1950 | Lea-Francis 2,5 Litre

This very unique Coventry built Lea-Francis car, used a high torque 2.5 litre “Big Four” engine producing 108bhp at 4000rpm and a top speed of over 90MPH. However, as the cost of producing these high performance cars continued to rise, production finally came to a halt in late 1953 after only 78 cars had been produced.

However, the sheer quality of these very exclusive sports cars is reflected in the number that still exist today – over 50%, a better survival rate than any other car of the period.

This example, chassis number 5160, initially served as a test/demonstration car for the Lea-Francis Works.

In 1953 the car was prepared for the Mille Miglia, but for unknown reasons was withdrawn, completely recommissioned, repainted in Old English White and sold privately.

A full owner history of the car can be found in the 2.5 Litre Sports register and the car comes with an extensive history file including some very early invoices.

The car benefits from a full body-off restoration carried out between 2011 and 2015, after which the car was only driven very sparingly (approx. 1500 miles). This restoration, whilst aimed at keeping the car as original as possible, included some useful improvements such as an alternator (in original alternator housing) and a more efficient radiator core.

In 2020 the car underwent a further extensive engine-out recommissioning (including a full rewiring, brake, clutch/gearbox and suspension service) and is now 100% roadworthy again.

Like all 2.5 Litre L-Fs, this car accelerates and drives surprisingly quickly, reaching a top speed of 140 km/h, yet is very comfortable and suitable for long journeys, and can easily keep up with modern traffic.