scottish leather. There is an eight-piece spanner tool wrap, knock-off wheel hammer, Castrol oiler, and spare spark plugs set.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2016