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The Claydon Hamilton SS4
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The Super Sport 4 was a 2+2 coupe based on Ford Sierra mechanicals offered by Claydon Hamilton Automotive Design (CHAD) in 1995. It was designed by Tony Claydon, who is probably best known for his work with Candy Apple Cars on the "Finale", a popular conversion kit for the Pontiac Fiero. The "family resemblance" is easy to see.
The SS4 was built on a triangulated steel box section chassis with large section out-riggers, plus front and rear door posts.
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - General Arrangement |
The doors also had steel frames and braced box section structures within them and a steel rollcage completed the robust structure.
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - Rear 3/4 view |
Because of its, at the time, modern Ford donor it boasted 4-wheel independent suspension and disc brakes at all corners. It was designed to accommodate parts from any Sierra, including 4wd and Cosworth versions.
The body was definitely a fine distillation of the time period it originated in, with a nod to both Asian and European inspirations in its design. Aerodynamics were definitely a consideration and its various vents and intakes were included for cooling as well as directing airflow.
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - Interior |
The car was quite practical, having large doors for entry/egress, an ample trunk, and spacious seating in the front and back. The very open greenhouse gave the driver excellent visibility. Overall, it was a car designed for 'real world' use as an owner's daily driver.
However, despite being very practical and having attractive styling, only 3 were made. The project as put up for sale in 2015, according to Complete Kitcar Magazine. At this writing its fate is unclear.
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - Front 3/4 view |
RCC has come into possession of more pictures of this elusive car. Between all commonly available sources, there may be a dozen total pictures of the SS4, maybe less, on the internet. However, a former owner David Redman was kind enough to provide quite a few never before seen pictures including detail of the engine bay, boot, and interior. Needless to say, this is exciting!
The car pictured is one of two running prototypes, finished in red, with a bespoke black interior.
So, a big thank you to David!
Sources:
Claydon Hamilton Automotive Design c/o Tony Claydon (via brochure your author was sent in the late '90s)
David Redman (via Facebook)
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - rear 3/4 view |
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The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - engine bay
- courtesy of David Redman |
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The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - trunk
- courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - courtesy of David Redman |
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| The Claydon Hamilton SS4 - Advertisement |
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The Claydon Hamilton SS4 -
Magazine Article in "Which Kit?" |
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The Claydon Hamilton SS4 -
Cover story in "Which Kit?" |
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Claydon Hamilton SS4 - doorcards
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| Claydon Hamilton SS4 - interior |
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| Candy Apple Cars Finale, also designed by Tony Claydon. |
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