Disclosure: This site may receive compensation when you click on some links and make purchases.

Thirty Year Sleep: 1959 Peerless GT

1959-peerless-gt-project

Another day, another Peerless. This is the latest Peerless GT to be aroused from its slumber, and it is far more complete than the ’58 model just featured. Although it’s been awaiting restoration for 30 years, number 145 out of 325 comes with many of its original parts. Interestingly, this right hand drive model is likely a UK-market car that made its way stateside at some point, giving this example some extra rarity. Find it here on eBay in Los Angeles, California with bidding at $3,550.

This could be an unmolested example as the seller notes the odometer is pegged at a low 32,000 miles. With original components like seating surfaces still intact, its next owner will at least have samples to work with for reproduction purposes. The Triumph TR3 drivetrain is still present and will turn over, but the seller has never attempted to start it. Such limited use likely indicates that there’s a lot of work yet to be done to get this GT back on the road.

The independent rear suspension and De Dion axle are still with the car, and it’s these components that get credit for the Peerless’ exceptional handling. This example sits quite low, so we’re guessing some suspension refreshments will be needed. While the seller says the only thing he sees missing is the door handle, we also spotted a missing grill, headlamp and fuel filler cap, not to mention the front bumpers.

Famous for its fiberglass body, this example’s shell and frame seem to have survived well despite years of neglect. However, the driver’s side fender experienced a fender bender leaving a gaping hole that will need to be addressed. The frame is said to be OK, and the Peerless comes with good glass and seats still trimmed in their original materials. Based on the photos, the dashboard is dirty but looks complete.

1959-peerless-gt-project

While we’re fairly confident that this will mark the end of the stream of Peerless projects for a while, but who knows. These cars are definitely rare and worth saving, but sometimes the hassle and cost of restoration outweighs the rewards. However, with a fiberglass shell, unique styling, and plenty of British car specialists a phone call away, this Peerless could be a fun project for a car nut with a little extra time and money on their hands.

Comments

  1. Avatar 2VT

    My brother had one of these back in the early ’70’s. We called it the Fearless, rearless, steerless Peerless GT LTD. The steering rack was so worn the steering wheel would stick wherever you left it. As far as the handling, it is to date the only sports car I ever got onto two wheel without really trying hard. The door windows could be raised or lowered by pulling (or pushing) the handle about 1/3rd a turn.

    Like 0
  2. Avatar scot c

    ~ a great pool of knowledge about fiberglass cars is
    http://www.forgottenfiberglass.com
    although much of it concerns the American industry there is a good deal of universal information, too.

    Like 0
  3. Avatar LuxMan

    I wouldn’t be so sure about this being the last for a while . . . that looks like another one parked in front in primer grey !!

    Like 0
  4. Avatar Bill

    From reading about Peerless in Sports & Exotic Cars, these cars needed several weeks of additional work when they hit the dealers floor just to make them roadworthy. Add a measure of unreliability & you have this car.

    Like 0
  5. Avatar Bob

    What’s parked in front of it? Another Peerless?

    almost looks like yesterday’s except that was supposed to be from WI and this from LA.

    Like 0
  6. Avatar snake

    From what I can find out these were horrible cars when new! Why would anyone want a vehicle that even in the day was a pile!!!!

    Like 0
  7. Avatar Foxxy

    I think the thing to do if possible is to buy both cars. The body on this one is junk, but has most of what the other one needs, like frame and running gears. Even finished they are ugly at best. jmo

    Like 0

Leave a Reply to 2VT Cancel reply

RULES: No profanity, politics, or personal attacks.

Become a member to add images to your comments.

*

Get new comment updates via email. Or subscribe without commenting.