I'm guessing there is more than one Slotblogger who had this iconic Corgi toy as a child:
On December 1, the full-size one-and-only Ecurie Ecosse 1959 Commer double-deck transporter, plus seven Ecurie Ecosse race cars, will go under the hammer at Bonham's London sale. Most commentators feel the bidding will be fierce, and that the transporter will sell for serious money.
This unique transporter can carry three race cars (two on top and one in the rear) and features a workshop section as well as sleeping quarters for the crew. It is powered by a Commer TS3 three-cylinder two-stroke diesel engine which uses a unique horizontally opposed six-piston, single crankshaft design displacing 3.3 liters (200 cubic inches). Power is a minimal 105 HP, but with a very impressive 270 pound-feet of torque. The unorthodox design was used for space reasons, and allowed the engine to be mounted underneath the truck's cab. (Animation of this engine in operation can be seen HERE.) The distinctive engine sound of this engine resulted in Commer vehicles equipped with it being universally refrred to as "Knockers".
But is is very doubtful that the price paid for the transporter will exceed the auction prices of most, if not all, of the Ecurie Ecosse team race cars also in the sale. All six of them are genuine Ecurie Ecosse team cars with significant racing provenance. Here's the list:
1952 Jaguar XK120 roadster
1953 Jaguar C-Type
1956 Jaguar D-Type short-nose without fin
1959 Tojeiro-Jaguar
1960 Cooper T49 Monaco
1961 Austin-Healey "Sebring" Sprite
