1954 Swallow Doretti

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

“Power graced by elegance!” is what the Swallow Coachbuilding Company of Walsall, England, called their sports car.  Created by a division of Swallow Side Car Company (which became Jaguar Cars), the Swallow Doretti was produced between 1954 and 1955. Designed by Frank Rainbow, the Doretti included a double-skinned body with an aluminum outer layer. Below was a custom chrome-moly tube frame using Triumph TR2 mechanicals, including the TR2’s inline-four engine and a four-speed manual transmission, with an optional overdrive.  

The Doretti was intended primarily for the US market, offering a more refined alternative to existing two-seaters, and was distributed by the Standard-Triumph Motor Company. Its name, "Doretti," was derived from Dorothy Deen, who managed the Western US distributorship. It was an impressive package for $3295.00, and many competed successfully. 

Despite its promising start, production of the Doretti was short-lived, ending in 1955 after only 276 units were made. Times were changing quickly, and rapid manufacturing processes were defeating many of the British “cottage industry” methods used to build the Doretti. Today, total number of survivors is uncertain though it is believed over 100 remain, making the Swallow Doretti an exceedingly rare and cherished classic British motorcar.  

Highlights 

• One of just 276 produced, reasonable confirmation of over 100 remaining 

• Offered from 36 years of ownership 

• May have raced at Road America and other Midwest tracks and rallies in the 1950s 

• Intended to be a restoration project that was not begun 

• 1.9-liter inline Standard inline-four engine 

• Four-speed manual transmission 

Features 

• Chassis made from strong Reynolds 531 manganese-molybdenum steel 

• Light but sturdy aluminum alloy body 

• Near-perfect 52/48 weight distribution 

• Common Standard Triumph drivetrain 

• Comfortable upholstered and carpeted interior 

• Leather-covered instrument panel with dials of uniform size 

• Wool-lined, easy-to-erect convertible top  

Known Imperfections 

• This Swallow Doretti is a solid foundation for a restoration. Sport and Specialty in Durand, Illinois, drained the fuel and cleaned the lines, changed the oil, drained and flushed the coolant, replaced all three flexible brake lines and bled the entire brake system. While it is not yet roadworthy, it is said to start, drive, and brake well. 

Included 

• Assorted spare parts 

• Ribbons from Road America and Illinois Valley Sports Car Club events in the 1950s 

 Ownership History  

The previous owner of 36 years purchased this solid 1955 Swallow Doretti as a restoration project, turning the task over to the renown craftsmen at Sport and Specialty in Durand, Illinois, a company “dedicated to preserving the art and fun of vintage sports cars.” Sadly, the passing of the owner has put the restoration of this rare and beautiful Swallow Doretti on hold. 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle.     Contact: Ramsey Potts   Phone: 912.508.4096   email: rpotts@hagerty.com