1935 Frazer Nash-BMW 319 Roadster 'The Outlaw' - Registration no. LMF 37 Chassis no. 54158
Estimate: £95,000 - £120,000
• Well-known in VSCC circles
• New one-off aluminium body by Jonathan Rose
• Original chassis, engine, gearbox, brakes, axles and wings
• Recent engine top-end overhaul
One of an estimated 26 Type 319 open two-seaters imported into the UK, this striking Frazer Nash-BMW special - known as 'The Outlaw' - has competed regularly in trials, hill climbs and driving tests organised by the Vintage Sports Car Club. Dated 1983, a letter on file from BMW to the car's then-owner states that '54158' was supplied to Frazer Nash in Isleworth on 3rd July 1935. A right-hand drive, two-seater Cabriolet, the car appears to have remained unregistered until 30th March 1940 when it received the current registration, 'LMF 37'.
In the early 1960s, Bruce Hallsworth sold 'LMF 37' to one J G Shaw, who would own it for some 40 years. Writing to marque authority Mark Garfitt in 1993, Shaw states that he had started restoring the chassis. When he passed away, the project was taken on by his son. The chassis, engine and running gear were reported to have been extensively overhauled/renewed by 2003, and restoration of the body, said to be in very poor condition, was about to start. Unable to complete the restoration, the owner sold the car to a new custodian but no further progress was made until the next owner commissioned from Jonathan Rose a new aluminium body boasting an attractive blend of BMW 328 and 319 styling.
Ashridge Automobiles and pre-war BMW specialist Steve White undertook further work, which included rebuilding the engine and converting it to shell big-end bearings using later Bristol con-rods. A high-capacity Bristol oil pump and remote oil filter were added also. At the same time, the gearbox, steering, suspension, dynamo and starter motor were overhauled and the electrics rewired throughout. The original chassis, engine, gearbox, brakes, axles and wings have been retained.
Post-rebuild, the 319 has participated in various events, including the VSCC's flagship Prescott meeting and the Brooklands New Year Driving Tests. 'LMF 37' has recently benefited from an engine top-end overhaul including new valve guides, cylinder head gasket and water pump. In addition, the manifold was machined, the clutch thrust bearing replaced, and a service carried out by marque specialists Oliver Penny and Eddie Williams.
In 2020 the car had an extensive restoration- works included largely being rebodying the car by master craftsman Ian Pitney. At this time the body was re-sprayed in Black, and still presents in excellent overall condition. Works also included a period correct rewire, and an extensive engine service, and a top end rebuild by marque specialists. The Frazer Nash also benefited from new upholstery, tastefully completed with antique leather hide and re-carpeted with Wilton carpets. Accompanying documentation includes a photographic record of the restoration plus copies of correspondence with marque experts documenting the car's lengthy history. Used sparingly by its enthusiastic owner - viewing is highly recommended.
Goodwood Members' Meeting Auction - 13 April 2025, 11:00 BST
Chichester, Goodwood
Text & Image: Bonhams
