Highlights
- Mostly unrestored and original with less than 65,000 miles
- Only three former owners from new
- Series IV with 124bhp OHV 3 litre straight six
- Column change manual with Laycock de Normanville Overdrive in 2nd and top gear
- Two tone paint in Green with Primrose roof
The Appeal
Introduced in October 1958, the new 'Series' (as opposed to 'Mark') Super Snipe was flagship of the contemporary Humber range. Humber’s first six-cylinder car, it was offered as a saloon, limousine and estate, and all variants shared the same fashionable transatlantic styling cues. Progressively developed, the model gained a larger 2,965cc engine, Girling front discs and a quad headlamp facelift. Boasting more horsepower (124bhp @ 5,000rpm) and a lighter 9-inch Borg & Beck clutch, it was capable of a heady 100mph. A favourite among businessmen and politicians alike, its luxurious cabin was adorned with good quality hides, highly polished wood veneers and plenty of creature comforts.
Finished in green with a contrasting primrose roof and green leather upholstery, this particular example is in nicely preserved and useable condition. Reportedly with its original keeper from October 1962 until 2005, 456 BBK is believed to have been treated to a £7,500 mechanical and body refurbishment around 2003. The mileage is thought to be genuine, with DVLA history back to 2006 and looking at the interior wear we think it looks like this is likely to be correct. Now offered as the seller is reducing his collection, this is a lovely example of rare British luxury saloon of the 1960s.
Finished in green with a contrasting primrose roof and green leather upholstery, this particular example is in nicely preserved and useable condition. Reportedly with its original keeper from October 1962 until 2005, 456 BBK is believed to have been treated to a £7,500 mechanical and body refurbishment around 2003. The mileage is thought to be genuine, with DVLA history back to 2006 and looking at the interior wear we think it looks like this is likely to be correct. Now offered as the seller is reducing his collection, this is a lovely example of rare British luxury saloon of the 1960s.
History and Paperwork
- Built and first registered in 1962
- Chassis number 8200003, so possibly the third Series IV manufactured
- Likely to have been a press vehicle, Special Order or Dealer demonstrator
- Purchased by the seller in December 2022
- V5c In Seller’s name
- Current MoT valid until March 2024
- Used sparingly, just 11 miles since March 2022
- DVLA MoT history back to 2006 @ 54,886 miles
- Original Humber Super Snipe repair manual
- Original Humber Super Snipe Series IV Owner’s manual
The Interior
- Generally carrying a lovely patina
- Green leather interior with matching green carpet
- Comfortable green leather seats in nicely aged condition
- Off-colour panel on driver’s seat, however, the stitching appears to be original
- Clean green carpet showing a little fading and wear
- White roof lining in very good condition, with insignificant marks
- Green leather door cards with wood cappings all in nice condition with insignificant age-related wear
- High gloss wooden dash with no cracks or damage
- Full complement of gauges, all working
- Large two spoke steering wheel with horn ring and Snipe badge
- Rear fold down tables and ashtrays all in near perfect condition
- Clean boot lined with green carpet. Spare wheel beneath carpeted cover
- Solid painted boot floor with no corrosion or stains
In general, the interior is nicely aged with small areas that could be improved. The seats are comfortable and all the gauges, dash and switches are smart and appear to all be working correctly. A lovely, and well-preserved luxury interior of the 1960s.
The Exterior
- Paintwork in good overall condition, two tone green with primrose roof
- Small blisters and some corrosion around offside rear arch
- Some minor age-related marks
- All glass and lenses in great condition
- White steel wheels with full chrome Humber hubcaps with no dents
- Lightly worn set of Camac tyres
- Good original chrome with age-commensurate marks and slight pitting in places
- Correct Humber badging and side trim in good condition
- Good front grille with no bent parts and correct Snipe badge
The exterior presents well for a car of this age. The chrome has a good shine and there are just small areas of bodywork that will eventually require attention.
The Mechanics
- 3 litre OHV straight six with 124bhp
- Easy to use column change 3 speed manual gearbox
- Overdrive on 2nd and 3rd gears
- Clean underside with solid chassis
- Good under seal and light surface oxidisation on exposed metal
- Presentable and mostly original engine bay with evidence of new parts
- Starts well and easy to drive
Summary
With its traditional British design mixed with transatlantic styling cues, the Super Snipe is a good looking and interesting car that still has plenty to offer. Greeted with enthusiasm by the motoring press of the time, "The Humber Super Snipe is an assured car for travelling comfortably from town to town and even on the new fast motorways. Yet its powerful engine allows it to handle the challenges of smaller lanes”. Sounds like the perfect car!
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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