Lot 034: 1920 VAUXHALL D-TYPE KINGTON TOURER

Despite, boasting the largest engine and longest chassis of any four-cylinder Vauxhall upon launch in 1912, the D-type was nevertheless indebted to its more overtly sporting 'Prince Henry' siblings. By way of recompense, the newcomer's lusty 3969cc sidevalve unit was soon modified for the C-type (producing 75bhp @ 2,500rpm) and proved an important 'stepping stone' in the development of the mighty E-type 30/98. Sharing its imposing 10-ft 10-in wheelbase with various 3 Litre and 4.5 Litre W.O. Bentleys, the D-type was based around a robust ladder-frame chassis featuring all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and rear wheel drum brakes. Used extensively during World War 1 as a staff car, the Vauxhall's mud-plugging and troop-carrying abilities won it much praise. Re-entering civilian production with the advent of peace, the model continued to further the marque's hard won reputation for quality and performance. A seriously expensive motorcar when new, the D-type cost £1,450 in 1920 (compared to £1,675 for the E-type 30/98). Finished in blue with a polished bonnet and black leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "fair" (paintwork), "good" (four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis) or "excellent" (engine, bodywork, wheels / tyres) condition. Beginning life as a road car, chassis D3351 was rebodied and reregistered as a horsebox in 1934 (hence its 1930s 'AVW 401' numberplate). Spotted languishing on a Suffolk farm by eminent marque historian Nic Portway in 1961, the D-type was rescued some thirteen years later by Vintage enthusiast Phil Diffey who promptly set about restoring it to appropriate 1920 specification. Treated to an extensive mechanical overhaul and painstakingly reconstructed factory-style Kington tourer body, the Vauxhall was then sold to Roger Thorpe. A professional engineer, Mr Thorpe fine tuned and maintained the car for the next twenty-six years. Entering the current ownership in March 2006, 'AVW 401' has reportedly since benefited from attention to its "wheels, magneto, water pump and steering box" as well as the fabrication of "a new exhaust system". Said to have covered "many thousands of miles" over the last two years and to have proven "a very reliable car capable of covering vast daily distances with a minimum of fuss", the D-type sports an Auster screen, period lighting set and weather equipment. Riding on correct-type beaded-edge wheels, this striking Vintage Vauxhall is offered for sale with sundry documentation and MOT certificate valid until June 2008. PLEASE NOTE: We apologise but this lot is withdrawn from the 27th February 2008 auction.