A.k.a.: Robert Blackman (Prowagen)
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posted on October 16th, 2008 at 01:22 AM
Ascort?
I have seen a couple of pics of an Ascort at Warwick, I did a search and see that they were only produced for a couple of years and only about a dozen
were made. Are there many left now??
Cheers,
Rob.
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posted on October 16th, 2008 at 03:28 PM
There is I think 5 in Adelaide. 2 of which were at warwick.
T54
C'mon kids gather round,
there's a new sensation hitting town,
It's moving straight, low to the ground,
it'll pick you up when your feeling down.
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posted on October 16th, 2008 at 04:31 PM
Lot 27
1959 Ascort TSV Continental GT Coupe
Guiding Range$34,500
Engine: Flat four-cylinder, 1582cc Gearbox: 4-speed manual Body work: Coupe Colour: Silver Engine No.:P64244 Chassis No.: TSV13000031 Interior: Red
Trim: Vinyl Wheels: Steel Disc Brakes: Drums
Description
Designed by a plastics consultant and engineer named Mirek Craney, who emigrated to Australia in 1950, the Ascort TSV forms a unique part of our local
motoring history and is a fascinating footnote to the histories of both Porsche and Volkswagen in the 1950s. Based on a Karmann-Ghia platform, the
Ascort was not a kit car - the fibreglass body was double-shelled and mounted on a tubular steel frame, with two safety steel roll bars incorporated
into the roof. The shell was further strengthened by reinforced steel windscreen tubes and padding in the dash and the body itself was a stylish coupe
clearly influenced by Italian designers like Ghia and Zagato, but with unique touches such as the integrated fibreglass bumpers and 356 Porsche
headlamps. Retaining the 2+2 seating layout of the Karmann Ghia, the Ascort's cabin area had a light, airy feel with plenty of room and reclining
bucket seats. Full instrumentation was provided, along with a Porsche steering wheel - the overall impression of the interior is certainly that of a
more upmarket GT and several reports favourably compared it with Aston Martins or Ferraris. The Ascort was normally powered by modified Volkswagen
running gear, with Okrasa hop-up kits (Porsche componentry was an optional) elevating performance levels well above that of the contemporary Karmann
Ghia. At the time of its release in 1958, the Ascort was priced at 1,998 pounds - nearly twice the price of the Holden. Sadly, production of the
Ascort ceased after just 19 cars had been assembled. The driving experience will be familiar to anyone who has experienced a Porsche 356A, but with
its unique styling and Australian identity, the car will appeal to those who like their classic motoring a little out of the ordinary.
History
This Ascort was produced in 1959 and is one of only 19 produced by Continental Coachworks Sydney. This Ascort was sold new to New Zealand, with the
first owner being an around the world solo yachtsman - photos survive of the car being unloaded on the docks. The vehicle returned to Australia in
1991 and was stored with a vast car collection in Sydney until 2003. The current owner then purchased the Ascort and embarked on a comprehensive
four-year restoration, a project completed in 2007 and the car was then fully road registered. The restoration was done in keeping with the period,
using several options available when new. Brakes, wheels, transaxle, and some fittings (including the motor) are Porsche 356. All mechanicals have
been refurbished, the trim and body restored with correct "new old stock" parts sourced to complete an authentic package. Restored as a daily
driver, the Ascort could, with a little development, become a unique historic racer, rally car or club vehicle and is eligible for all Volkswagen and
Porsche club events. Of the 12 Ascorts known to have survived, this example is the only example currently restored and on the road and is a rare piece
of Australian motoring history. To be sold registered in New South Wales and with substantial documentation, including many contemporary articles from
magazines like Modern Motor and Road & Track, a comprehensive photo file, correspondenc, receipts and more.
I dream of a day when a chicken can cross a road without being asked for it's motive!
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A.k.a.: Robert Blackman (Prowagen)
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posted on October 21st, 2008 at 01:29 AM
There a cool looking thing, remind me of the catfish i have in my aquarium lol
