Descrizione
Crossley of Manchester produced approximately 1150 of their 19. 6 model available with seven different body styles. This, the Sports model was only marketed for 2 years, so quite rare in the day. I understand only two such examples survive in the UK, this being imported back from Australia in the late 1990’s being owned by Mr Jenner of Norfolk in 1998 but possibly not on the road at this point.
Crossley’s marketing material at the time states, “Sitting behind our handsome pointed radiator, graceful bonnet and scuttle, and low streamlined body gives the car and unusually attractive and racy appearance. The front seat is low I can accommodate three persons, and a roomy and comfortable folding dickey seat for two is provided”. Some 94 years later I think SV9311 still lives up to that hype of the original 1923 marketing material.
The vendor and I had arranged meet to view SV9311 at Goodwood Revival. As we made our way across a rather muddy exhibitors trade field, SV9311 was easy to spot, and standing head and shoulder above the plethora of more modern historic cars parked around her. Even in the damp almost miserable conditions SV9311 was worth leaving the cover of my paddock shelter. As I admired her the vendor and I spoke about his recent trip across northern France, where they had returned days earlier. They had successfully partaken in the 90th celebrations of Coupe Florio, in addition winning both the overall Coupe Florio Trophy and the Concours D’Elegance at the same event much to the vendors amusement, they just love her he laughs. It's fair to say that SV9311 has lead a relatively active life with her current custodian over the last 5 years. Taking the coveted VSCC Edwardian Pomeroy trophy, along with numerous other adventurers both here at home and further afield .
Effortless power is provided by Crossley’s 3. 7 litre four cylinder, which has had the compression ratio upped by the vendor so she motors on very well! The vendor does like to use and enjoy his numerous cars extensively, so there are a couple of non period modifications like the alternator conversion and a small heater element around the carburettor, to prevent icing have been fitted, however both these can easily be reverted back to standard. Not shown in the photos is a full tonneau and hoodbag both in fawn double duck.
She sits in splendour at our Foxfields Showroom ready for any inspection test drive by prior appointment. I’m sure she would continue to delight her next custodian and be welcomed at any event they desire to attend.
