Hartwell’s expanding interests

Officially known by the family trading name George Hartwell, the Bournemouth-based company have started to widen their interests outside the exclusive marketing and conversion of Chrysler products. Parts Merchandising Manager Barry Green still finds time for Team Hartwell’s race and road preparation business promoted by Ray Payne in their 998-c.c. Sunbeam Imp, but he recently showed us a new accessory shop which Hartwell have open on the main premises; inside we found the first prototype cylinder heads modified for the British Leyland Mini, the S-variant and 11/1300s. Prices have yet to be finalised, but it seems quite certain that the Hartwell name may well be associated with all manner of cars which go faster than their makers intended. During the past year or so the parent company have acquired a Ford dealership to replace a Chrysler agency, and the dealership is a registered Ford Rally sport dealer.

However, there is no definite plan to market Ford parts, and it was strongly emphasised that the Chrysler products are still the commodity so far as Team Hartwell are concerned, and for the Bournemouth showrooms, which now boast a built-in coffee lounge for perspective clients to relax in.