1962 Elva Courier MkIII FIA Specification Fastback Coupé
Registration no. 7832 PJ
Chassis no. E1075

This Elva Courier fastback Coupé was built in 1962 and registered as '7832 PJ' in March 1963. Believed to be the prototype MkIV fastback coupé used for that model's press launch at Epsom, this Elva was built on a MkIII (live rear axle) chassis and featured an oblong rear window rather than the wraparound design of the later cars. The second owner was Peter Cliffe, who retained the original numberplate, and the car, wearing the registration plate '744 NOJ', was featured in Specialist Sports Cars by Peter Filby. The original registration was subsequently retrieved.

Resurfacing with Roger Dunbar, who had acquired the rights to the Elva name, during 1995, the car had been partially stripped. Passing through the hands of John Kempton, Fred Boothby and Jim Lowry, the still dismantled Elva was then bought back by Fred Boothby, who restored it. He competed at the Goodwood Revival with the Elva before selling it to the previous owner in 2006. An occasional class winner, '7382 PJ' ran in the Top Hat, Equipe GTS, Bentley Drivers' Club and Classic Sports Car Club series.

The current owner purchased the Courier in the UK in 2009 and has entrusted Classic Performance Engineering with the maintenance of the car and its preparation for Historic race meetings. Successfully campaigned by Martin Greaves of Classic Performance Engineering, the car has run at the Goodwood Revival and in the Pre-63 GT Series. The car is offered with FIA Papers (Class GTS Period F Competition Car) and a history file with ownership history from new. The bodywork is original but the chassis has been completely refurbished and reinforced. FIA compliant modifications made to the car include:

• Limited slip differential (3.7:1)
• Competition shock absorbers
• Race-tuned B-Series 1,650cc MGA engine
• Four-speed helical gearbox
• Weber DCOE45 carburettor
• Kenlowe electric fan
• Front discs, twin Girling brake cylinders
• Racing safety belts
• Lifeline fire extinguisher system
• Period alloy wheels shod with Dunlop racing tyres

The engine has had a complete rebuild recently with a new steel crankshaft and rods, and the car is ready to race in the many prestigious Historic events and series for which it is eligible.