1962 Cooper T59 BMC Formula Junior

£ 59 950

The Ex-Suzy & Chuck Dietrich 1962 Cooper T59 Formula Junior

Chassis Number: FJ/24/62

Engine Number: BMC-XSP-1854-20

This 1962 Cooper T59 Formula Junior holds a remarkable place in motorsport history. Originally ordered by American racer Suzy Dietrich, it was recommended to her by friends Peter Revson and Tim Mayer. Delivered to the USA in August 1962, the car competed in numerous events across North America and even as far south as Puerto Rico, achieving multiple victories in the hands of both Suzy and her husband, Chuck Dietrich.

A Proven Race Winner

The Cooper T59 was built to the latest specifications of the time, featuring disc brakes, a five-speed gearbox, and an 1100cc BMC engine. Finished in British Racing Green, Suzy initially requested a light green stripe on the body, but time constraints meant the car debuted in its unadorned dark green colour, which she described as “sinister.” Its first outing came just days after its arrival in the United States, with the car flown directly from London to Cleveland.

Throughout 1962 and 1963, the Dietrichs campaigned the car extensively, travelling to events across the USA and Canada. The T59 competed in prestigious venues such as Mosport Park and Sebring, with highlights including Chuck’s victories at Marlboro Raceway and Cumberland. The couple’s exploits also took them to Puerto Rico for the inaugural Grand Prix at the island’s newly constructed circuit, where Suzy gained significant media attention as the only female driver at the event.

During the 1963 season, the car was upgraded to a rare six-speed Cooper gearbox, enhancing its performance further. In September, the Dietrichs raced the T59 at Elkhart Lake, where Chuck took the wheel, while Suzy piloted his Elva 300. The pair’s friendly rivalry added to the car’s colourful history. Its final outings with the Dietrichs came in early 1964 before it was sold to its second owner, Reed Rollo.

Rollo continued the T59’s competitive legacy, claiming victories at events such as Mid-Ohio. After changing hands several times in the USA, the car was eventually imported to Australia in 1981, where a restoration was initiated but remained incomplete for over two decades. In 2006, the car was fully restored to racing condition in Australia and subsequently returned to the USA. It then came back to its homeland in 2012, where it was sparingly used before being acquired by the current owner in 2013.

Since then, the car has been meticulously maintained by Simon Hadfield Motorsport. Recent work has included a bare-chassis overhaul, the fitment of a new roll hoop to comply with modern regulations, and an engine rebuild by Stuart Rolt. Notably, the car retains its original BMC XSP 1100cc engine—a factory-built unit with unique features—and the rare Cooper six-speed gearbox fitted during the Dietrichs’ ownership. Further original components include the chassis plate, steering wheel, and various other period features.

The Cooper T59 is a significant model in the evolution of Formula Junior. Debuting in 1962, it incorporated advancements such as a lower, slimmer body, wider suspension, and magnesium wheels. It proved highly competitive, securing numerous victories for drivers like Richard Attwood and Denny Hulme. Formula Junior itself played a pivotal role in motorsport, producing future stars such as Jim Clark and John Surtees.