FN 1300 classic cars for sale

History of the FN 1300

FN's 1300 replaced the preceding Type 1250 and quickly became a cornerstone of the brand's automotive line-up in Belgium. Launched in several versions designated 'A', 'B', and 'C', all maintained the same mechanical fundamentals: a robust four-cylinder 1327 cm³ engine with side camshaft and overhead valves. The variations focused on wheelbase lengths and equipment trim, reflecting the era's demand for flexibility and comfort. The FN 1300 series also introduced features such as full four-wheel brakes and wider tracks in certain models, marking technological progress in terms of safety and handling in everyday motoring.

Model History of the FN 1300

The evolution of the FN 1300 series demonstrates FN's adaptability in the interwar market. After the Type 1250, the 1300 came to market in multiple forms—'A', 'B', and 'C'—with consistent engineering but targeted body styles and equipment levels. The range expanded with the 1300D, featuring a four-speed gearbox, and the 1300E, which introduced wider axles. The sporting variant, the 1300Sp, was honed for motorsport and spirited road use. These developments underscore FN’s ongoing innovation during the model's production life.

Highlights of the FN 1300

A core strength of the FN 1300 lies in the brand’s use of a single, efficient powerplant across all variants, an approach that helped streamline maintenance and parts logistics. All models used a 1327 cm³ side-camshaft, overhead-valve four-cylinder that delivered 15 hp (11 kW), matched with modern-for-its-time four-wheel brakes. Sporting wide 'Balloon' tyres from the factory gave these vehicles improved ride comfort and road holding compared to their contemporaries. The 1300D’s four-speed gearbox and the 1300E’s widened track provided targeted enhancements for performance and stability.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The FN 1300Sp stands out as the series' dedicated model for motorsport and sporty driving, featuring specific adaptations for competition. Additionally, the 1300D (with its four-speed transmission) and the 1300E (wider axles) represent the brand's evolutionary approach to meeting different driving demands.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weak spots are documented for the FN 1300 series based on current database entries. As with any early 20th-century vehicle, buyers should inspect the state of mechanical assemblies, especially the braking system, transmission, and originality of the rare parts such as the 'Balloon' tyres and early four-wheel brake assemblies.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The FN 1300’s 1327 cm³ engine, generating 15 hp, provided adequate power for its class and period, making it well-suited for post-World War I touring. The standard fitment of four-wheel brakes, unusual for the time, offered improved stopping capability, a genuine safety advantage. The wide 'Balloon' tyres further enhanced road holding and comfort, while the availability of a four-speed gearbox (1300D) allowed later versions a broader powerband and better cruising capability. - FN 1300D: Four-speed gearbox for better drivability and performance balance.

• FN 1300E: Wider axles for increased track width and handling stability.
• FN 1300Sp: Tailored features for competition and sporty driving, rare among contemporaries.

Interior, Comfort, Exeterior and Design

The FN 1300 was offered in varying equipment grades, reflecting differences in comfort and trim but always with a focus on robust engineering. The use of wider tyres set the FN 1300 apart visually and functionally, enhancing both the aesthetic stance and ride quality. The widened track of the 1300E and detail differences between versions appeal to connoisseurs interested in period-correct originality. Accessories and bespoke trim options were available depending on version and year.

Other Relevant Features

The model family’s unified engine design greatly simplifies sourcing spare parts and mechanical repairs. The broad spectrum of available variants means collectors and restorers can target their preferred mix of sportiness, comfort, and mechanical layout within the same primary chassis architecture.

Summary

The FN 1300 series embodies Belgian automotive engineering from the late 1920s and early 1930s, presenting technical consistency across its versions, advanced features for its day such as four-wheel brakes, and a legacy of robust reliability. Whether for daily driving, historical rallies, or collection purposes, the range of variants within the 1300 series offers something to suit many classic motoring enthusiasts. The uniform share of listings and demand on our market highlights the central relevance of the 1300 in the historical FN lineup.