The off-the-radar classic specialist

It’s funny how the classic world is full of high-profile businesses and when it comes to dealers and restorers some names will always spring to mind.

But let’s be honest, there are plenty of other businesses – the good guys – who are getting on with the job, producing high-quality restoration work and maybe some sensible upgrades too. The difference is they simply don’t court publicity.

And that’s the case with Coventry’s Clayton Classics, whose restoration work and air-conditioning upgrades up the game in the British classic car scene.

To some the name Clayton will be familiar: in the 1950s Clayton, in its original form, offered aftermarket heating and ventilation systems for cars, and its Land Rover offering established the Midlands-based business. Today it offers systems for buses but it’s also developed air-conditioning systems for classics, a move that makes older cars more usable and more comfortable.

The air-conditioning systems are bespoke to individual models: the idea of a one-size-fits-all isn’t the philosophy here. Original parts and tooling are used, combined with the efficiency of the latest heating and ventilation units. More than 500 systems have been sent around the world and 100 fitted at Clayton’s premises, with 30 vehicle marques being covered.

In 2002 the Clayton Classics side was started and everything from service and maintenance to full-on restorations are carried out. And while Clayton Classics can produce a concours-winning classic, there’s a greater desire to create a car that can be driven and enjoyed on a regular basis, no matter how long the journey.

The term ‘usability’ best applies to a Clayton restoration. While no stone is left unturned in building a car that best meets a customer’s needs, useful upgrades to enhance regular use are often incorporated. Fitting more modern engines might be step too far, because that can all too easily erase  a vital part of the car’s character, but giving it useful tweaks are entirely acceptable.

When The Special dropped in several E-types were being worked on, with some enjoying a re-trim or a full-on service, while others had recently seen a full restoration completed. But it wasn’t just E-Types: an MGB GT V8 was in for work, as was a late ‘big’ Healey and a 1930s Daimler.

With its can-do attitude – and looking at the work it does – it’s easy to see why Clayton is successful. What’s more intriguing is why it’s not better known.