1959 Austin A35 HRDC Spec
An Austin A35 prepared to full HRDC Academy specification for television personality and businessman Theo Paphitis, who commissioned a best-available road car to be professionally converted with fibreglass panels, racing safety equipment, and a sealed 1275cc Academy engine. The car competed in the inaugural seasons of the Academy series, including appearances at the 2016 Goodwood Revival — where Paphitis was paired with nine-time Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen — and the 2017 Silverstone Classic.
Ownership
- 2018-02-23Auction saleSold £17,500 (≈ $22K)
- Date unknownAcquisition unknownTheo Paphitispartial documentation
Paphitis commissioned the acquisition of a sound road car which was then comprehensively built to HRDC Academy race regulations on his behalf. The car was raced and developed across multiple seasons.
Competition
- 2016HRDC Academy2016 Goodwood RevivalDriver: Theo Paphitis
Paphitis was co-driven by Tom Kristensen, nine-time Le Mans winner, for this event.
- 2017HRDC Academy2017 Silverstone ClassicDriver: Theo Paphitis
Car completed both races without incident, a notable result given the close-contact nature of the competition.
Maintenance & restoration
- —Restoration
A road-going Austin A35 was professionally converted to full HRDC Academy competition specification, encompassing fitment of fibreglass body panels, race safety equipment, and installation of a fresh sealed 1275cc Academy-spec engine.
Work described as being of near Touring Car preparation standard. Commissioned by Theo Paphitis to the highest available specification.
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