The sports Gordano was an entirely new venture post war, and was the result of many years' hard work by those fine engineers, R. D. Caesar, the late Walter Watkins, and Robin Jackson. Caesar was known for many years prior to the was as a builder of very potent specials, whilst the reputation of Robin Jackson was best knwon as a designer-tuner primarily interested in racing. Joe Fry (Freikaiserwagen fame) also joined the concern, and the three enthusiasts collaborated to produce a sporting vehicle they hoped would be better than any other yet manufactured.
By 1947 the concern was not completely satisfied with the design, and consequently certain modifications were deemed to be necessary before the production cars would be made available. The aim was to produce a car that could be used for every type of event, including stripping for racing, and also as an everyday high-speed touring car. A high standard of reliability was sought, so that the private owner would not require continually to keep tinkering with the machine in order to maintain its tune. Independent suspension was featured, whilst the car handled like a Grand Prix racing job. According to press reports of the time, one or two different types of power unit were tried.
The Gordano was to be offered in 1100-c.c. and 1500-c.c. form, and supercharged versions were to be available. No fancy coachwork would be provided, as the sponsors were concentrating on ultralight bodywork in the true vintage tradition. It was said that motoring enthusiasts all over England were eagerly awaiting the appearance of the Gordano in competitions - but it appears they were to be disappointed. Only one prototype was shown; Whether later specimens were built is not known. |
