Lot details
Registration No: WVS 964
Chassis No: 13619
Mot Expiry: July 2007

With sales of the long-serving Seven tailing off rapidly and a proposed 8hp model still undergoing development, Austin's market share was maintained by the 'stop-gap' Big Seven introduced in July 1937. Similar in design ethos to its little brother, the new car featured a leaf-sprung ladder-frame chassis, 7ft 3.5in wheelbase and all-round drum brakes. Powered by a new 900cc, four-cylinder engine developing a heady 25bhp, its top speed was around 57mph. Initially available in four-door six-light guise, a two-door 'Forlite' variant was added in January 1938.

Finished in blue over black with brown leather / blue rexine upholstery, this particular 'Forlite' example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, chassis, bodywork), "fair" (interior trim) or "very good" (paintwork, wheels / tyres) condition. Entering the current family ownership in 1988, 'WVS 964' is now being offered as part of a deceased estate. Although, accompanied by "plenty of literature and history", little is apparently known about the saloon's previous keepers. Riding on steel wheels, it is hoped that this characterful Austin will possess a fresh MOT certificate by the time of sale (though, the current one does not expire until July 15th 2007).