Description
HERE is my 1963 Singer Gazelle Series V 1600cc which is oh so pretty and has a full MoT until October 2021.
Secondly, her speedo reads 27, 000 miles which could very well be correct as she appears to have been dry stored for some time prior to 2003 when the engine was removed and totally rebuilt. Also, which quite probably backs this up, when the previous owner purchased her two years ago, the original factory fitted heavy duty plastic seat covers (that's what some manufacturers did in the 60s) were still on the car. Yellow and brittle they may have been, but what was revealed beneath them was seats in a practically brand new condition.
I am told that the only reason the engine was removed for a rebuild was because the owner at the time heard a sound from the camshaft that he did not like. So, attacking the job big time, he had a full rebuild including unleaded head, re-bore, pistons, camshaft, followers, crank regrind, valves, guides, springs, water pump, carb rebuild, starting ring, main bearings, big end bearings, thrust bearings, sump set, timing chain, oil seals etc. I have listed that lot as there are receipts for all parts in the car's history file.
Body-wise, she appears to be really straight and strong and looks to be in super order underneath. She has been painted in her original colour at some stage and there are small paint imperfections showing. However, none of this detracts from the fact that here we have a Gazelle 1600cc that looks delightful and drives and handles like a new car. I was out in it this morning and if someone had told me that I had been driving a 1725cc Rootes Group car, then I would have believed them!
Yet another huge plus is the fact the front wings are steel (so many of these Gazelles, Minxes and Rapiers now have GRP panels) and that they do not have the usual rot problems at the bottoms of the A posts. Very unusual and probably another pointer towards the car's usage and therefore mileage being correct.
The previous owner had intended to replace the door card with new boards and he has fitted one already to the rear offside. The materials are in the boot to complete the job and the original blue vinyl covers will just slot back on.
All in all, a lovely Gazelle series V which is not to be missed.
This is a classic car. It is 57-years-old. Please do not attempt to compare or measure it by a new BMW. I can provide more photos on request and am available to discuss the vehicle in more detail should you require. Doubtless it will have had repair work over the years and, like most, will probably need more in the future. If classic (antique) cars with all their quirks and problems do not put a smile on your face, then by all means go to a garage where they specialise in new and modern vehicles. They have plastic panels, engines that the driver cannot make head nor tail of when opening the bonnet and they all look pretty much the same. Live in the past; drive in the present and hang the consequences!
I accept debit cards and bank transfers. I can also assist with delivery and so please ask for a quote. the details below).
