Highlights
- Wider body model with cowled radiator and projecting boot
- Part of a private collection
- Lovely condition throughout
The Appeal
Created as Austin’s solution to the ever-increasing demands for family cars in the lower price bracket, the public demands were answered in 1932 by the introduction of the Austin 10, and it soon became the brand's best-seller. Designed for the era, the 10s saloon was capable of travelling in comfort at 50 mph with acceptable fuel economy and space for 4 adults. The range soon expanded, with continuous developments culminating in the facelift saloon, which was renamed the 10 Lichfield in 1934. The Lichfield included a boot to house the spare wheel, cowled radiator, dual wipers, hydraulic dampers, synchromesh in the two top gears and 12-volt electrics.
This well-presented 1935 Lichfield 4-door saloon has seen some level of restoration in the past, with several provisions for improved modern use, including bulb indicators and an electric fuel pump installation. It has a handful of recent MOTs with just 92 miles covered since the last one was issued in 2015. The Austin is part of an impressive private collection and, having recently been taken for a jaunt, it's performing very admirably.
The History and Paperwork
- Current V5c
- MOT and tax-exempt
- MOTs back to 2003, the last one was issued in 2015
- Just 92 miles covered since the last MOT
- Recent invoices for battery and electric fuel pump
- Part of a private collection in dry storage
- No clues on its past, but the dashboard plaque suggests it was sold by an Oxford garage
The Interior
- Brown leatherette seating in very good condition with some loose piping noted on driver's seat
- Headlining and door lining fabric are in excellent shape
- Wooden facia intact with a good gloss
- Dials are all legible and said to function
- The steering wheel will need renovation
- Carpets appear unworn
The Exterior
- Solid chassis and floorpan
- No discernible damage or corrosion on the exterior panels
- Doors open and close easily with no sagging hinges
- Close inspection revealed micro blisters to the paintwork, though this appears strictly surface level
- Minor chips noted around bonnet vents
- Black wings have good paint coverage
- The chrome work in very good condition
- Indicators fitted
- Trim, running boards and beading in good shape, with no significant flaws
- Glass intact with good door seals
- Decent Lucas tyres with well-presented spoked wheels
The Mechanics
- It has been started and run in the last few months, with no significant issues observed
- May need a light mechanical check-over before prolonged use
- New battery
- An electric fuel pump has been installed
- The electrical system appears intact
- Four-speed gearbox with synchromesh said to select with ease
- Brakes are said to be free from issues
- The owner reports that no knocks were noted when the car is on the move
- Suspension components appear to be in solid condition with very little signs of age
- The stainless exhaust appears to be in near-new condition
Summary
For a car approaching 90 years old, plenty of good quality restoration and mechanical care is clear to see. There are very few changes required to bring it up to show-queen condition, culminating in a very solid and usable piece of motoring history.
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