Austin Big 7 Forlite Saloon

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Launched in 1922 and remaining in production until 1940, the Austin 7 was an overnight sensation. Far superior to and cheaper than any contemporary rival, the "big car in miniature" quickly wiped out the cyclecar industry and transformed the fortunes of Austin.

With good performance, accommodation and four-wheel brakes, it brought proper motoring to the masses and won a legendary status which it has not lost to this day.

An extremely versatile design, its simple but well-executed A-frame, leaf-sprung chassis played host to a bewildering range of derivatives from Brooklands single-seaters to two-gearbox tractors, nearly all with the same 4-cylinder, sidevalve 747cc engine. The one exception was the Big 7, the last model in the line which was produced from 1937-40 and had an 885cc engine, all the better to lug around its significantly more commodious saloon bodywork.

On offer from a deceased estate, this charming Big 7 Four-Lite Saloon was purchased by the late owner in 2014 through West Riding Classics. The history file is sadly rather light on detail, although a series of tax discs dating from 1955 are present. Other than that, we can see that it has been well cared for and retains much of its original upholstery in good usable condition.

We are advised that it will be up and running in time for the sale and makes a much more comfortable and usable alternative to its smaller Ruby sibling.