The Aston Martin Razor Blade was initially built in 1923 to break the one-hour ‘light car’ speed record with a focus on aerodynamics, reduced cross-section and lightweight performance. One of the earliest motorsport examples of aerodynamic design, the Razor Blade’s bodywork, was manufactured by the de Havilland Aircraft Company.
Measuring just 18.5 inches at its widest point, the Razor Blade is believed to be the narrowest race car ever built, hence its unique name. This is further reinforced by an inswept chassis, with a much narrower rear that gives it a distinctive look and driving characteristics. One of the unique named Works cars which formed the foundations of the now legendary Aston-Martin brand along with ‘Bunny’ and ‘Coal Scuttle’, the 4th oldest Aston Martin in existence, this is a remarkable opportunity to enjoy a legend so important that it is the inspiration for the BRDC badge.
The Razor Blade attempted to break the record – held by AC Cars – in 1923, at Brooklands. While it maintained record-breaking pace, the attempt was eventually abandoned after the race car repeatedly shed its front offside tyre at speeds over 100 miles per hour. Later in the year, however, the Razor Blade set a new record for the standing start mile and kilometer. It went on to see racing success throughout the 1920s.
Bamford and Martin car, chassis number 1915, the Razor Blade’s slender bodywork conceals a bespoke race engine initially developed for the 1922 French Grand Prix. The four-cylinder, twin overhead cam, 16-valve engine outputs 55 horsepower and was derived from half of a three-liter eight-cylinder Ballot engine.
It was raced regularly until the 1950s when it was sold to the Harrah Motor Museum in the USA, which eventually became the National Automobile Museum. During this time, it was returned to the UK. The current owner has lent the car to Brooklands Museum for many years, and it has been on display, apart from when the owner enjoyed using Razor Blade at various events. It has previously appeared at Goodwood FoS and can continue competing at numerous events including VSCC, AMOC and Shuttleworth events. Perhaps most surprisingly of all, the Razor Blade is road-registered and carries the plate XO9958. A large history file accompanies this fantastic and evocative car. Available to view by appointment at Ecurie Bertelli.
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Above content © 2024 Ecurie Bertelli, reviewed and edited by Rex McAfee
