Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Fairthorpe Electron Minor Mk2 (1961-73)
The Fairthorpe Electron Minor Mk2, introduced in **1961**, was designed as an **affordable, lightweight British sports car**, building on the success of the original **Electron Minor**. It featured a **wider ladder chassis**, improving handling and stability, and was powered by a **Triumph Spitfire engine**, later upgraded with **front disc brakes** in **1966**.
Fairthorpe expected the Electron Minor Mk2 to appeal to **enthusiasts and budget-conscious drivers**, offering a **fiberglass-bodied alternative** to mainstream sports cars like the **MG Midget** and **Triumph Spitfire**. Its availability in **kit form** allowed buyers to assemble their own cars, further enhancing its appeal.
With a total production run of approximately **700 units**, the Electron Minor Mk2 became Fairthorpe’s **mainstay model**, remaining in production until **1973**. Though it wasn’t a mass-market success, it carved out a niche among those who valued **individuality, lightweight performance, and hands-on involvement** in their vehicles. Today, it remains a **rare and collectible classic**, appreciated for its **quirky design and driving experience**.
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Fairthorpe TX-GT (1965-69)
The Fairthorpe TX-GT, introduced in **1965**, was designed as a **lightweight, high-performance British sports car**, offering a unique alternative to mainstream models. Built on a **tubular chassis**, it featured a **fiberglass fastback body**, making it both aerodynamic and lightweight.
Fairthorpe expected the TX-GT to appeal to **enthusiasts seeking individuality**, blending **Triumph GT6 running gear** with an **innovative transverse-rod independent rear suspension** for improved handling. Available with **2.0-litre and 2.5-litre Triumph engines**, it promised spirited performance, with the **TX-SS variant** featuring fuel injection for added power.
Despite its **advanced engineering and distinctive styling**, the TX-GT remained a **low-volume specialist car**, with only around **50 units** produced. While it didn’t achieve mass-market success, it remains a **rare and collectible classic**, valued for its **quirky design and engineering innovations**.
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