Discover the Aston-Martin Razor Blade: A Pioneering Pre-War Race Car Now Available
Ecurie Bertelli, the leading global authority on pre-war Aston Martin vehicles, has recently reintroduced the 1923 Aston Martin Razor Blade to the market. This marks its first appearance since the 1980s. Originally constructed to challenge the one-hour 'light car' speed record, this specialist racing car emphasises aerodynamic efficiency, a reduced cross-section, and lightweight performance.
As one of the first motorsport vehicles to incorporate aerodynamic principles, the de Havilland Aircraft Company crafted the Razor Blade with bodywork. It measures a mere 18.5 inches at its widest, making it arguably the narrowest race car ever constructed, which inspired its distinctive name. Its inswept chassis, narrowing towards the rear, contributes to its unique appearance and driving characteristics.
In 1923, at Brooklands, the Razor Blade endeavoured to surpass the speed record held by AC Cars. The attempt was halted despite exceeding 100 miles per hour as the race car repeatedly lost its front-offside tyre. Nevertheless, later that year, it set new records for the standing start mile and kilometre and continued to achieve racing success throughout the 1920s.
Under its slender body lies a bespoke race engine, initially developed for the 1922 French Grand Prix. This four-cylinder, twin overhead cam, 16-valve engine, which delivers 55 horsepower, evolved from half of a three-litre eight-cylinder Ballot engine.
The Razor Blade was regularly raced until the 1950s, when it was acquired by the Harrah Motor Museum in the USA, now the National Automobile Museum. Later, it returned to the UK for preservation at the Brooklands Museum, where it still participates in occasional racetrack outings. The car, road registered with the plate XO9958, has featured at prestigious events such as Goodwood FoS and currently qualifies for races at VSCC, AMOC, and Shuttleworth gatherings.
With over four decades of expertise, Ecurie Bertelli is the world leader in the sale, care, repair, restoration, and conservation of pre-war Aston Martin cars. They are also a primary racing and event support provider for pre-war Aston-Martins globally.
Robert Blakemore, Managing Director at Ecurie Bertelli, said, "Introducing this extraordinary race car to the market is a privilege. The Aston-Martin Razor Blade embodies the innovative and daring spirit of 1920s motorsport. Since its restoration in the 1980s, it has been meticulously maintained and predominantly showcased at the Brooklands Museum. We invite all interested parties to contact us to discover more about this iconic racing car.”
