So, you’re looking for something a little different from the usual choice of a classic car? Well, how about a steam-powered 7-seater? This is a truly extraordinary bit of engineering from the American manufacturer Stanley. 

This company was renowned for producing steam-driven vehicles in the early part of the 20th century and this one, although can be improved upon aesthetically, has had the steam engine fully rebuilt since being purchased in 2016 as a non-runner. 

A steam car can be a daunting prospect for anyone without previous experience, but never fear as there’s a devoted group of individuals to call on from the Steam Car Club of Great Britain ready to assist, including the current owner. 

If you want to be the talk of your next classic car show then this is the car for you. 

Originally imported from the US by Steam Car Guru Jeff Theobald in 2004 and then into the hands of the present owner in 2016. 

The car was at that time a non-runner so the 2-cylinder engine was completely stripped down by a specialist and rebuilt and is now in fine fettle. There is a single invoice for this build which totals £3942.00. 

There is also a large file of invoices from the current custodian that shows his constant desire to maintain and improve the Stanley. 

A copy of the original instruction manual helps bring the simplicity of operation clearer to any new owner.

The cabin of the Stanley is almost as it left the factory way back in 1919 as it possesses all the original instruments and controls. 

Below the timber dash, there have been a few modern additions just to make operation and monitoring the engine that bit easier. The odometer reads 33,000 miles but it has not been operational for some years due to having no drive cable so the actual mileage is difficult to ascertain. 

The seats are original and have not been restored. There are a couple of patches in the leather from previous repairs but that seems to add to the genuine originality. The wooden floor is in good condition as are the pop-up centre row of seats. 

All the controls have an agreeable level of patina and again re-enforces the originality of the vehicle. There is a folding hood but this is at present a frame only and would require a new fabric hood to complete the car.

The bright yellow exterior boasts all original panels and accessories. 

The large headlamps are also original and are rare in their own right. The whole body was coach-built all those years ago and the craftsmanship is obvious, particularly when closing the small doors as they have a reassuring fit and close with a satisfying ‘clunk’. 

There is some discolouration to parts of the body that is exposed to the heat and steam of the boiler and engine although much of it will polish off. The black mudguards have had a little extra paint applied where the original colour has flaked off. 

The large wooden spoked wheels are wonderful and are in great condition.

Lifting the engine cover on this car reveals an extraordinary sight. 

Instead of finding a regular vintage engine, you find a large boiler and associated steam pipework. The pistons are directly connected to the rear axle and the rest of the mechanicals are situated beneath the floor. 

It may appear a little complex at first sight but once you have an understanding of how the engine works, it becomes something of a work of art. Buying items for the car has proved to be quite economical as most of the maintenance requires plumbing experience rather than engineering. 

The electrical supply is 12volt so accepts all variations of modern accessories and lighting. The whole vehicle is particularly original and possesses a real charm and although we didn’t attempt it ourselves, we are assured it is a very simple car to drive, there are even Youtube videos of this very car that prove the point.

This is a car that certainly fits the bill of something different. It has an irresistible charm as the engine chugs gently away. 

And the real attribute is that by all accounts is an easy vehicle to drive with the simplest of controls. Don’t let all those pipes and valves put you off because it needs the merest amount of steam knowledge and there will be plenty of enthusiasts who will set you straight with anything you could possibly need. 

Buying into a steam car means buying into a like-minded community that is more than happy to help. 

We are all being told to turn our backs on petrol and diesel engines so why not give steam a try instead? You’d certainly generate a crowd at the next classic show. 

As a bonus, it’s worth knowing that the car will come with its special ignition key – a butane blow-lamp!