Ashley Laminates 1172 Classic Cars for Sale

History of Ashley Laminates 1172

Ashley Laminates, a British specialist in fibreglass car bodies and kits during the 1950s and 1960s, developed the 1172 series as an accessible way for enthusiasts to build or upgrade their sports cars. The name '1172' refers to the 1172cc Ford sidevalve engine, which was widely used as a base for Ashley’s lightweight sports cars. The company allowed small manufacturers and private builders to create custom vehicles using proprietary components, often leading to unique cars that combined Ashley’s aerodynamic bodywork with the mechanical reliability of mass-produced Ford parts.

Model History

The 1172 series emerged at a time when the British car kit market flourished, driven by a demand for affordable yet customisable sports cars. Predecessors included earlier Ashley kit models adapted to different chassis, while the 1172 was specifically tailored to Ford's Popular and Anglia underpinnings. Later, as commercial interest in kit cars declined, production numbers for these units dropped, making surviving models especially hard to find today.

Highlights of Ashley Laminates 1172

A striking aspect of the Ashley Laminates 1172 is its hand-laid fibreglass body—a feature that set it apart from many other period kits. The 1172’s design encouraged amateur motorsport participation, and many cars were built as specials for hill climbs and club racing. Among cars listed on the market, the 1172 models represent only a small fraction of Ashley Laminates’ total classic offerings, reflecting their rarity and specialist appeal.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no factory-sanctioned special editions of the Ashley Laminates 1172, but many cars were supplied as rolling chassis or bare bodies, resulting in unique one-off configurations. Some vehicles feature custom coachwork details or period racing upgrades, increasing their collectibility for motorsport history enthusiasts.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Ford 1172cc sidevalve engine, standard in these models, is known for its simplicity and robustness, making it a popular platform for tuning among enthusiasts. Performance can vary significantly depending on the state of tune and level of customisation, with some examples running uprated carburettors, sports exhausts, and lighter driveshafts. Handling characteristics reflect the lightweight construction and low centre of gravity, while the original suspension components are basic and may require upgrades for spirited driving. The most commonly encountered versions utilise the Ford Anglia 100E chassis and drivetrain, often paired with various levels of period tuning kits.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Ashley Laminates 1172 bodies are defined by their simple, functional curves, optimised for lightweight construction. Interior fit and finish depended mainly on the builder, but most cars feature minimalistic cockpits with basic instrumentation and bespoke trim choices. The lack of luxury features exemplifies the sports-special ethos of the period. Popular accessories include period racing screens, quick-release steering wheels, and special paint finishes applied by original owners. Each car is, in essence, a unique statement.

Other Relevant Features

Due to the kit nature of Ashley Laminates vehicles, buyers will encounter significant variation in build quality, specification, and period modifications. Documentation, provenance, and originality are crucial for collectors, as few examples remain unchanged from their original kit configuration.

Summary

The Ashley Laminates 1172 stands as a niche offering in the historic British sports car landscape. Recognisable for its fibreglass construction and Ford mechanicals, it appeals to those who admire individuality, mechanical know-how, and British kit-car tradition. Its rarity on the market is matched by the diversity of surviving examples, making every Ashley 1172 a piece of rolling British engineering history.