Chassis number PB0648 was ordered in 1935 by Andrew Hutchinson of Castledawson, Co Derry and registered 16th December 1935 with the number EZ 2444. Hutchinson requested that it be fitted from the works with a Marshall 75 supercharger, aero screen and bonnet strap and a 5.125 axle ratio specifically for racing. He campaigned the car in several events but most famously won the Limerick Grand Prix in 1936. This event was a milestone for the Irish motor racing scene, not least as it was an international meeting with the likes of Alfa Romeo, Bugatti and Maserati being represented but his victory in the PB in 1936 was over a 1498cc ERA.
Hutchinson continued to race the car in events, Phoneix Park (Dublin), The Ulster Automobile Club’s County Down Trophy (Bangor) and the Keelen Trophy at Tallaght which was another 1st Place ( in class ).
It was reported that the car had been disassembled for storage and safe keeping during the War but remarkably the original engine, no. 875 APB had remained with it. Having passed hands a couple of times post War the car was still more or less complete but still in ‘boxes‘ when it’s restoration began in 2009. This extensive work included a complete engine rebuild by MG specialist Andy King. It appeared in varies guises over the next few years, taking part at the Irish Festival of Speed and was displayed at Goodwood.
Now registered as 6 KPK, it’s specification now is that of its Limerick GP victory, fitted with a correct Marshall supercharger on the original engine with the original rear axle the car has current FIA papers (period D. Class 0S5). To comply with current road regulations the body is fitted with wings, a full screen and comes with full weather equipment – hood and side screens. It is supplied with copies of the substantial factory records, details of the restoration work and much correspondence and documents regarding the cars history, the FIA papers and a FIVA passport are also included. A superb and tenacious little car with an excellent history it is ‘on the button’ and ready to enjoyed or driven in a whole host of important historic motorsport events for which it is eligible.
