Atalanta classic cars for sale

Introduction and History of Atalanta

Atalanta was established in 1937 in Middlesex and immediately stood out as one of the most advanced British automotive brands of its era. Only 22 cars were produced within its brief two-year production window before operations halted in 1939 due to the war. Despite the short lifespan, Atalanta quickly gained a reputation for technical ingenuity, offering both a four-cylinder engine and, in its second year, a V12 powertrain. The company’s participation in the 1938 24 Hours of Le Mans with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder model solidified its place in motorsport heritage. After the factory’s closure, Atalanta focused on pump equipment before fading into obscurity—only to be revived in 2011 by Martyn Corfield. Modern Atalanta vehicles respect the original roots while embracing technological progress.

Model History

Atalanta’s original output included models with both four-cylinder and V12 engines, with design evolution notable within its two years of existence. The V12 marked a significant step forward and underscored the brand’s ambition in engineering. The manufacturer code covers the Atalanta V-12, a name that has become synonymous with the marque. In 2011, the brand was resurrected, introducing a new version with a specially developed 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The limited production continues the tradition of bespoke British craftsmanship, now with modern underpinnings but unmistakably anchored in classic Atalanta DNA.

Highlights of Atalanta

Every Atalanta is crafted with individual components, avoiding the use of mass-produced parts from other manufacturers. Modern versions feature a unique blend of classic British sports car aesthetics and current engineering standards, exemplified by a hand-built aluminium chassis and bodywork. The driving experience remains purist, with manual transmission and tailored suspension. Due to the extremely limited number of vehicles made—both historic and contemporary—ownership is exceptionally exclusive, with demand for the marque remaining tightly focused among enthusiasts.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Atalanta Bluebird, introduced in 2017, commemorates the 50th anniversary of Donald Campbell's passing. Based on the Atalanta Sports two-seater, it features unique equipment and finishes exclusive to this special edition, making it a focal point of modern Atalanta production for collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No common weak spots are documented for Atalanta vehicles. However, given their ultra-low volumes and bespoke construction, maintenance requires familiarity with hand-built British specialists, and parts are custom-fabricated, often necessitating collaboration with marque experts for any restoration or service intervention.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Original Atalanta models offered four-cylinder and V12 engines, with competitive sporting performance hallmarking their legacy, as seen at Le Mans in 1938. Modern Atalantas utilize a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine rated at 214 hp, mated to a five-speed manual Borg Warner gearbox. The fully bespoke suspension and lightweight aluminium chassis ensure direct feedback and authentic roadster handling, differentiating Atalanta from mass-produced retro-styled vehicles. - Atalanta V-12: Original pre-war model, limited production run.

• Atalanta Sports (revived): Modern reinterpretation with 2.5-litre engine, all bespoke.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Modern Atalanta cars blend 1930s sports car design with contemporary craftsmanship. Each interior is personally finished with period-correct materials—leather, wood, and bespoke instruments—while exterior lines follow the flowing contours of the pre-war models. Special orders and rare paint finishes are available. Equipment and accessories are unique to each car, reaffirming the brand’s focus on individuality and traditional English coachbuilding artistry.

Other Information

Atalanta draws its name from a heroine in Greek mythology, symbolising speed and skill, which is mirrored in the marque’s philosophy and design. The company’s modern revival pays homage to both the technical advances of its founding years and the exclusivity desired by today’s collectors.

Summary

Atalanta occupies a distinct niche among classic British marques: extremely rare, technologically progressive for its time, and perpetuated in the modern era through a dedicated revival. Each car—be it original or contemporary—is individually hand-built, echoing the hallmark features of pre-war British sports cars while integrating modern enhancements. The Atalanta, whether vintage or revived, represents exclusivity, technical charisma, and a bespoke motoring experience for knowledgeable enthusiasts.