Lot 314: Austin Seven 'Chummy' Tourer

A huge success from the moment deliveries commenced in January 1923, the Austin Seven remained in production until 1939. Simply constructed, economical and easily maintained by the home mechanic, the Seven brought motoring within the financial reach of the man in the street, who hitherto would probably have settled for a motorcycle combination. Its introduction helped save the ailing Austin concern and by the mid-1920s the Seven dominated the light car market in Britain. In essence the Seven changed little in the course of its 17 years in production, retaining the 'A'-frame chassis, transverse front spring, rear quarter elliptics and four-cylinder sidevalve engine to the end. There were, of course, numerous detail improvements along the way, a longer wheelbase, roomier bodies, coupled brakes and a three-bearing crankshaft to name but four. The sole version available when production commenced was the 'Chummy' tourer. Saloon, fabric saloon and coupé models, plus a roomier tourer, were on offer by 1929 when the example offered here was manufactured. One of the first Austin Seven saloons was the 'Top Hat', so called because of its upright, formal-looking, straight-sided coachwork, which was panelled in aluminium to save weight and boasted elaborate cloth interior trim, and unusual feature in a British car at the time. But of all the many versions offered, it is the humble 'Chummy' that remains for many enthusiasts the quintessential Seven and today these charming little cars are highly sought after. We are advised that this particular Chummy was rescued from a scrap yard and painstakingly restored by a previous owner, the work being completed approximately three years ago. A file of photographs recording the 'chassis upwards' restoration, which included a re-trimmed interior and new hood, comes with the car. Described as in generally very good condition and said to be a pleasure to drive, 'SV 8978' is offered with MoT/tax to January 2013 and Swansea V5 registration document.