The Wolfrace Sonic is a rare and audacious chapter in British automotive showmanship conceived not just as an alloy wheel but as a full-blown promotional concept car. In the early 1980s, Wolfrace needed something that would grab attention: a vehicle that embodied what the company stood for, innovation, flair, and the bold design spirit of the time. The result was the Sonic, a six-wheeled super-concept built to showcase the new 'Sonic' wheel design. Designed by Nick Butler (former aircraft engineer), it featured twin Rover V8 engines, a space-frame chassis with Jaguar running gear, dramatic styling (think wedges, dramatic proportions, the kind of futurism the eighties craved) all to put the Sonic alloys in the spotlight. Its appearance in motor shows and press created buzz: this wasn't just a wheel; it was a statement.

The project was commissioned in 1981 by Barry Treacy, the owner/MD of Wolfrace. Initial quote for the build was about £29,000, but final cost ballooned to around £75,000, however other sources say £100,000 was more accurate because of the complexity. The car featured at motor shows, press events, etc. to generate publicity. In the 1990s Wolfrace sold Sonic to a private collector. It also featured in events such as opening of the British Grand Prix and was repainted and photographed. At one point in 2010, it was reportedly offered for sale at about £1 million.

Although stunning in concept, it was also road-legal, bearing a UK registration (YNK 135X) a sign that Wolfrace wanted legitimacy, not just spectacle. Over time, the car vanished from public view, and the example offered in recent years needed major restoration; its rarity and wild engineering have made it something of a legend among enthusiasts.

The legend that is the six wheels Sonic was purchased by our vendor requiring restoration, upon inspection he decided that the best course of action was a full nut and bolt scheme for which he would enlist the services of a restoration specialist Trevor Farrington. Naturally the complexities of a 'one off' made this project a unique undertaking but initially the plan was to have this restored to a 'better than new' standard. Fast forward to 2025 and 90% functionally but no visually complete, over £100,000 invested our vendor can no longer complete the final push and did not want to shorten the quality at the last thus has decided to offer the car as is, requiring finishing and he recommends with Trevor Farrington however the new owner may of course have their own plan. FURTHER DETAILS TO FOLLOW Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Guide price £80,000-£120,000

View the Wolfrace Sonic's history here on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b93UcEf4TQ

Lot details
Year: 1981
Make: Wolfrace
Model: Sonic
Registration: YNK 135X
Chassis No: RV16P5A181

Full description and photos to follow

* Six wheels and twin Rover V8 engines
* Built by Wolfrace to showcase a 'Sonic' wheel design
* One off concept car with significant provenance