1905 Clément-Talbot 12/15 HP 4VB
- Engine
- 4-cylinder, 85mm bore, 4VB specification, SU carburettor and Bosch magneto
A 1905 Clément-Talbot 4VB, chassis number 50, built during a transitional period at the factory when both 4V and 4VB components were in use. Delivered new to the Coleman family of Carlow, Ireland, where it was partially disassembled around 1910 and remained so until 1976. Restored to running condition by its second owner, Jim Boland, with a replacement body of circa-1907 origin, a recast cylinder, and period-appropriate ancillaries; subsequently dated by the Veteran Car Club and enjoyed on the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
Ownership
- —Auction saleSold £80,500 (≈ $101K)
- 1906 → 1976Factory deliveryAlfred E Coleman familypartial documentation
Irish family based in Carlow, known as Talbot enthusiasts; partially dismantled the vehicle around 1910, after which it remained unassembled until sold. Original delivery date uncertain but registered from 1906.
- 1976 →Private saleJim Bolandfull documentation
Undertook a comprehensive restoration, sourcing a replacement body reportedly from 1907 and having a missing engine cylinder recast; drove the car at multiple events including the London to Brighton run. Veteran Car Club dating investigation conducted during his ownership confirmed a 1905 build date.
Competition
- —London to Brighton Veteran Car RunDriver: Jim Boland
Participated on at least two separate occasions while in Boland's ownership following restoration.
Maintenance & restoration
- 1910Maintenance
The Coleman family partially dismantled the vehicle; it remained in a disassembled state from this point until its sale in 1976.
At the time of later rediscovery, the steering assembly was still attached to the chassis and major drivetrain and body components were retained, but both body and radiator were missing.
- —Restoration
Full restoration carried out following the 1976 acquisition; missing radiator was replaced and a body of approximately 1907 origin sourced in the UK was fitted. A missing engine cylinder was recast, and the motor was fitted with an SU carburettor and Bosch magneto to improve reliability.
Cylinder recasting was performed by Frank Smith of Alderley Edge. The Veteran Car Club Dating Committee subsequently examined the car and formally assigned a 1905 date.
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