Factory records for the production of C8 852 S0 confirm that the car was laid down in 1937 and first registered in March 1938 as CWU 11. The records also confirm she was finished in green with green leather, just as you see her today. CWU 11 presents extremely well and has benefited from past enthusiasts who have lavished her with generous attention and budget, with her current custodian being no exception.

Over the last 18 months in excess of £32,000 has been invested on cosmetics and mechanical aspects of CWU 11; highlights of which are listed below:

New radiator core
Brakes re-built and new hydraulic hoses
Replacement of fuel lines in copper
New kingpins and bushes
New road springs and bushes all round
Set up of front axle for improved camber road holding
New hand brake mechanism
Adjust steering box
Fit modern alternator for improved power supply
Fit indicator's
New mohair hood
New windscreen rubbers
Paint wheels and new tyres
Fitment of moss gearbox (original will come with the car)

The above is a summary of completed works, by both Ecurie Bertelli, and a Derby-based automotive engineer, and invoices covering the above plus other works are detailed in the accompanying history file. This can be viewed when inspecting the car.

Our thoughts

The 2-litre engine, has significant torque allowing effortless cruising, rapid hill climbing and high-speed driving. I'm sure this is partly helped by the four-branch-tuned exhaust manifold. The handling is superb, in no small part down recent front and rear suspension work. The upgraded hydraulic brakes give great feel and unravelled stopping power. When on the road the upgraded Moss gearbox gives real driving pleasure, and with the synchromesh its much quieter than the original straight-cut Aston-Martin gearboxes. These attributes, along with good luggage capacity, weather equipment and generous interior space and leg room of any pre-war Aston makes this the ideal rally and touring car.

This is car is 100% ready to be enjoyed by a new owner and the perfect introduction to pre-war Aston-Martin ownership.