Austin 7 Chummy

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Designed as a “big car in minature”, the Austin 7 offered excellent performance, reliability and big car comfort at a price that the working man could afford. It genuinely was “motoring for the millions”. Drive an Austin 7 today and you will receive more waves and smiles per mile than in any other car.

By 1927 the car was in its prime and for many, this period represents the pinnacle of “cuteness”, retaining the short black radiator surround, scuttle-mounted lights, gate gearchange, dainty wings and the Magneto engine. They were also lighter than the later models, the taller 4.9:1 back axle ratio ensuring that a well driven “Chummy” performs better than the later heavier cars maintaining a genuine 45-50mph on the open road.

This pristine example was purchased by the vendor as a project some years ago, the restoration having recently been completed. The timing was not ideal, as its conclusion coincided with the acquisition of a fabulously original 1925 Chummy, hence the reason this slightly later car is on offer today.

The car was completely stripped, the chassis prepared and the rear axle stripped and rebuilt. The front axle was sent away to have its axle eyes shrunk back to standard and new king pins and brakes fitted throughout – including fresh cables.

The engine was sent to Quarry engineering who rebuilt it with new white-metal and bearings and the body was carefully restored with new floors and a subsequent retrim in black vinyl and smart maroon carpets. The car also sports a new hood and hood bag.

Sitting on correct 19” wheels, the only thing it has not had since the work was finished is a comprehensive shake-down, so its lucky new owner will simply have to plan multiple journeys to the pub – what a shame…