About Kieft
The Kieft Car Company, named after its founder Cyril Kieft, was a British racing car manufacturer that operated in the mid-20th century. Here's a brief overview of the company's history and some of their notable models:
Founding and Early Years:
Cyril Kieft, a successful businessman and former motorcycle racer, founded the Kieft Car Company in the early 1950s.
The company initially focused on building racing cars for various categories, including Formula 3.
Formula 3 Success:
Kieft gained recognition for their success in Formula 3 racing. The Kieft 1100, powered by a JAP engine, became particularly popular in this category.
Their Formula 3 cars were known for their lightweight construction and competitive performance.
Kieft 500:
One of the notable road cars produced by Kieft was the Kieft 500.
The Kieft 500 was a small sports car with a fiberglass body and a Coventry Climax engine.
It was designed to be an affordable and lightweight road-going vehicle.
Decline:
Despite their success in racing, Kieft faced financial difficulties, leading to the closure of the company in the late 1950s.
The company's focus on small-scale production and financial challenges contributed to its decline.
Legacy:
Kieft cars, especially their Formula 3 racing models, are remembered for their contribution to motorsport during the 1950s.
The Kieft 500 is a rare and collectible classic car, appreciated for its unique design and historical significance.
While the Kieft Car Company had a relatively short-lived existence, its impact on the racing scene, particularly in Formula 3, is notable. The combination of Cyril Kieft's racing background and the company's innovative designs left a lasting legacy in motorsport history.