From: Barry Lovelock
Date: 29 May 2002
Time: 07:55:03
Remote Name: 213.122.186.107
Yes, I was referring to the EA, which is generally known as the "Ulster" for the 200-off, even though, as Bill so rightly says that that honour really only applies to the short-bonnet, long-scuttle "team" cars from the TT races. Surely more Supersports than their successors anyway? Where all the myths spring from of course. This is what all the fun's about.
Maybe we should record the different bodied cars as completely different cars? Alright, there are small detail changes often, but if it looks different, then it is different surely? I don't think nowadays that anyone would disown a car because because it was "Foreign" bodied, rather than "home-market". Or would they? Certainly in the Fifties there was a degree of narrow-mindedness I suggest that Bill hints at.
The Speedy to me (especially in red!), is one of the most desirable Austins, but I would suggest that most were not like Bill's, so I stand by my earlier comment and the equally famous, "all show and no go" one, both made by none other than Martin Eyre in his book. Are we going to criticise that too, even if he doesn't mention Lotus?!! Like the Ulster with the standard wings it's too heavy and a rich-boy's toy I'm afraid! Doubtless, Jeremy Clarkson would agree with me.... I've only ever seen two over here actually.