Kieft 1100 CC classic cars for sale

History and Development of the Kieft 1100 CC

Kieft entered the sports car scene with a bold move in 1954: Cyril Kieft was the first to install the Coventry Climax FWA engine—originally a lightweight, overhead-cam alloy engine for fire pumps—in a sports vehicle. This innovation pre-dated the engine’s more famous sporting applications by Lotus in the Eleven and Elite. The Kieft 1100 CC combined this advanced engine with glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP) bodywork and a tubular frame chassis, emphasising lightweight engineering and a strong racing orientation. The adoption of independent suspension—double wishbones with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers at the front, and an initially transverse leaf spring at the rear—further highlighted its competitiveness and contemporary design ethos.

Model History of the Kieft 1100 CC

Produced in only six examples, the Kieft 1100 CC remains a highly specialised outlier in the landscape of 1950s sports cars. Its immediate predecessors were Kieft’s earlier racing cars, but the 1100 CC set a new standard with GRP construction and adoption of the Climax FWA. While Lotus later popularised this engine configuration in its own models, the Kieft was ahead of its time regarding both design and mechanical layout. There is no direct successor, as Kieft's focus shifted and the company never developed the model further for significant series production.

Key Features and Database Insights for the Kieft 1100 CC

Key features of the Kieft 1100 CC emphasize its fierce dedication to motorsport: an all-alloy, overhead-cam Coventry Climax FWA engine with two Weber 40 DCOE carburettors; a very low kerb weight of approximately 550 kg, contributing to excellent acceleration and a top speed near 180 km/h; and an advanced independent suspension setup. The model’s rare GRP bodywork and tubular steel chassis paved the way for lightweight British racing cars. The vehicle's FIA Historic Vehicle Passport, either issued or renewable, underscores its ongoing relevance for historic motorsport events.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Given the entire production run comprised only six examples, every Kieft 1100 CC is by definition a collector’s item. No special editions were officially released, but individual cars may feature unique details or period modifications, particularly concerning rear suspension setup or original FIA documentation.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to limited production, specific weak spots must be identified on a case-by-case basis. Owners should scrutinise the tubular chassis for signs of corrosion or stress fractures, particularly around suspension mounting points. GRP bodywork, while lighter than metal, can be vulnerable to delamination and cracking, especially in areas subject to flex or impact. Tracking down original engine and drivetrain components can present challenges, given the model's rarity and the bespoke nature of many parts.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Kieft 1100 CC’s performance is defined by its minimal mass, rev-happy Climax engine, and race-derived suspension geometry. Weighing only 550 kg, the car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in around 7 seconds and reach 180 km/h—outstanding figures for a car of its day. The non-synchronised first gear in the 4-speed gearbox requires careful handling. With its double wishbone front and independent rear suspension, the Kieft offers precise, responsive handling—ideally suited for historic motor racing and hillclimbs. - Kieft 1100 CC (all variants), as all six feature the Climax FWA engine, GRP bodywork, and competitive chassis setup.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The minimalist cockpit of the Kieft 1100 CC prioritises driver focus and weight reduction—expect only essential instrumentation and little in the way of padding or trim. Externally, the use of GRP enabled complex shapes and flowing lines, a significant innovation at the time. Aluminium components and a tubular steel frame complete the construction. The car's design features no standard luxury features or factory accessories; everything has a purpose for racing lightness and agility. Units may differ in minor body details or colour, reflecting the bespoke nature of ultra-low-volume production.

Other Noteworthy Details

Each car is likely to come with documentation relevant to historic racing, such as a FIA vehicle passport, which enhances eligibility for vintage motorsport competition. Period-correct modifications—especially rear suspension conversions from leaf to coil springs—may affect collectability and driving characteristics. Locating period parts will require expert support and networking within the historic racing community.

Summary

The Kieft 1100 CC exists in extremely limited numbers with just six examples ever built. It introduced British racing innovations, including the first use of the Coventry Climax FWA engine in a sports car, advanced glass fibre bodywork, and a race-ready chassis. Every surviving example represents a snapshot of 1950s technical ingenuity. Prospective buyers must be prepared for an owner's experience defined by rarity, motorsport authenticity, and the practical realities of caring for an historic bespoke competition car.