Stanley 735B Condensing Steam Car No. 19199 of 1919 SO713 For Sale

Offered for sale is a superb example of a Stanley Condensing Steam Car, dating from 1919.

This well-presented example was manufactured by Stanley of the United States in 1919 and remained in the USA until it was imported to the UK in 1976. It then spent a little time in the Netherlands between 2003 and 2011 before being reimported to the UK by the vendor. Since 2011, it has been used and enjoyed regularly with improvements being made to ensure it is a useable example and ready to enjoy on the open road!

The current boiler was built in 2001 however not fitted until 2012. The most recent hydraulic examination was conducted in 2021 (this would typically be valid for 7-10 years). The latest boiler report gives a clean bill of health from a reputable boiler inspector working alongside JR Goold Steam Ltd – a household name in the UK for Stanley Steam Cars! The boiler is pressure tested to 600PSI and the current steam certificate is valid until 23/ 06/ 2025.

Alongside assisting with the boiler inspections, JR Goold Steam Ltd have been involved with the upkeep of this Stanley for quite some time with invoices for maintenance work dating back through the years. That maintenance has clearly been particularly thorough with little left to chance in the invoice breakdown. Alongside JR Goold, Bentley and Rolls Royce Specialists McKenzie Guppy Ltd have also played a part in maintaining this Stanley, including the beneficial addition in 2021 of hydraulic rear disc brakes which makes a huge difference on the road! The invoices between both companies tally up to the point where it is fair to say the vendor has been generous with the funding in keeping this Stanley on the road and safe to use.

As typical for this model of Stanley, it is a 20hp model with an under-type, twin cylinder steam engine propelling the wheels by direct drive. It is fired with a vertical, fire-tubed boiler currently running on a 75:25 mixture of paraffin and petrol. The pilot has been converted to Calor gas for ease of operation. It is fitted with Water Automatic meaning the water system should keep the boiler at a constant (and it is pretty effective!). It also has automatic fuel controls to keep the pressure steady and a sophisticated oil system for lubricating the moving parts.

In recent years, as mentioned above, the owner has sought to increase the safety and functionality of the car with a handful of retrofits include the pilot conversion, electric flashing indicators, steam whistle, disc brakes, an electric air pump for the petrol tank and override for water automatic by-pass. As with many condensing Stanleys, there is an option to using the condensing radiator however the decision has been made to isolate this system to improve the life of the boiler.

Despite these various additions, care has been taken to retain the original character and charm of this early 20th century steam car. The paintwork is very presentable and shows the car off as being a smart example of its era. Likewise, the upholstery and seating are in good order displaying that character only seen in well-worn leather. The hood is in very good condition and works fully, as expected – it is particularly helpful if caught in a shower when enjoying the car on the road!

In terms of paperwork, the car comes with a box full of information and literature. There are detailed boiler reports, invoicing, books, information from its original UK import and subsequent time in the Netherlands as well as some modern, useful diagrams and explanations from the current owner to the prospective buyer.

Overall, it is well-sorted example of the Stanley 735B which has clearly been looked after to a high standard and is ready to enjoy.

Asking Price – £52, 995

We always encourage prospective buyers to view historic vehicles and steam engines in person prior to purchase. This car is advertised for sale by Berrybrook Steam & Classics on behalf of the owner and seller.

This vehicle is at our showrooms near Exeter and available for viewings.

For more information, please speak to Matt on the details below or email using the button below.

As with all of our historic vehicles listed for sale, we recommend viewing in person where possible. Appointments are recommended so please try to contact us before travelling for a viewing.

Please ask about our flexible part-exchange options. Delivery can be arranged to anywhere in the UK, and beyond, at buyer’s expense.