Talbot 95
| Company type | Automobile manufacturer |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founder | Georges Roesch (engineer) |
| Fate | Acquired by Rootes Group in 1935 |
Area served | United Kingdom |
Key people | Georges Roesch (engineer) |
| Products | Automobiles, including Talbot 105 sports car |
The Talbot 105 was a powerful sports automobile crafted by Talbot's engineer Georges Roesch. It earned a reputation as one of the swiftest four-seater cars competing at Brooklands.
History
The Talbot 75 originated from the earlier 14-45 model, its name reflecting both its tax rating and actual horsepower. Featuring a six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1,666 cc, this powerplant formed the foundation for all Talbot engines up until the Rootes Group acquisition in 1935.
Engine size was gradually increased by boring out the cylinders, while the original block dimensions of the 14-45 remained mostly consistent until the introduction of the revised block in the 18-70 model, which featured evenly spaced bores. A distinct engine block was later developed for the subsequent 105 model.
At the 1930 London Motor Show, Talbot unveiled the 18-70, equipped with an enlarged bore and stroke that produced a 2,276 cc engine. This vehicle later became known as the Talbot 70 or 75. Enhancements such as higher compression ratios and a larger Zenith carburettor gave rise to the more potent Talbot 90, which achieved significant success in Grand Prix racing, securing third place behind Speed Six Bentleys in the 1931 Brooklands 500.
Further enlargement of engine capacity—while maintaining similar block dimensions—resulted in the celebrated Talbot 105, boasting a displacement of 2,969 cc. In 1931, four specially tuned 105 models generated approximately 119 bhp at 4,800 rpm; versions configured for "Brooklands trim" claimed up to 125 bhp with a compression ratio of 10:1.
Talbot established a strong presence in motorsport, particularly at Brooklands in Surrey. Although official factory racing efforts ceased in 1932, dealer Warwick Wright managed a team of three Talbot 105s that year. Additionally, other dealers and private enthusiasts continued campaigning Talbots in competition until at least 1938.