The Spirit of the Razor

The original 1926 Panhard Razor was built for one thing—speed. With its streamlined body, aviation-inspired design, and lightweight construction, it was a rolling science experiment pushing the limits of its time. Dan Webb, a master of reinterpreting historic race cars with a modern twist, has taken up the challenge of recreating the Razor with a level of precision and ingenuity that’s nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Debut at the Grand National Roadster

The excitement reached fever pitch when the new chassis made its public debut at the 2025 Grand National Roadster. For the first time, enthusiasts and industry insiders got a glimpse of Webb’s modern marvel, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most talked-about projects in vintage racing circles. The Roadster show provided the perfect backdrop for unveiling a chassis that honors its storied past while embracing future-forward engineering.

The Chassis: A Masterpiece in Metal

Webb’s build starts with the foundation—an expertly crafted chassis that serves as the backbone for this modernized take on the Razor. Staying true to period aesthetics while incorporating modern machining techniques, Webb and his team have fabricated an exceptional framework engineered for both performance and authenticity.

A key feature of this build is the recreation of the Razor’s unique parallel leaf spring suspension system, running seamlessly within the frame rails. This setup not only maintains the low-slung stance of the original but also enhances its handling characteristics. When it comes to blending history with modern precision, few can execute like Webb.

Engineering a One-of-a-Kind Steering System

Then there’s the steering system—easily the most unique and talked-about element of the build. In the original Razor, the driver placed their legs through the oversized steering wheel, making it one of the most unusual designs ever seen in a race car. Webb, staying true to the spirit of the original, collaborated with experts to develop a steering system that redefines precision and innovation.

A 3D-printed mockup of the steering system was first created in Fusion, allowing for meticulous testing before committing to machined components. The system uses a roller pinion setup instead of a traditional spur geartrain, which minimizes gear lash and delivers ultra-smooth operation. To refine the steering geometry, a custom reducer gearbox was designed to mount the pinion system while directing the steering shaft at the optimal angle. The result? A perfectly engineered system that remains faithful to the original’s unconventional layout while delivering modern reliability.

Machining Perfection: The Details Matter

No project of this caliber would be complete without world-class machining, and Webb’s build is no exception. Starting with a cast Miller 91 center section, Mark Lingua precisely machined all internals and axles. The axle tubes and rear hubs were then crafted by Mike Curtis of Curtis Speed, ensuring both strength and period-correct aesthetics.

The wheels, a defining feature of any vintage race car, were meticulously recreated to match the original Razor’s design. Mike Curtis again stepped up to the challenge, machining custom wheels and hubs that capture the look and feel of the 1926 originals while offering the precision of modern manufacturing.

A Collaboration of Masters

Webb’s projects are never a one-man show, and this Razor remake is no exception. The build has brought together some of the best talents in the industry, each contributing their expertise to bring this legend back to life. Craig Naff has fabricated custom copper tanks to complement a V-shaped, chevron-pattern radiator core by Brassworks. Chris Schlaff, a true artist in his own right, has created bespoke, one-off gauges to perfectly pair with the machined steering system. Every component, down to the smallest detail, has been handcrafted with purpose and precision.

The Future of the Razor

While the build is still in progress, anticipation is high. The debut at the 2025 Grand National Roadster not only marked the first public viewing of this extraordinary chassis but also set the stage for its eventual transformation into a full-scale racing legend. This project isn’t just about recreating a historic car—it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible when vintage inspiration meets modern-day craftsmanship.

Once finished, this machine is sure to take the automotive world by storm, just like the original did nearly a century ago. We can’t wait to see it in action.