Singer Nine Roadster

 

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE VENDOR NOW HAS THIS CAR RUNNING

Starting out as a cycle maker in Coventry in the 1880s, Singer made its first car in 1905 and by the end of the 1920s was the UK's third largest manufacturer with over 40 different models.

The Singer Nine Roadster was introduced in 1939 and became the basis of the post war models. A cross between a sports car and the popular Bantam family saloon, this open four-seater had a mildly breathed on 1074cc engine with a down-draught carburettor, a 3-speed gearbox, and was capable of 65 mph. Most post-war production was exported, so RHD UK supplied examples are relatively rare.

Purchased by the vendor in the mid ‘70s for £18 plus some work to the seller's rapidly rusting Anglia, he didn’t get a chance to use and enjoy it as intended so put it away in a shed where it has lain ever since. A three owner car, the accompanying buff log book shows that it was originally registered to a Mr Hemmings of Dudley, passing on to the gentleman with the rusty Anglia from Tipton.

Described by the vendor as being in sound condition when put away, having had a recent engine rebuild, he was able to get his hands on it due to a noisy gearbox in first and reverse.

Recently taken out of hibernation, the bodywork is described as remarkably sound underneath the years of accumulated dust and grime. A fresh battery had the engine turning over on the starter, the oil pressure gauge registering pressure. The upholstery was reputed to have been replaced shortly before the vendor acquired the car, although there is no hood in evidence.

These little Singers have a wide following with a surprisingly good supply of spares. In genuine ‘barn find’ condition, this sound restoration project may even be running in time for the sale, if the vendor can find that elusive spark...