Winning bid
£9,750

1938 Austin 7 (A/AL) Open Road Four Seater Tourer

Highlights

  • Only 18 known to have survived worldwide in various conditions
  • Sympathetically restored in the early 1990s 
  • Extensive history file including a photographic record of restoration work
  • Still fitted with original 858 cc engine and four-speed synchromesh gearbox
  • Successfully completed its marque London to Brighton event
  • Transferable registration 'GNO 242'

The Appeal

We modern motorists owe a great deal to Herbert Austin. During those early years of the automobile when most manufacturers catered solely to the well-to-do, he saw the potential to build a car for the average working family.

The 7 would also be among the first motor cars to standardise today's conventional controls whereby the clutch is found on the left, the brake in the middle and the accelerator pedal to the right. His little car was indeed affordable, supremely practical and even brought home silverware in motor racing competition.

This 1938 (A/AL) Open Road Four Seater Tourer is one of just 18 known example - and is surely one of the best.

Affectionately dubbed "Geno" in reference to its distinctive registration, this 7 has the accolade of retaining its original 858cc engine and 4-speed synchromesh gearbox. It was sympathetically restored in the early 1990s, with a detailed history file and photos documenting the process. The vendor understands that they are the seventh registered keeper and indeed the Austin is accompanied by a substantial history file.

It's proved its worth too, successfully completing the marque's London to Brighton event without issue. If you're on the hunt for a pre-war motorcar that's ready to go, these later Austin 7s are exceedingly usable and the rarity of this stylish open tourer makes it especially compelling.
b7159528-d351-4b38-a0a4-2744613e9720.jpg 1.48 MB

History and Paperwork

  • Seven registered keepers
  • Supplied new to the Chingford area, verified by original Austin Factory dispatch records
  • Sympathetically restored in the early 1990s with photos documenting the process
  • Extensive history file
  • Buff log book, handbooks, and other useful information included
  • Ulez or Congestion charges exempt
  • MOT and tax exempt
  • Excellent Club support and spares availability

The Condition

  • Beautifully presented inside, out and under the bonnet
  • The bodywork looks exceedingly smart with no notable defects to report
  • No obvious signs of corrosion or accident damage
  • Superb paint finish, with an even gloss across all panels
  • Interior retrimmed to a very high standard, paying attention to original details like recreating the correct door pockets
  • High quality double-duck hood with opening side screen windows
  • Original 56lb luggage/picnic basket carrier
  • Original semaphore and discreetly fitted flashing indicators fitted

The Mechanics

  • Original 858 cc four-cylinder engine
  • Four-speed synchromesh gearbox
  • Converted to 12-volt electrical system by a professional with supporting invoice for over £1,000
  • Little used since set of five high quality tyres fitted and all brakes relined
  • Successfully completed the Austin London to Brighton event
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 
We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own  full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. 
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected] 
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Auction Details

  • Year1938
  • MakeAustin
  • Model7
  • ColourBlue
  • Engine size858cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownWaldron
  • CountySussex
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

3 Bids

Dering••••
Bid
£9,750
23/08/24
GrahamQ••••
Bid
£1,000
23/08/24
peter-p••••
Bid
£150
23/08/24

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