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Unveiled at the 1934 Motor Show, the Mark
II was in effect an improved Le Mans model. The 1½ litre
engine could now produce 73bhp, the chassis was somewhat
stiffer and the road holding was also improved. Again
two chassis lengths were available, long for saloons,
tourers and drophead coupes, short for 2 and 2/4 seater
sports cars. The short chassis from the Mark II together
with a modified engine and lightweight 2 seater body was
used as Team cars and ultimately became the Ulster.
The distinctive and easily identifiable
feature of the Mark II are the thermostatically
controlled radiator shutters. Cycle type front winds
were retained which still turned with the steering. The
folded hood was again moved outside the body - not so
good looking perhaps but it was more roomy for the rear
seat passengers.
Ulster
After the success of the Team Cars in the 1934 Ulster
TT, Aston Martin made replicas available for the public to buy. With a
lightweight two seater body and with the engine tuned to produce 85 bhp,
they were guaranteed to reach 100 mph. The low, sleek, narrow body was
fitted with a boat shaped tail to house the spare tyre. All this for just
£750 - which was actually a large amount of money in 1934, especially for
a car with only a 1.5 litre engine. 21 Ulsters were built in total and it
is believed that every single car is still in existence.
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