Beschreibung
This lovely AC Empire roadster is a very useable 1920s car and a nice change from all the Austin 7s around, more than capable with a cruising speed of 40-50mph and top speed of 60 (it was advertised as a mile a minute car!), its VSCC eligible and has the appropriate eligibility documents and a unique and capable alternative to an Austin 7.
Being the Empire model the person who ordered this car obviously fell in love with its free reving 4 cyl engine as they ordered all the extras, such as a dicky seat, and full weather protection which makes its very useable.
This car has a great history, retaining of course its original registration, including being featured in the 1963 VSCC Welsh Rally promotional film ( - details above ) around 30 seconds in, along with considerable paperwork throughout its life. The car also features in the VSCC magazine in 1969 proving the point that a 1920s car was just as reliable as its modern counterpart in fact as the article as the landcover following regular could not keep up during a journey from Marble Arch to John O'Groats!
The car has never been fully restored but well upkeep to ensure in usable running order and its condition reflects this in a good way, the car had a replacement 1930 brass carb fitted for reliability and suits it well (though I still have the original). The hood was recently replaced by a well known restorer and the interior probably 20-30 years ago so has a nice patina. There are modern indicators on the rear but these could be simply unbolted if you prefer. Over the years its had period shock absorbers fitted which helps with what otherwise a bouncy ride.
Most importably for this car is the gearbox and differential, which if you researched these cars were is its weak point, your be pleased to know that the previous owner spent £15, 000 on having this repaired and rebuilt from scratch, about 1500 miles ago its all fully documented so you have peace of mind in that respect.
It's has 'normal' driving controls so easy to settle in for a trip. To drive, turn on the fuel tap, make sure the cars ignition is retarded, a little choke for a cold start, a turn of the handle and off she purrs. She's simple to drive with the three forward speeds and reverse. Its peppy engine is a joy taking her to a comfortable cruising speed of 40-50mph, but will still meets its sales pitch of a mile a minute car, if you feel the need so comfortably keeps up with normal modern traffic.
According to my research there were only 10 of these early lightweight Empire models known in 1966, and it seems subsequently there seems to be around 4 Empire models left now.
Im selling as having a change of direction with my collection (see my other advert) and do not have time to use all of the toys I have as run out of space!
