Beschreibung
We’re delighted to present this charming little Austin Seven C Cab 2/ 5 cwt van which is the earliest we’ve ever offered for sale. First registered in February 1929, we believe this was a 1928 produced chassis sent for external coachbuilding.
The Austin Motor company contracted the body construction for their van offering to Birmingham dealers and coachbuilders Thomas Startin beginning in October 1923. Completely restored many years ago the little van has some interesting early features like magneto ignition, scuttle-mounted front lamps and a deep-dished steering wheel. It also benefits from some useful upgrades such as the later Austin Seven four speed gearbox and a period oil pressure gauge.
Unlike a show standard exhibit, the van looks very authentic with plenty of paint chips, marks and minor imperfections - a lovely patina looking like a vehicle that would have been still working for its living during the second World War. On the road, it is an absolute poppet with a willing engine, positive brakes and has no unusual whines or rattles. It was very comfortable at 35mph two-up on its first run our for some time. Rarer now than an early saloon or Chummy, this super little van is ready for the classic show scene, or as a hugely interesting promotional van for a business.
