Description
The Turner 950 Mk I, produced between 1959 and 1961, was a lightweight British sports car designed by the small but respected Turner Sports Cars company. Known for its nimble handling, the Turner 950 Mk I was a popular choice among enthusiasts who sought a spirited, road-going sports car with the potential for track success.
The 950 Mk I was equipped with a 948 cc inline-four engine sourced from either Austin or BMC, the same engine used in the Austin A35 and the Austin-Healey Sprite. Producing around 34-43 horsepower depending on tuning, this engine gave the Turner impressive acceleration for its weight, which was only about 1,300 pounds (590 kg). Some models were fitted with twin carburetors, which boosted performance and helped the car reach top speeds around 80-85 mph (130-137 km/h). The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, delivering smooth shifts and responsive control.
One of the key appeals of the Turner 950 Mk I was its lightweight fiberglass body, mounted on a tubular steel frame. This construction made it agile and easy to handle, allowing drivers to fully enjoy its road-hugging characteristics. With a low center of gravity, independent front suspension, and a live rear axle with leaf springs, the Turner 950 Mk I handled tight corners with precision. The compact design made it ideal for winding roads and also allowed it to excel in club-level racing events, where it competed successfully against similar small-displacement sports cars of the era.
The Turner 950 Mk I featured a simple but sporty design, with minimalistic styling that kept the car light and functional. It had an open two-seater layout, often with removable side windows and a folding soft top. Inside, the car had a straightforward dashboard with essential gauges and controls, creating a driver-focused cockpit without unnecessary frills.
Today, the Turner 950 Mk I is a cherished classic, valued by collectors and vintage racing enthusiasts for its handling, performance, and distinctive British sports car charm. Its simplicity and rarity make it a notable example of the creative and engineering spirit of small-scale British carmakers in the mid-20th century.