The A-Z of Racing Cars


ERA E-Type




Testing at Donington Park, 1939.

Designed by Peter Berthon, the car didn't race until late 1939, appearing first in the International Trophy at Brooklands - it was withdrawn due to poor performance. Only three cars were built, numbered GP1, GP2 and GP3. Although unsuccessful in competition, it was fast - it was timed by Mercedes at 172 mph at Reims.

Frontal area:9 sq ft
Power:260 bhp
Wheels:18 inch front, 19 inch rears
Brakes:hydraulically actuated drums with twin leading shoes
Suspension:De Dion rear, copied from Mercedes W125, although originally designed with swing axles
Gearbox:Originally synchromesh. The synchro rings were removed for GP1
Capacity:1487cc, eventually bored to 2000cc. Supercharged with a Zoller vane-type blower, a two-stage Roots supercharger was used post-war.


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