Exceptional 1960 Fairthorpe Zeta Last Of Its Kind

Article written by Bush Tyres

The Last Fairthorpe Zeta

Our Spalding branch had a visit from a very rare car, thought to be completely extinct at one point this lone surviving 1960 Fairthorpe Zeta was first introduced in 1959 and powered by a six-cylinder Ford Zepher engine. The 2553cc engine was available in three stages of tune with the highest-powered cars having six individual carburettors. In total it is believed that only 5 Fairthorpe Zeta Zepher models were ever produced.

Fairthorpe LTD was a British manufacturer of automobiles from 1954 to 1973. Production of the Fairthorpe Zeta was all British, with its factory based in Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire from 1954-61 and then later in Denham. The company was founded by Air Vice Marshal Donald Bennett CB, CBE, DSO. After being the youngest AVM in the Royal Air Force, he founded an airline as the first pilot to fly commercially from Heathrow after the war. Following some time as an MP Donald then decided he was going to build cars.

By the mid-50s fibreglass was still in its early stages and Don decided to use this new material to make small and light cars for the ‘younger driver’. The Fairthorpe Zeta, consisted of a strengthened Morris Minor chassis, the Ford Zephyr 2.5 litre straight six engine which was tuned using six Amal carburettors and had a considerable reputation for speed.

The history and adventures of this car are fully documented in the owner’s blog, you can read more about this fascinating story here

Alignment and Winter Checks

As with any car, new or an old classic like this one. The benefits of correct wheel alignment not only matter for perfect road holding performance but can help reduce your fuel consumption and extend the life of your tyres. To get your car in for FREE alignment check, call into any one of our local branches or make an appointment by clicking on this link and completing a short webform.

At this time of year especially why not take advantage of our FREE winter check along with your Alignment. Bush tyres trained technicians will check your car to make sure it is fully prepared for the winter including tyres, brakes, battery and antifreeze checks. Don’t get caught out by avoidable breakdowns and book your appointment today!

At Bush Tyres we have the privilege to work on many different types of cars, from family cars to sports cars and everything in between. You can always be assured of the highest quality of work and attention to detail from our team of trained professionals. For all your tyre and alignment needs on any make or model of car from any era, Bush tyres dedicated team are here to help maintain your vehicle to the highest standards.

Get your car booked in and stay one step ahead of winter!

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