Lea-Francis 14hp Saloon

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Like so many British car companies, the Coventry firm of Lea-Francis started out in life as manufacturers of bicycles, trying their hand at motorcars in 1904.

There then followed a lengthy break, their next four-wheeled model not appearing until 1920! For most of the 1920s and ‘30s Lea-Francis concentrated on building small capacity sporting models. The 12hp and the 14hp were introduced in 1937 and continued until the outbreak of war in 1939 when production ceased and the factory concentrated on manufacturing for the war effort.

Post-war car production recommenced in 1946 with updated vehicles based on the pre-war designs. The 14hp Saloon and Sports were luxurious and sporty vehicles and were well-received, if expensive, appealing to those who preferred individuality and craftsmanship over the humdrum mass produced offerings. Power came from Lea-Francis's own Riley-style twin-cam overhead-valve 1.8-litre four, designed by Henry Rose who had formerly played a leading role in designing Riley engines. From 1949 independent front suspension was adopted and demand for these fine cars rose steadily, 2,133 finding customers before production came to an end in 1954.

This very nicely mellowed 4-light saloon is accompanied by copies of its original test sheetfrom the factory. Its first road test took place on 14th March 1951, the car being painted black with brown leather upholstery which it retains to this day. A substantial information file includes an original brochure, plus a workshop manual on CD. In addition, a raft of invoices show that AB Price Ltd (effectively Lea-Francis Cars Ltd) supplied a short engine in 1988 complete with new gaskets and valves etc. Further, more recent invoices list a new set of rear springs and bushes, a new stainless steel petrol tank, silencer and brake overhaul amongst many others. It was last MOTd in 2012, (now exempt of course) and is described as an excellent starter and driver.

By 1993 the odometer was showing 61,000 miles, this total having risen to just under 69,000 miles at the time of cataloguing, although there is insufficient documentary evidence in the file to substantiate this figure. The car is certainly in lovely order and is ready for the forthcoming picnic season and is offered at no reserve so the highest bid takes it!