Since its foundation 16 years ago by former historic racing champion Nigel Hulme, Le Mans Coupes Ltd has sold almost 50 Superformance GT40s.as well as numerous Shelby CSX9000 Series Daytona Cobra Coupes and Hi-Tech MKII and Superformance MKIII Cobra roadsters.
Now, with a view to increasing its throughput of these sought-after models and adding complementary new products to its list of offerings, the company has been investing in its premises and expertise, and created a suitably eye-catching new corporate identity.
Added resource
Ideally situated in a parkland site just minutes from the M23 motorway and Gatwick international airport, Le Mans Coupes has always benefited from a well-equipped workshop for the final assembly and servicing of its products. Now a purpose-built showroom is under construction to better display these mouth-watering items, while Nigel’s 34-year-old son Oliver has been appointed Head of Sales and Marketing.
A former business owner in his own right, Oliver has a background in motorsport and track days, as well as the social media platforms he considers vital to the promotion of the growing company. He has also been the driver behind the enticing new website – www.lemanscoupes.com. Remarked Oliver: “I have grown up around Le Mans Coupes and always wanted to be an integral part of the company. As modern cars become ever more sterile, I believe the true enthusiasts will continue to gravitate in increasing numbers to the exciting types of vehicle we specialise in, and am very much looking forward to helping expand the already successful business my father has created.”
Products to set the pulse racing
The current offerings from Le Mans Coupes include:
These are available as per the original Ford MKI and MKII cars, and are genuine continuation models that carry P/2000 Series chassis numbers recognised by the Shelby American World Registry. Over 85% of the parts are interchangeable with those of the original cars. FIA HTP compliant toolroom copies are also available. Choice of Ford or Roush engines from 400-560bhp. Prices from £134,166 plus VAT.
A direct development of the 1965 championship-winning coupes courtesy of their original designers, Pete Brock and Bob Negstad. Sanctioned by the late Carroll Shelby and subsequently adopted as an official Shelby product. The latest version benefits from improved gearbox and suspension, greater interior space, side-mounted stainless steel exhausts and 15” or 18” Shelby race-style wheels. Choice of 530bhp Roush-built Ford engine or 430-520bhp GM LS3 unit. Prices from £131,166 plus VAT.
Perfect recreations of the original 1960s cars, clothed in very high quality glass fibre bodies. Prices from £79,166 plus VAT for the MKII and £70,500 plus VAT for the MKIII.
Said Nigel Hulme, Le Mans Coupes’ Managing Director: “The current value of original Cobras and GT40s has put them way beyond the pockets of most enthusiasts, yet interest in them is growing rather than fading. The products we offer allow people to live the dream at a (relatively) affordable price.”
Top, L to R: Superformance GT40 and Shelby Daytona Cobra CSX9000 Series.
Bottom, L to R: Superformance MKIII Cobra and Hi-Tech MKII Cobra