[Ashley James]

Prices are far too low and rebuilding cars in the UK now, although
done to a high standard, can be two or three times the price the
same work done in Australia, New Zealand, The States and South
Africa. However I believe that the collectors will do it once they
are more aware of the cars and how good they are. Having just
finished a total and comprehensive rebuild of a 400, I'm betting on
it. For me they are a better and more useable car than the sports
cars that used the engine, not as fast but excellent high speed
touring cars and perfect for the posh concours events.

Mine may be used to open racing each day at the forthcoming Goodwood
Revival and also to commemorate the sixtieth anniversary. The Duke of
Richmond owned one the same Cambridge Grey colour and used it to open
the circuit, mine will pretend to be his.

I must admit that I couldn't face the thought of three days of the
revival meeting and there didn't seem to be many freebies on offer so
Andrew Blow is trying to persuade me to let him use it, which I will
probably do. It's a bit of a wrench after so much work and having been
through hell with various teething problems.

400s are going up now and they have the best sporting credentials, but
I really hope the few 403s that remain will be restored too.

Ashley