Lot Ended
Description
1939 Austin Big Seven;
delightful pre-war saloon with charming patina; MOT tested until 15 May 2026
with no advisories; MOTd every year until DVLA records began with the last
showing just 69,052 miles
Further photographs to
come
Offered here is a wonderful
example of the ever-popular 1939 Austin Big Seven, a characterful pre-war motor
car boasting a total of six former keepers and an engaging
history.
Powered by its trusty 900cc
engine, this Austin was first registered in 1939 and came to renewed attention
in 2014, when it was discovered by a previous custodian as a genuine barn find,
having lain unused for many years. After little more than an oil change, fresh
fuel and a new battery, the car famously sprang back into life and, just 24
hours later, completed a spirited round trip to Brooklands, some 30 miles each
way — a fine testament to Austin engineering.
Affectionately
christened “Rat Bag”, the car then benefited from extensive sympathetic
refurbishment between 2014 and 2020. During this period the engine was
completely rebuilt, a new clutch fitted and the radiator re-cored. New engine
mountings were installed along with a new old stock carburettor, regulator and
wiring. The king pins and bushes were renewed, a new wiper motor and flashing
indicators fitted, and the car was shod with new tyres all
round.
Inside, the headlining and
carpets have been replaced, while the leather seats have been carefully
recoloured, retaining the car’s period charm. The exterior paintwork has
deliberately been left “as is”, having only been mopped and polished, resulting
in an appealing and honest patina that suits the car
perfectly.
Sold in 2020, the Austin was
enjoyed by its next owner for over five years before being acquired by the
current vendor earlier this year. Regrettably, due to unforeseen circumstances,
the car is now offered once more for sale, Rat Bag would benefit from mild
refurbishment now as most of the work was carried out around 10 years
ago.
This delightful and usable
pre-war Austin is ready to be enjoyed, having covered very little mileage in
recent years. It is MOT tested until 15 May 2026 with no advisories, recorded at
69,052 miles.
A substantial history file
will accompany the car and will be available for inspection shortly — please
look out for a forthcoming update to the listing. In the meantime, for further
information, please contact
[email protected]