1953 Tojeiro-Bristol Barchetta

Chassis number: PHC101

Registration: DA860MV

Engine: 2.0-litre Bristol 100B2 straight-six (plus accompanying 3.8-litre Jaguar engine and gearbox)

Besley Heritage Ltd are proud to offer for sale a highly significant example of early British motorsport engineering. This 1953 Tojeiro-Bristol Barchetta (chassis PHC101) represents not only a pivotal moment in the evolution of British sports racing cars, but also a direct link to the genesis of the AC Ace and, by extension, the Shelby Cobra. It is one of only three cars built to this specification—sister to the famous “LOY 500”.

John Tojeiro, a former naval air force engineer, brought his mechanical ingenuity to motor racing at a key period in its development. Beginning with a modified MG TA, he would go on to design and build a number of competitive racing cars under his own name, each centred around his hallmark tubular spaceframe chassis. His designs were adaptable, often powered by a range of engines including those from Aston Martin, Coventry Climax, Jaguar, and Bristol.

In 1953, gentleman driver Chris Threlfall commissioned Tojeiro to build a barchetta in the mould of the Ferrari 166 MM. Registered as “LOY 500,” the car went on to become a successful competition machine, and ultimately provided the basis for the chassis Tojeiro licensed to AC Cars for use in the new AC Ace—a platform that would go on to underpin one of the most celebrated Anglo-American sports cars in history.

PHC101 is the third and final chassis built to this original specification. According to Tojeiro himself, the car was initially equipped with a Jaguar XK engine and reportedly driven in period by Ron Flockhart, two-time Le Mans winner. It was later modified with an extended wheelbase (8 feet 3 inches—around 12 inches longer than standard) and fitted with a Bristol engine. Subsequently, the car was reconfigured as a single-seater before undergoing a comprehensive restoration to its original barchetta form.

The restoration, carried out in the late 1990’s under the ownership of Guido Ferrari (and with input from John Tojeiro himself), was completed in Italy and included the fabrication of new hand-formed aluminium bodywork. This body was modelled on that of LOY 500, inspired by the Touring-bodied Ferrari 166 MM, and finished in a beautiful British Racing Green with dark green leather upholstery.

Although Ferrari originally intended to refit the car with a Jaguar XK engine, ASI and FIVA required the car be fitted with the Bristol 100B2 straight-six to meet eligibility requirements. As such, PHC101 is powered by the correct Bristol engine—an appropriate and characterful power unit derived from the pre-war BMW 328—and paired with a four-speed gearbox. A fully rebuilt 3.8-litre Jaguar XK engine and gearbox (unused since rebuild) accompany the car, offering versatility for different historic touring or competition events.

The chassis retains correct period features including independent front suspension via transverse leaf springs, a live rear axle, and Alfin drum brakes all around. The interior remains faithful to the original, with Smiths instruments and a minimalist dash layout.

PHC101 is supported by extensive provenance, including period photographs, restoration documentation, and direct correspondence with John Tojeiro. With FIA, ASI, and FIVA certification, the car is eligible for leading international historic events including the Mille Miglia, Monaco Historic Grand Prix, Le Mans Classic and Goodwood Revival. It has previously competed in the Mille Miglia and, depending on the status of its FIA passport, may be eligible for the Competition class at Monaco, beyond the Regularity category.

Now presented in near-immaculate condition and accompanied by both its correct Bristol engine and a high-specification Jaguar unit, PHC101 represents a compelling opportunity for the serious collector or historic racer. A rare and highly significant car with direct ties to one of the most important chassis designs in British motorsport history.