ABOVE & LEFT: Many components, including complete Memini carbs for the Alfa Romeo 6C engines, can be produced from scratch, with details perfect in every way
ABOVE: A rare sight indeed – three brand-new �C�������ngin���a�aiting�fitting RIGHT: HAAS VF2 5-axis machine allows intricate machining at much higher speeds, cutting production time by at least 50 per cent
P... Providing an important supporting role is the Triple M operation,
which specialises in the production of better-than-new engine parts and ancillary components. Alongside is South Shore Coachworks, which takes care of the Vintage and Historic vehicle coachwork and fabrication, while Classics by JSWL is dedicated to the classic car owner and enthusiast.
When he started the business, Jim was clearly well ahead of his time, in the years before classic cars had not only become become collectibles for billionaires, but also highly appreciating assets – in some cases valued at seven and eight�figure prices�
Which makes it particularly fortuitous that he began specialising in the Alfa
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�omeo 6� and 8�, with its straight�six 1750 cc engine and bigger capacity straight�eight engines configured for road and competition. With a heritage including �n�o Ferrari�s �edgling Scuderia, as well as the works Alfa team, its combination of scarcity and history meant that it was destined to become one of the most sought-after vintage cars in the world.
With such high values attributed to these cars, but with some owners who still want to drive and in some cases race them, the original engine and drivetrain with all the original matching numbers become too precious to risk. This is where JSW can manufacture a complete replacement engine, gearbox and axles to the exact specification,
correct in every tiny detail, so that the original components can be removed and kept in safe storage.
These engines can be produced either to completely standard 1752 cc specification, producing 12� hp � 181 Nm, or uprated to 1�18 cc, along with uprated supercharger, larger valves and high-lift camshaft, which is good for 162 hp and 234 Nm. The power and torque curves achieved on the dyno test have to be seen to be believed, with a steep linear power curve and a torque trace more like a broad plateau all the way from 2000 rpm up past 5000 rpm.
The same principles used in the recreation of the Alfa Romeo 6C and 8� can of course be applied to great many other classic cars. In many cases