In August 1920 STD Motors Limited was formed, reflecting the merger of Sunbeam, Talbot and Darracq manufacturers under single ownership. During the mid-20s, Talbot’s Swiss-born chief engineer, Georges Roesch, was commissioned with the design of an all-new Talbot which resulted in the successful 14/45 model of 1926. Whilst only of 1,666 cc, the engine for this car had sophisticated engineering - six cylinders; a short, stiff 7-bearing crankshaft; very light valve gear and large ports/valves, which made for a very compact engine with the ability to safely rev to over 5,000 rpm and run a high compression ratio. This – effectively lower weight and greater efficiency – allowed performance figures similar to much larger engines to be achieved. This formula worked well and the engine was repeatedly bored out, allowing further performance improvements. The first was the 18-70 model (later simply the Talbot 70 or 75), with an engine capacity increased to 2,276 cc. This was followed by the Talbot 90, with a higher compression ratio and bigger carburettor giving a further increase in power. Given the relatively light weight and compact design, the six-cylinder Talbot was well suited to racing and the 90 model was highly successful. In June 1930, two cars finished third and fourth overall in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, being beaten only by 6½ litre Bentleys. Later that year, the Talbot 90s also achieved class victories in the Irish Grand Prix, Ulster Tourist Trophy and the B.R.D.C. 500 at Brooklands. To better compete in the 3 litre class, the engine capacity was again increased - to 2,969 cc, to create the Talbot 105 model in 1931. With tuning, these engines were reportedly capable of 125 bhp. Works cars claimed a 1-2-3 finish in the Brooklands Double 12 in 1931 and a podium place at Le Mans. In the Alpine Trial that year, a 105 won the Coupe des Glaciers. In 1932 three cars entered the Alpine trial and all three finished without penalty, to earn the manufacturer the Coupes des Alpes – a success repeated in 1934. The Talbot 105 was replaced by the 110 model in 1934 (with a larger capacity engine) after around 330 had been built. This car started life as a Talbot 110 saloon model, first registered in May 1937. In the hands of only its 4th owner in late 2004, it began a lengthy transformation into a sporting Talbot Special, built to fast road/rally specification, running a 3.4 litre block. It has subsequently received further modification and upgrades and seen regular use touring and hill climbing in Jersey, at the VSCC Prescott Hill Climb and track runs at Le Mans Classic.

There has been a huge effort made (and cost) in creating and maintaining this very fast Talbot 105 Special. There is a substantial history file – with photographs – detailing the initial build and modifications, together with subsequent upgrade and maintenance work. With the handbuilt aluminium body and high specification engine, it is unique and offers a rare opportunity to sample a 30’s vintage, high performance sports car. Those that race tuned Talbot 105s today describe them as “very easy to drive…. akin to a modern car of the 1960s” with great roadholding and a keen turn of speed. This car is offered as a result of the owner’s decision to downsize his collection and is currently Jersey registered. We can assist with shipping and importing processes if required.

The original 110 chassis was shortened by 12” and a new body constructed by Vintage Cars.com in Hampshire, using an aluminium skin over steel framework, to create an open-topped 2-seater sports body. The car was finished in pale blue with royal blue wings and remains in very good condition. The car has both a folding windscreen and a drivers aeroscreen. In addition to the simple tonneau cover first fitted, a new folding hood was made in 2017 which, together with the accompanying sidescreens, make the car quite weather tight.

The interior has been completely renewed, with a new dashboard and full complement of (mostly) period gauges, leather trimmed seats and new carpets. This is all in very good condition.

In 2005-6 the engine was fully rebuilt by specialist A. Archer, Essex to Talbot 105 specification. Similarly the 4-speed pre-selector gearbox was rebuilt by Schumacher Racing Products Ltd. In 2015 noted experts Pace Products, Suffolk rebuilt the engine as follows: new Pace sourced, cast iron 3.4 litre cylinder block - new Arrow lightweight race crank and rods with shell bearings throughout - new forged race pistons, running a 9.0:1 compression ratio - new high-lift rally spec camshaft and followers - new high flow oil pump & modern full-flow filter - the original Talbot head was gas flowed and fitted with new race spec valves/springs - the engine was power tested at 165bhp Pace are responsible for the preparation of most of the surviving Talbot works cars – the “GO” cars – from the successful 1931 racing season. In 2017, the BD105 gearbox received further attention and upgrades and the wheels and spokes were renewed/repaired as required, powder coated and new racing tyres fitted. With no expense spared, the car is in excellent mechanical condition and drives very well.