Launched in 1932, the Austin 10 was a saloon car designed to fill the gap between the Austin 7 and the Austin 12. Although the basic pressed steel over ladder chassis design was quite conservative, it was a massive success and numerous models were created over the years.
In 1933 the Open Road Tourer joined the range, bringing a dash of convertible style to the range. The Austin 10 remained in production until 1947, but the Tourers were only produced from 1933-1939.
First registered on 18th October 1933, this 88 year old gem has had just 5 owners. The current owner purchased it in September 2008, from its previous keeper in Poole (who had owned it since 2005).
Almost as soon as it was purchased, the current owner sent it to Available Austins in Coventry (an Austin restoration specialist) for a full check-over and recommissioning. Extensive works were undertaken to get the vehicle into the best possible condition, with the vehicle remaining with them for 6 months. Since then, it has been kept dry-stored. In fact, it has covered just 57 miles since 2010!
It is important to remember, that original parts for these vehicles are indeed sparse off the shelf. So parts were sourced where possible, however it should be known that not all (If any) of the parts used during the restoration of the vehicle are original!
As a Historic Vehicle, the car is exempt from Road Tax and MOT. Nevertheless, the owner has kept the car MOT’d to ensure it remains in top condition. The paperwork shows the current MOT runs until July 2022.
The V5 confirms the number of owners and ownership periods, while a number of letters and invoices from Available Austins outline the recommissioning work undertaken. A full service was carried out in July 2021, which is also confirmed by the paperwork.
The current owner is a member of the Austin 10 Drivers Club, with the paperwork to confirm this, so the vehicle is known within the Austin 10 community.
Inside the car is in superb condition, having been cared for and maintained beautifully. The car wears its age really well, the Oxblood leather seats and door cards being in excellent condition. The dash, dials and switchgear are all in lovely condition, having a great patina. It shows its age, but doesn’t look old.
The tailored carpets are in very good condition, they’re a ruby colour with matching leather edging. Each of the doors feature a large, pleated leather pocket, giving plenty of room for storing maps, water bottles and anything else that takes your fancy.
As part of the recommissioning, a smaller period steering wheel was fitted – a practical upgrade as the original items are very large and can make ingress and egress a real issue.
One of the first things that should be noted about the exterior of the car is that it is a two-door. This makes it quite a rarity. Most two-door Austin 10s were saloon, not Tourers, and especially not four-seat Tourers. So what is initially seems to be a very rare car in fact turns out to be an extremely rare car.
You’d never believe this car was nearly 90 years old from the external condition. The scarlet and black paintwork is in lovely condition, as is all the brightwork, the fenders, bumpers and other external features. We would imagine that, at some point in its life, the body work has undergone complete renovation, or else it has been dry-stored for many years, such is the quality of the exterior.
Cars of this era really do have a style and feel all of their own. This little Austin is incredibly well built and detailed, from the lovely steel pins holding the louvred bonnets in place to the fender-mounted, period brass extinguisher and Esso fuel can - it’s a treat for the eyes from every angle. There are even vintage AA and GB badges adorning the rear and the grille. On each wing there is a traditional semaphore indicator, which work perfectly, being operating by a switch in the cabin. At the back of the car, there is an externally mounted, full-size spare wheel.
The traditional fabric convertible roof is in excellent condition, and fits well. It comes with a cover for when it is stowed, as well as a full tonneau for when the car is parked, or for if you want to reveal just the driver’s seat or just the front seats.
During the 2008/9 recommissioning process, the owner also had new period wheels fitted. The black Ross wheels feature chrome hubcaps and are fitted with modern Excelsior vintage-style tyres.
Underneath the car looks very clean and solid, with the chassis appearing to be in excellent condition.
Power is provided by the 1,141cc, 4-cylinder side-valve engine. It’s a simple, robust and characterful engine, which sounds lovey and burbly and pulls the car along nicely. You can really tell it’s been well cared for, and benefits from having been serviced recently (July 2021).
At some point, the original 6v electrical system has been upgraded to a 12v system with electric ignition. So while the front crank-start does still function perfectly well, there’s no need to risk a broken arm to get the car started. Which is nice.
The owner informs us that the car runs and rides well, stopping and handling as it should. Braking is carried out via a cable and rod system, while the suspension is comprised of half-elliptic springs and frictional dampers. It all looks to be in very good condition.
It’s perhaps unsurprising that all the mechanicals look so good, as part of the recommissioning process, a huge amount of mechanical work was undertaken. This includes:
Rebuilding both axles
Reconditioning the suspension springs
Reconditioning the wheel-hubs and braking system
Reconditioning the steering box
Fitting a new exhaust
Renovating the propshaft
Fitting a new gearbox mounting
Reconditioning the sump
In all honesty, the extent and quality of the work is clearly visible from the first viewing of the vehicle. It’s a beautifully preserved machine, and deserves to remain so.
The appeal of running a truly vintage car cannot be overstated. For anyone that loves cars, owning a piece of motoring heritage really is a dream. But, of course, the reality is that there are relatively few survivors from the early decades of the motor car, and those that have survived are already in collections or museums. And for many, the idea of buying a restoration project from this period is a terrifying idea.
That’s where this car makes so much sense. Yes, it’s very, very pretty. But the most impressive aspect of this car is how well maintained it is, how thoroughly it has been restored and cared for, and how easy it would be to own. From the simple, robust mechanicals to the wonderfully sculpted fenders and side-steps, every inch of this vehicle is delightful. We love the little sculptural touches - the pleated door pockets, the jewel-like hood ornament, the delightful brass extinguisher and Esso can mounted on the fenders. It is, quite simply, a joy.
As an 88 year old car in remarkable condition, this is already a very rare survivor. The fact that it’s a two-door, four-seat Tourer (one of the rarest Austin 10 models produced) just makes it even more desirable.
Seeing how the current owner has lavished care – and thousands of pounds – on getting it into the best possible condition, and then maintaining it, gives us real confidence in this car. We think this is one of the most joyous, life-affirming things you could possibly own. You can’t help but smile whenever you look at it. Even the colour combination is perfect: classic red and black over an Oxblood interior.
If you’ve ever had even the slightest inclination to own a pre-war vehicle, something to promenade in on a weekend, or share with others at rallies and shows, this car has to be high on your list.
Pre-war cars in this sort of condition are few and far between now, and this old girl is truly, deeply special. It is, quite simply, a magical vehicle.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1933 Austin 10 Open Road Tourer
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