Austin 7 Ulster Replica

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The diminutive baby Austin made an unlikely sports car. The butt of many jokes when unveiled to the public in 1923, it was Herbert Austin’s son in law, Arthur Waite, who suggested competing in one, having spotted the potential of its ultra-light body and chassis combination and its tough, reliable engine.

The little cars dominated the 750cc racing class wherever they went, often taking the 1100cc and 1500cc classes at the same time. Arthur Waite, by now living in Australia entered the 1928 Australian Grand Prix with a specially prepared works two-seater with a pointed tail and twin aero-screens, a car thought to be the prototype of what was to become the Ulster model.

Made in very limited numbers, their survival rate was low as they generally led hard lives. As a consequence, original cars today are very highly prized. With so many of its components used in the standard model, many Ulster Replicas have been produced, continuing the long tradition of ‘special’ building on the Austin Seven chassis.

This is one such beast, built on a long wheelbase chassis dating from 1935 and fitted with a Rod Yates body – number 72 no less. Assembled by its previous owner over the last few years, it has been upgraded with hydraulic brakes and retains its standard axle to give it better ground clearance for trials.

Fitted with attractive wings, period leather upholstery and a half tonneau, it is reputed to run and drive with plenty of verve, no doubt thanks to its lightweight body.

This smart little Ulster Rep is ideal for summer trips to the pub, or make a fun entry level car for VSCC trials, offering plenty of scope to turn into a very competitive machine indeed if its new owner so desired.