Russell Special |
Very little is known about this early 500. Indeed, we are not absolutely sure that these pictures are of the Russell Special. WH Russell and Ron Messenger were friends from Banbury, Oxfordshire. Each built a special, known unsurprisingly as the Russell Special and Messenger Special. It is possible that the chassis were of similar design. |
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Little is known about the chassis. Despite the grille front, it was rear-engined, and featured a Morgan-type front suspension layout. It certainly sat very high, but we have no information about what chassis or engine lay underneath. Mr Russell made several appearances in 1949, including Brough in April & October, and the first meeting at Lulsgate on the 16th April. It is likely that he competed in other minor events and sprints, normally accompanied by Mr Messenger, and rarely with success. He returned to Silverstone for the British Grand Prix in 1949 and 1950, the latter being the last noted appearance. By 1951 he appears to have abandoned the 500 movement.
If anyone has any more details or photos please get in touch. |