Lea-Francis 14 HP Sports Cowell Special (1946)

An Exceptionally Rare British Post-War Sports Car – The 1946 Lea-Francis 14 HP Sports Cowell Special

Few British automobile manufacturers combined technical sophistication, craftsmanship and sporting pedigree as convincingly as Lea-Francis. Founded in Coventry in 1895, the company established itself during the 1920s and 1930s as a respected producer of high-quality motor cars and successful competition machines. Following the Second World War, Lea-Francis was among the first British manufacturers to resume production, building upon its distinguished pre-war heritage. The 14 HP model provided the technical foundation for some of Britain's most exclusive post-war sports cars.

Occupying a very special place within the marque's history is the Lea-Francis 14 HP Sports Cowell Special. This remarkable automobile was built on a shortened 14 HP chassis and developed by Cowell & Watson as the prototype for a planned limited production series. The elegant bodywork was designed by the young Denis Jenkinson, who would only a few years later make motorsport history as Stirling Moss's navigator during their legendary victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia. The intended production programme, however, never materialised. According to current research, only two examples were ever completed, making the Cowell Special one of the rarest British sports cars of the post-war era.

Beneath the long bonnet lies Lea-Francis' characteristic 1,767 cc inline four-cylinder engine. Even by the standards of the late 1940s, its design was considered technically advanced, earning praise for its smoothness, flexibility and reliability. In Cowell Special specification, the engine develops approximately 90 horsepower, endowing the lightweight roadster—tipping the scales at only around 900 kilograms—with remarkably spirited performance. Contemporary reports quoted a top speed of up to 170 km/h, an extraordinary figure for a British sports car of the immediate post-war period. Combined with a precise four-speed manual gearbox, the Lea-Francis offers an authentic and surprisingly dynamic driving experience that continues to impress today.

The example offered here is presented in a classic dark green finish, complemented by a beautifully appointed brown leather interior. This traditional colour combination perfectly enhances the flowing lines of the hand-crafted bodywork and underlines the elegant character of this extraordinary roadster. The car presents in outstanding overall condition, reflecting many years of knowledgeable care and meticulous preservation. It is immediately apparent that this exceptional motor car has always been maintained with the greatest attention and respect.

The sale includes an extensive history file comprising period documentation, invoices and the original Lea-Francis owner's handbook. Particularly noteworthy are the accompanying FIVA Identity Card and Swiss Veteran Vehicle registration, both of which further confirm the car's authenticity and exceptional historical significance. Thanks to its comprehensively documented provenance and outstanding state of preservation, this Cowell Special represents a collector's motor car of the highest calibre.

While celebrated British sports car marques such as Jaguar, MG and Aston Martin enjoy worldwide recognition, automobiles such as the Lea-Francis Cowell Special remain true discoveries for discerning collectors and connoisseurs. Its almost unparalleled rarity, its direct connection with Denis Jenkinson and its hand-built coachwork give it a unique place in the history of the British motor industry.

With only two examples ever built, the Lea-Francis 14 HP Sports Cowell Special ranks among the most exclusive British post-war sports cars in existence. Its fascinating history, technical individuality and extraordinary rarity make it an automotive masterpiece of genuine international collector interest. Combined with its exceptional state of preservation, comprehensive documentation and accompanying FIVA Identity Card, this remarkable motor car presents an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire what is, in every respect, an almost unique piece of British automotive history.