Beskrivning
UTAC | Millbrook, Bedford
Viewing: Tues 24th June from 12pm
Auction: Wed 25th June from 9am
Location: Millbrook Proving Ground, Station Lane, Bedford MK45 2JQ
1939 Austin Big Seven 'Forlite' Saloon
No Reserve
Registration No: JM 3869
Chassis No: CRW9210
MOT: Exempt
Last on the road in 1990
Still recorded on the DVLA / HPi databases under its original Westmorland registration number
Appears to be substantially complete
A potentially rewarding and straightforward restoration project
Unveiled by Lord Austin at Longbridge on July 13th 1937, the Big Seven was intended to bridge the gap between the marque’s Seven and Ten models; a niche the Morris Eight was filling all too readily. Based around a ladder frame chassis equipped with all-round leaf-sprung suspension and four-wheel drum brakes, the newcomer was powered by an 885cc four-cylinder sidevalve engine allied to four-speed manual transmission. Available in four-door ‘Sixlite’ or (from March 1938) two-door ‘Forlite’ saloon guises, the Big Seven remained in production until March 1939 by which time some 20, 171 had been made. As of August 2023, the Big Seven Register knew of just 153 surviving ‘Forlites’.
First registered in Westmorland on April 19th 1939 (or so its ‘JM 3869’ number plate would imply), chassis CRW9210 has been farm stored and off the road since the early 1990s. Last changing registered keepers on July 1st 1988, the Austin appears to be substantially complete. A notably late example of the Big Seven, the four-seater would seem an ideal candidate for an ‘oily rag’ restoration. The engine turns freely and it is hoped but not promised that ‘JM 3869’ will be running and driving by the time of the auction. Offered for sale with registration document and HPi report.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
