Chassis No. 29518 Engine No. 236. Tourer body by K.C. Bodies of London. 10’ wheelbase. Top speed 90 mph. 6 cyl ohv 69mm X 100mm 2276cc. SU down-draft carburettor. 4 speed ‘silent third’ gearbox. Scintilla magneto ignition Model History
The new 18/70 announced in early 1930, was received with enthusiasm by Talbot dealers, and production plans were hastily accelerated. Designer Georges Roesch’s range simply reflected a genuine maximum speed for the cars (65, 75, 90, 95, 105,110), whereas many manufacturers had a somewhat fanciful approach to such designations. Arthur Fox convinced Clement Talbot that there was a fine competition car in the making, and 3 lightweight bodies were quickly built by Hoyal of London; with a little engine/chassis modification, the 90 was born and revealed to the world at Brooklands in the Double Twelve race of May 1930. The 90s enjoyed great success with the Fox and Nicholl team in 1930, featuring at Le Mans, Brooklands, Irish Grand Prix, Tourist Trophy, and also in the hands of private owners up until the mid-1930s. The early 75 was only available with the 10’ wheelbase (whereas the 90’s was 9’ 3”), useful to accommodate slightly bigger bodies, but up-grading to ’90 spec.’ was straightforward (and a not-uncommon process).
GO 8057
GO 8057 was registered in March 1931, having been ordered by Major Goldie Gardner (best known for his many international speed records) at the 1930 Motor show, and was supplied by Warwick Wright, of New Bond Street. Fox & Nicholl Ltd brought the car up to Major Gardner’s required specification, and in 1954 they also fitted a downdraft SU carburettor, tuned exhaust manifold and Scintilla magneto. The body by KC Bodies is unique – note extra fuel tanks and ‘faired’ running boards. The car has only had a total of three owners from new.
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