Railton, a marque synonymous with British automotive elegance and innovation, first captivated enthusiasts between 1933 and 1940 with its distinctive blend of English coachwork and American engineering. Founded by Noel Macklin after selling his Invicta company, Railton was inspired by Reid Railton, the world-renowned speed record designer. The goal was to combine refined British bodywork with powerful U.S. engines to create high-performance cars that were both stylish and exhilarating.
The inaugural model, the Railton Terraplane, made its debut in 1933. It featured a 4010 cc straight-eight engine from Hudson, housed in a sleek British body crafted by John Charles Ranalah. This model quickly gained fame for its impressive performance, described as a pre-war Shelby Cobra. With a 0–130 mph time of just 13 seconds, it was a marvel of its time. The Terraplane was initially offered as a two-door tourer, and its exceptional speed and agility set a new standard for automotive performance.
In 1935, Railton introduced the Railton 8, which replaced the Terraplane’s chassis with that of the Hudson Eight. The new model came with a 4168 cc engine producing 113 bhp and a range of body styles from various coachbuilders including Ranalah, R.E.A.L, Carbodies, and Coachcraft. The Railton 8 was lauded for its acceleration, capable of reaching 60 mph in just 8.8 seconds. With only 1,379 units produced, it became a coveted classic.
The Railton Cobham followed in 1937, featuring a smaller 6-cylinder engine and a more compact design. With only 81 units made, it was available in saloon or drophead coupé forms and maintained the brand’s reputation for performance with a touch of elegance.
In 1938, the Railton 10 hp joined the lineup, built on a Standard Flying Nine chassis. Despite its smaller size and lower price, this model carried the spirit of the Railton name and was available in either saloon or drophead coupé forms. Only 51 units were made, making it a rare and cherished collector’s item.
By 1939, as World War II loomed, Railton’s automotive production ceased. The company was sold to Hudson Motor Car Company, which transferred production to London. However, the outbreak of the war halted production, and post-war attempts to revive Railton were unsuccessful due to economic challenges. Although a new model was shown at the 1949 London Motor Show, its high cost prevented it from going into production.
The Railton name was revived in 1989 by the Railton Motor Company, founded in Wixford, Warwickshire. This new venture was spearheaded by designer William Towns, known for his work with Aston Martin and Rover. Partnering with financier John Ransom, Towns sought to bring Railton’s classic allure into the modern era. The revival focused on two models, the F28 Fairmile and the F29 Claremont, both styled by Towns and based on Jaguar XJS running gear. The F28 Fairmile, with its sporty design and wider wheels, contrasted with the more touring-oriented F29 Claremont, which featured elegant rear fender skirts. Both models maintained Jaguar’s mechanical and interior components, ensuring a blend of classic style and modern reliability.
By 1991, Railton had produced two bespoke vehicles—the burgundy F28 Fairmile and the blue F29 Claremont. Despite the promising start, financial and operational challenges led to the company’s dissolution in 2000 after Graham Pierce acquired the rights and tooling in 1994.
Railton’s revival, though brief, was a testament to the enduring appeal of classic automotive design. It successfully merged historic elegance with contemporary engineering, preserving the spirit of a beloved British brand. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or simply appreciate automotive history, Railton’s journey—from its pre-war grandeur to its late 20th-century rebirth—remains a captivating chapter in the world of automotive design and innovation.
