Lot number | 56 |
---|---|
Hammer value | £5,825 |
Description | Singer Chamois Coupe |
Registration | RPB 960E |
Year | 1967 |
Mileage | 81,000 (Indicated) |
Colour | Turquoise |
Engine size | 930 cc |
Chassis No. | 721000600HC0 |
Documents | V5C,Buff Logbook |
Singer introduced their Coupe version of the Imp - the Chamois in October 1967, named after an agile mountain antelope found in Europe - small, surefooted and fast.
Charming and effective, the new car had quite startling acceleration, the Coupe featuring a more rakish rear window which was fixed, unlike the standard model’s ‘hatchback’ window.
Singer had a reputation for luxury cars and Imps carrying the Singer badge maintained that reputation. The interior was fitted with polished walnut veneer and the seats were larger and more comfortable than in the Imp. A temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge and heater blower were standard fittings.
On the outside it sported a large dummy grille, bumper over-riders, anodised aluminium wheel trims and an exclusive range of colours with a stripe down its side. It also featured a heavier duty clutch and better sound proofing. Most of the Imp’s teething troubles were solved by the time the Singer version was introduced and Chamois was an immediate success although never sold in huge numbers so survivors are few and far between.
The rare Singer Chamois Coupe offered here comes from a small collection and is being offered to free up some space -although not a lot!
First registered in May 1967 it has had 6 owners who have obviously lavished care on the car and there is some history with it. The sills were replaced by a previous owner with photos on file. The turquoise exterior is in good overall condition and the paintwork and chrome shine well. It is in remarkably original condition and looks to be solid, with none of the rot issues that caused the demise of most of its brethren. The interior has new carpets but is mostly original - not tatty but showing nice patina.
The 875cc engine was rebuilt in the past by a previous owner and was upgraded from 875cc to 930 cc (with photos on file). A single Solex carburettor and sports exhaust give it a little more power. It also has a front disc brake conversion. On the road the Coupe feels sprightly and kart like, as it should.
Now a rare sight indeed, the DVLA show only 14 in existence and a mere nine of these on the road. Now would seem a wise moment to grab what has to be one of the best!
Bidders are advised that the car was driven 150 miles to the sale without 'missing a beat'.