Highlights

Rare 1920s AC Royal six-cylinder, reportedly eligible for Vintage Sports Car Club (VSCC)
Bodywork restoration completed, with photographic documentation reportedly on file
Transaxle and running gear previously overhauled, we are told
Two substantial history files dating back to the 1980s, including AC Cars correspondence, we are told
Correct replacement head gasket reportedly included with the disassembled engine

The Appeal

The AC Royal is among the more refined offerings from the Thames Ditton manufacturer during the vintage era, powered by AC's own smooth inline-six engine. With comparatively few surviving examples, a well-sorted Royal is a rare and welcome sight at vintage events, and this car's eligibility for Vintage Sports Car Club (VSCC) participation adds considerable appeal.

This 1926 example presents a compelling opportunity for the vintage enthusiast willing to take on a focused project. The bodywork, often the most time-consuming and expensive part of any restoration, has reportedly been addressed, and the seller reports it remains in very good condition with only minor marks and blemishes to the paint. The transaxle, leaf springs, braking system, ignition, and electricals have reportedly been overhauled over the course of the car's restoration journey, which spans several decades.

The engine is currently disassembled following a head gasket replacement, with the correct replacement gasket included. This presents an opportunity for prospective buyers to inspect the cylinder head and bores, which we are informed show good condition. The car now requires a full interior retrim and engine reassembly to bring it back to its full potential.

Two substantial history files accompany the car, dating back to the 1980s and reportedly including correspondence from AC Cars. Originally part of a collection acquired in Africa, the car was subsequently sold to a private keeper, and documentation confirming import taxes were paid in 2015 is said to be included. For an enthusiast seeking a rare and characterful vintage car with much of the heavy lifting already done, this AC Royal warrants serious consideration.

Key Information

Mileage: not stated
Country of registration: imported from South Africa; import taxes paid in 2015
Technical inspection status: MOT-exempt (pre-1977)
Technical specs: 1,991cc overhead camshaft straight-six engine with unitary 3-speed rear-axle gearbox
Paperwork: reportedly includes two history files dating to the 1980s, AC Cars correspondence, bodywork restoration photographs, engine work invoices (2009), South African title copy, and import tax documentation

The Detail

Bodywork restoration completed with photographic documentation on file, we are told
The seller reports the body remains in very good condition, with minor marks and blemishes to the paintwork
Transaxle reportedly overhauled
Leaf springs, braking system, ignition, and electricals all noted to have been overhauled
Engine currently disassembled; was removed for head gasket replacement
Correct replacement head gasket included with the vehicle
Cylinder head and bores reported to show good condition
Invoices on file for engine work completed in 2009
Full interior retrim required
The car has seen minimal use in recent years
Originally part of a collection acquired in Africa, subsequently sold to a private keeper
South African title copy and import tax documentation (2015) included

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorcycles for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes, so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidder's responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.