1957-Style Connaught 'B-Type' Single-Seater

The records reveal that Connaught built seven B-Type cars, not surprisingly numbered 'B1' to 'B7', and many years later, two facsimiles were created, bearing consecutive Serial numbers 'B8' and 'B9', to continue the original series. The car offered here is a sister B-Type, identified as 'B10', whose construction spanned a remarkable 15-year period.

Built by marque and model specialist Roger Hart, 'B10' was originally created by engineers who had restored and race-prepared original B-Types -  'B1', 'B2', 'B4', and 'B5' - for their owners. Importantly 'B10' features a period Alta engine, which we are informed was rebuilt just before our vendor acquired the car.

The B10's entirely distinctive appearance stems mainly from its 'Monaco' nose cone which was designed by the works team specifically for the Monte Carlo street circuit. Shorter, sturdier, and less vulnerable during the hectic opening stages of the race than the standard B-Type body, it is a key feature of the car’s identity. The dashboard and instruments currently fitted are also ex-works originals, sourced from 'B3' many years ago. Additionally, the fuel tank, undertray, and seat were taken from 'B4' when that car was rebuilt.

The car was built around an exact replica chassis created for Stephen Langton in the 1970s. B-Types were notable for their use of the Wilson-type pre-selector gearbox, and the unit installed in 'B10' was built by the legendary late Bill Morris to original B-Type specification, whilst the rear axle differential-cum-drop gear unit has been remanufactured to original specifications, together with the rest of the drivetrain.

All body panels were newly formed, based on bucks acquired from the late Soames Langton, whose father, Stephen, had amassed an extensive collection of B-Type hardware through the mid-1980s. Presented in the works team’s original British Racing Green livery, this Connaught 'B-Type' also comes with RAC MSA Historic Technical Passport papers dated December 2009.

The car has been part of our vendor’s private collection for many years, entrusted to the team at Michael Hibberd Motor Engineers Ltd, always with the intention of campaigning it at high-profile events worldwide, however, a change of direction means that the car is now offered reluctantly for sale as essentially a project to complete. Once finished, this special Connaught B-Type could provide access to some of the most prestigious historic motorsport events and would be welcome anywhere. We strongly encourage all interested parties to view the car in person at Race Retro.