• Copy of an early 1950s Formula 2 racer
• Bristol 2.2 Litre engine and Bristol 401 'hemi' cylinder head
• Present ownership since 2002

In late 1934, AFN Ltd concluded an agreement with BMW for the importation of their cars into the UK where they were sold as Frazer Nash-BMWs, some with coachwork by British firms and others with German-made bodies. BMW models 319 and 319/1 were introduced in 1935 powered by six-cylinder engines, as were the 315 and 315/1.

Ron Willis's BMW special started life as a BMW 315/1 of 1936 and subsequently was modified in accordance with early 1950s Formula 2 specifications. After the end of the 1952 racing season the Willis BMW was consigned to hibernation as a 'basket case', and changed hands until celebrated collector Fuad Mazjub sold the pieces to Brian May, who partially restored it. Proby Cautley purchased the semi-restored car, completed the rebuild and presented it at Silverstone in 2003. The car also took part in numerous events in 2004.

An exact copy of the 'BMW Willis Special', this car was built in parallel with the restoration of the original Willis BMW. It is based on a 319/1 chassis and carries a similar lightweight aluminium body.

The Willis Special was acquired at a UK auction in 2002. From there, the vehicle was dismantled, with semi-shafts, front shock absorbers, disassembled and refurbished. By 2004, extensive work included mounting a 2.2-litre Bristol engine, replacing the differential, and fitting new ball bearings and sealing rings to the rear brakes. The chassis was reinforced, and the gearbox, steering pillar, and carburettors were overhauled. In 2005, the restoration continued with the fabrication of a spare wheel baseplate, brake fluid reservoir, and front shock absorber components, alongside the painting of five rims and fitting of Michelin tires. The handbrake system was entirely redesigned, and the engine oil sump was modified. From 2007-2009, the brake pump, front stub axles, and dashboard wiring were repaired, with the engine repeatedly removed for valve grinding, connecting rod adjustments, and timing chain installation. In 2010, interior refinements were carried out.

This year, the car has undergone recent maintenance to its fuel, ignition, and engine systems, although we would advise close inspection before returning to the road for regular use. The fuel system includes a new fuel filter, a disassembled, cleaned, and reinstalled fuel pump, and new fuel lines. The carburettors were disassembled, cleaned, and reinstalled. The ignition and electrical system feature an adjusted distributor and a new battery, and the oil has been changed.

Additional paperwork consists of an original Frazer Nash maintenance booklet; and a photographic record of work carried out from 2004-2010.

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.