Lot 415: 1952 Armstrong-Siddeley Whitley Saloon

Following the formation of Armstrong Siddeley in 1919, it wasn't long before its cars attracted Royal patronage, customers even including the Duke of York (later King George VI). It was not until 1933 however, that the Rolls-Royce and Daimler markets were first challenged by the 4.9 litre Siddeley Special. After World War II, before which it merged its aero engine division with Hawker to become Hawker Siddeley, Armstrong built the Hurricane drophead and Lancaster saloon models and then the Typhoon coup and Whitley saloon before replacement by the all new Sapphire. Launched in October 1952, the Sapphire used a box section chassis with all enveloping coachwork. Beneath the elegant lines, the Sapphire, named after the successful jet engine, employed all round leaf spring suspension, but it was the engine that aroused interest. A 3,435cc straight six, it boasted hemispherical combustion chambers with a side camshaft operating one pushrod per valve via rockers on two shafts. Breathing through a single Stromberg carburettor, it produced 125bhp at 4,800rpm and a lusty 1761b.ft at just l,000 rpm, enough to propel the luxurious saloon to 95mph and from 0-60mph in a spirited 15.5 seconds, via a four-speed manual or preselect gearbox. In 1950, the engine size was increased from 1991cc to 2300cc with lower bonnet lines and a new razor edge style Whitley saloon. The later Whitley had a six light arrangement but the earlier four light configuration certainly proving to be more popular. The example presented today starts on the button having remained in the current owners family its entire life. It was the subject of a substantial restoration although this did take place over 20 years ago. The walnut facia is in good order with the rest of the interior trim also enjoying the patina of its years. It is complete with original buff registration booklet, numerous receipts and an original article from 'The Autocar'. An added bonus to this lot is the inclusion of the original sales brochure containing photographs, descriptions and prices of the entire Armstrong-Siddeley range.