The Falcon 515 - a forgotten British Gran Tourismo
10/12/2012
In 1956, Peter Pellandine founded Falcon Shells after amicably parting company with his partner Keith Waddington and Ashley Laminates, a manufacturer of plastic bodies and chassis constructions.
Falcon subsequently built several models, which were initially still heavily based on the Ashley bodies. Later, the Caribbean, Bermuda and Peregrine models were added as independent and sometimes quite successful models.
In 1963, the Falcon 515 (see picture above and in the archive) was presented at the London Motor Show, which impressed with its body line designed by Tom Rohonyi and influenced by the Ferrari 400 Superfast.
Although participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans was rejected by the ACO, a number of sporting successes were nevertheless achieved. After only 25 vehicles, however, Pellandine had to capitulate and close the company due to insufficient sales success.
