Beschreibung
A remarkably fine example built to Colonial specification, the D-type offered here was originally sold to New Zealand in 1920 and still wears the factory Kington touring body, while under the bonnet is the original motor, making this a rare commodity indeed - a ‘matching numbers’ car pre-war car.
Not a whole lot of history is known about the car whilst in New Zealand but letters on file suggest it was sold to Barry Roland Thompson of Putaruru circa 1957 and later went to Geoff Beetham of Auckland. The D-type was subsequently sold to long-term custodian Peter Kennedy of Mitcham, South Australia in 1980 by well-known collector and enthusiast John Southward of Auckland when in very original but tired condition, missing only some minor jewellery and electrical components but otherwise remarkably complete.
Following its arrival in Australia in January 1981, D3190 underwent a comprehensive restoration carried out by the owner over a number years, with Kennedy ably assisted by the likes of Ral Rainsford (who owned a very original sister car) and Terry Parker.
Remaining in Kennedy’s care for approximately 40 years, the D-type was ultimately sold to another vintage Vauxhall exponent and active club member from the ACT, who carried out further mechanical refurbishment and successfully completed a long distance rally. With the recent purchase of a 30/ 98 the older D-type has been deemed surplus to requirements and is now ready for a new owner to enjoy this fabulous car.
Clearly restored with a great deal of effort to preserve the D-type’s authenticity, D3190 presents very well all these years later, with a lovely patina of use and has clearly only had limited use. The hood is in very good condition, while the folding side screens that can be swivelled into a windscreen for the rear-seat passengers by Messrs Motor Equipments Ltd is a lovely period feature.
Accompanying the car is a folder of photographs showing the car both pre-, during and post-restoration plus a second folder containing an extensive receipt and history file dating back to 1957, making this a very well-documented Vauxhall indeed.
With the rapid increase in prices of the sporting 30-98 and Edwardian models, this D-type represents excellent value for money and is a great proposition as a vintage tourer – beautifully engineered, well-made and fun to drive.
Estimate: $75, 000 - $90, 000
