Descrizione
Utterly charming is the only way to describe this stunning little Ruby Saloon. The subject of a full body-off rebuild in the early 1990`s and benefitting from comprehensive history, this diminutive Austin has covered just 5, 000 miles since restoration principally in the hands of 2 long-term keepers. The last (of 14 years), has regularly serviced and tinkered with the car and so not surprisingly, it starts up and drives as good as it looks. An older restoration that has mellowed well now ready for the summer months ahead.
In 1920, recognising the needs of young families wishing to own their own motor car, Sir Herbert Austin embarked on the project of designing and building a small, economical car akin to the Ford Model T in North America. With his own Austin Motor Co. in receivership, he personally employed an 18-year-old draftsman, Stanley Edge, from the Austin factory in Longbridge (itself producing large, heavy saloons) and working from the billiard room of his Victorian mansion with Edge living-in for 2 years, created what was to become the first Baby Austin. Edge was largely responsible for the small, 4-cylinder engine, 3-speed gearbox and clutch assembly whilst the actual styling was down to Austin himself with inspiration from a Peugeot Quadrilette and chassis ideas from American trucks that were in use at the Longbridge factory. Largely self-funded by Austin, the new car was unveiled to the public in July 1922 going into production a year later. First year sales were slow (2500 units) but the idea soon caught on and by the late 1920`s, the cyclecar industry was all but dead with Seven production restoring Austin`s fortunes. Licensed versions of the Seven were subsequently made worldwide from Europe, the Far East and Australia and the car became the stuff of motoring legend. A range of body styles from open 2 and 4-seater tourers, saloons, sports/ racing variants and even light commercials followed and by the time production ceased in 1939, over 290, 000 Sevens had been made.
Our car dates from April 1937 and as such features the later 747cc engine and 4-speed gearbox with synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and top gears. Sadly we know little of the Austin`s early history but by the late 1980`s was residing in Corfe Mullen, Dorset. In 1991, it was taken to local specialists, MHC MacPherson Coachworks in Farnham near Blandford and over the following 2 years underwent a full body-off rebuild with associated repaint in Cellulose and complete retrim in Burgundy leather with Black carpets and new headlining. Back on the road in 1993, the Austin was evidently used and enjoyed covering around 4, 500 miles until sold in 2002 to a gentleman in Thatcham, Berkshire. Over this initial period, further detailing was undertaken with many receipts from The Seven Workshop in Bradford on Avon and general servicing by Little Canford Garage in Wimborne whilst post-sale, Dallas Autos in Newbury took over the responsibility. Within just 5 years and less than 700 miles, the car was sold again to a retired engineer and vintage car enthusiast near Reading who garaged the Seven along with his collection of nine other classics. Serviced regularly by the owner, the Austin has enjoyed a cossetted existence and it is only due to a necessary down-scaling that the need to find it a new home arose.
Since acquiring the Austin, we have done little but polish it and enjoy it. The photographs very much tell the story. Other than a few stone chips, the car still presents superbly with excellent panel-work and a lovely soft lustre finish to the Cellulose paintwork. The cabin tells the same story with excellent trim, perfect leather seats and door cards and very good headlining. Pull the starter and the little 4-pot fires immediately into life settling quickly after full choke to a gentle idle. On the road, the Seven is a real giggle. I have just enjoyed a 5-mile run across the South Dorset Downs and loved every second. Benefitting from the later synchromesh gearbox, the little car moves up through the gears swiftly, cruising happily at 35-40MPH. Steering is surprisingly positive and brakes too are firm and effective pulling the Austin up straight when the need arises. Remembering that it is 86 years old, it actually drives remarkably well and engenders the same thumps up reaction with any other passing motorist.
The car comes with a comprehensive history file of bills and receipts documenting the past 30 years, most MoT Certificates from 1993 to 2012 and a current V5C. It is naturally both MoT and road-tax exempt.
A charming and iconic pre-war Austin in superb order and ready to be enjoyed.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
Deposit now taken.
