This 1932 Aston Martin Lemans was a factory show car at the Olympia Motor Show in London in 1932. The green color was special for the show and the car was built with aluminum over an Ash frame. It came to the US in the 60’s and fell on hard times. The engine and body separated, then reunited and traded for a load of dirt. After a complete rebuild by the owner and Morntane Engineering in London in 1984 the car toured Europe travelling 2,000 miles trouble free. Since then the car has had many outings from the UK and Ireland to Highway 1 in California.

The 1932 Aston Martin Le Mans is a classic example of British automotive excellence, combining performance, style, and racing heritage. Its powerful inline-four engine, sleek design, and racing pedigree make it an exceptional vehicle. The Le Mans remains a cherished and celebrated car among collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and revered models in Aston Martin's history.

Overview

• Production Year: 1932
• Manufacturer: Aston Martin
• Model: Le Mans

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The 1932 Aston Martin Le Mans is powered by a 1.5-liter (1495 cc) inline-four engine.
  • This engine produces approximately 70 horsepower.
  • It features twin SU carburetors, providing efficient fuel delivery and contributing to the car's performance.
• Transmission:
  • The car features a 4-speed manual transmission.
  • The gearbox is known for its precision and reliability, suitable for both racing and road use.
• Chassis:
  • The Le Mans is built on a strong and lightweight ladder-frame chassis.
  • The wheelbase measures 102 inches, contributing to the car's agility and stability.
• Suspension:
  • The front suspension consists of a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • The rear suspension features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling performance.
• Brakes:
  • The Le Mans is equipped with mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels.
  • These brakes offer adequate stopping power for the car's performance capabilities.

Performance

• Top Speed: The Aston Martin Le Mans can achieve a top speed of approximately 85 mph (137 km/h).
• Acceleration: The car's lightweight construction and powerful engine provide brisk acceleration, making it competitive in its class.
• Handling: The Le Mans offers responsive and balanced handling, making it suitable for both racing and spirited driving on public roads.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The Le Mans features a sleek and aerodynamic body designed for both performance and aesthetics.
  • The car has a long hood, flowing fenders, and a low, sloping rear end, giving it a dynamic and sporty appearance.
  • The open-top design and minimalistic windscreen emphasize its racing heritage and lightweight construction.
• Interior:
  • The interior of the Le Mans is functional and spartan, with seating for two passengers.
  • The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, providing comfort for long-distance driving and racing.
  • The dashboard features essential gauges and controls, reflecting the car's focus on performance and driver engagement.
• Styling:
  • The styling of the Le Mans is a blend of classic 1930s British sports car elements and racing features.
  • The car's design emphasizes both aerodynamics and aesthetics, contributing to its enduring appeal and status as a design icon.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The 1932 Aston Martin Le Mans represents an important period in the history of Aston Martin, showcasing the company's commitment to producing high-performance sports cars.
  • It played a significant role in establishing Aston Martin's reputation in endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
• Cultural Impact:
  • The Aston Martin Le Mans is a symbol of the innovation and progress of the early automotive industry, representing the golden age of British sports cars.
  • It was favored by enthusiasts who appreciated its combination of style, performance, and racing pedigree.

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1932 Aston Martin Lemans in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.

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