Description

1924 Austin Seven Sports 50mph

A lovely, very early Sports Austin; in super condition; well-known in VSCC and LC&ES circles; on offer from a deceased estate

For the 1924 season, Austin offered three models, the standard Chummy, or 'Family model' as it was officially known at £149, the cute 'Coupe' at £165 and the 'Sports model' at £170 - all ex-works prices.

The brochure eulogised about the Sports model, maintaining 'The Austin Seven is as 'sporty' a car as one could wish. It gets off the mark like a tiger, and on the road can tease many a big car, particularly with its hill climbing speed on second gear. The Sports model is tuned to do 50mph, but is actually tested to a much higher speed'.

This Sports on offer today was first registered on 3rd March 1924 which makes it a particularly early example of the breed. According to the Vintage Austin Register, there are barely 70 Sevens still in existence that were built before this one, which retains its correct early features including beaded-edge tyres, six inch brakes, open centre wheels and correct CAV lighting.

It is understood that it started life as a Chummy, and was meticulously rebuilt in the 1990s as a Sports model using one of the two remaining original factory cars as a template. The work was done by John Wilcox with Bill Mansell recreating the coachwork, using the correct materials throughout, including aluminium for the beautiful, long tail.

It was purchased by the vendor's late father in 2011 and much used for VSCC and Light Car events, with regular attendances at Loton Park Hillclimb and the 'big green hotel' at 'Landod'...

The comprehensive history file includes a continuation buff logbook, showing the car (as a Chummy) was living in Dulwich in the early '30s. It started off blue, changed to red in 1932 and was green by 1937 so it obviously had an active life pre-war.

There are 11 old MOTs on file and a non-transferable VSCC buff form listing the car as 'standard'. There are numerous copied road tests, advertisements and articles as well as some lovely early photos.

We are told it has been running and driving nicely within the last 12 months, although it will require some fresh fuel, a new battery and perhaps a precautionary service before its next event.

With is proper weather equipment, sprightly performance and delightful 'oyster shell' wings, it looks truly delightful and has clearly been much loved over the years.

For more information - contact [email protected]