Teal Type 35 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Teal Type 35

The story of the Teal Type 35 begins in the early 1980s, when debate regarding the 'Worsley Bugatti' led to the founding of Trafford Engineering Automotive Limited—abbreviated TEAL. This British firm, emerging from the vision of Alan Hunter, Ian Foster (a Daimler chassis designer), and Tony Rogers, set out to bring faithful Bugatti Type 35 recreations to life. TEAL's early cars used US-sourced fibreglass bodies married to bespoke chassis accommodating more accessible front engines. When Bob Jones assumed leadership from Ian Foster in 1986, with chassis design support from Peter Farrell, aluminium bodywork and period-correct construction details elevated the project. By October 1986, the first all-aluminium Teal Type 35 was unveiled, meeting acclaim and driving healthy early sales. Production continued until 1998, with Teal additionally expanding into creative reinterpretations of Bugatti Types 43, 44, 52, and 59.

Model History

The Type 35 series forms the backbone of Teal's output, deeply inspired by the original Bugatti racing models of the 1920s. While rooted in a homage, Teal's engineering updates—such as adaptation for modern engines and improvements in chassis design over time—separate these vehicles from simple kit-car status. Various chassis evolutions, originally built on custom and VW-based frames, reflect a commitment to driveability and individualisation. The series broadened over time to offer different Bugatti-inspired forms, but the Type 35 tribute remained at the heart of Teal's identity until the brand ceased production in 1998.

Highlights of the Teal Type 35

Every Teal Type 35 combines historical aesthetics with functional upgrades: handmade aluminium bodywork, brass and stainless steel accents, and a distinctive Bugatti Racing Blue finish. Interior details include period-style leather bucket seats, a brushed steel dash, and wood-metal steering—underscoring the commitment to authenticity. Mechanical dependability comes from widely-available powerplants, usually the robust 1800cc MGB engine, married to a steel chassis and marine-grade plywood floor for a unique blend of durability and heritage.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Although the Type 35 forms the core, Teal also produced recreations inspired by Bugatti Types 43, 44, 52, and 59. Each variant showcased unique bodywork and, occasionally, bespoke mechanical configurations. Early fibreglass-bodied models and subsequent aluminium-only builds differ substantially in authenticity and collectibility, with aluminium versions generally favoured by purists.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The majority of Teal Type 35 vehicles rely on the durable 1800cc MGB engine, paired with a manual gearbox—providing straightforward, dependable power delivery reminiscent of classic British roadsters. The custom chassis, sometimes based on VW components, allows for versatile road manners, while the lightweight aluminium body ensures spirited response. Handling benefits from the robust steel underpinnings and the car’s balanced layout, combining classic form with accessible day-to-day reliability. Popular examples combine the MGB engine with the all-aluminium body, appreciated among enthusiasts for both authenticity and ease of upkeep.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Teal Type 35 cars showcase a distinctive visual blueprint: flowing fenders, louvred bonnets, and a finish most often in Bugatti Racing Blue. The interiors are strictly period-evocative: leather bucket seats, brushed steel dashboard, wooden steering wheel, and minimalistic, driver-focused design. Brass and stainless steel trim provide contrast, and details such as a weatherproof canvas tonneau and efficient heating demonstrate practical upgrades for contemporary use. Special equipment is limited, reflecting the purist racing heritage.

Other Remarkable Features

The brand’s marinet plywood flooring stands out for durability and weather resistance—a rare engineering choice among classic-style recreations. The customisability in powertrain, original handcrafting methods, and the availability of both VW and MGB-based mechanical combinations make each Teal Type 35 subtly unique.

Summary

The Teal Type 35 stands as a British tribute to one of racing history’s greatest designs, built with modern mechanical sensibility and meticulous craftsmanlike details. Blending classic Bugatti cues with engineering showcases from British specialists, it remains a sought-after curiosity for those who cherish pre-war style melded with 20th-century reliability.