Registration No: MH 1833
Chassis No: 6634
MOT: Exempt
Spurred on by the introduction of the Horsepower Tax in 1921, Sir Herbert Austin began working on the concept of a small family car despite opposition from the company’s board due to their being in receivership at the time. Undaunted, Sir Herbert engaged the services of a young draftsman from the Longbridge Plant, eighteen-year old Stanley Edge, and plans were drawn up in the billiard room of his house, Lickey Grange. Having invested a large amount of his personal money into the project and being responsible for much of the car’s styling, Sir Herbert was able to claim a royalty of two Guineas on each car built. Initially powered by a side valve four-cylinder engine of 696cc (subsequently enlarged to 747cc / 10.5hp) and featuring a detachable cylinder head, the new model was rated at 7.2 horsepower. Some 2,500 examples were produced in 1923 and just a few years later the little Austin had transformed the fortunes of the parent company. By the time production ceased with the advent of war in 1939 some 290,000 cars and vans had been produced.
A notably early and charming 'pram hood' example of the ‘Chummy’. Also known as the Austin 7 Tourer or Baby Austin, ‘MH 1833’ would be an ideal candidate for VSCC events. Pleasingly retaining its original body, its is ‘powered’ by the reliable 747cc four-cylinder engine coupled to the correct early three-speed gearbox. It has been subject to engine work by a specialist, slipper pistons have been utilised, along with an angled head. Other previous restoration work includes refurbishment of the hood, interior and the paintwork. Residing in current ownership for the last two years ‘MH 1833’ has only covered 50 miles in that time. It is accompanied by a current V5C Registration Document however side screens are not present with the Chummy.
For more information, please contact:
James McWilliam
james.mcwilliam@handh.co.uk
07943 584760
Auction: Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire, 19th Jun, 2024
An auction of classic, collector and performance motorcars held at the iconic and visually stunning Imperial War Museum, Duxford. Venue Details
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