STYLED FOR THE HILLS

With sharp lines that pair elegance with sporting purpose, this former factory demonstrator AC 16/80 was born for competition

- MICK WALSH

It's remarkable to think that British customers during the inter-war years would often take a newly purchased sports car straight from the showroom and enter it for a trial. There seemed to be no concerns about subjecting an expensive SS100, Frazer Nash or AC to some spirited green-lane motoring, never mind a rough section over a Cornish mine.

Other than Brooklands and Shelsley Walsh, there were few permanent motorsport venues in the UK at the time, so classic trials were by far the most active competitive events for wealthy enthusiasts. The challenges of Simms, Darracott or Beggar's Roost were more talked about than The Fork or Railway Straight. As well as the rewarding road miles around the country, often through the night, huge local crowds turned out for the more dramatic special sections.