Description
For Sale: 1927 Austin Seven AD Chummy
Herbert Austin Created Austin in 1906. The company expanded quickly during the great war, working from a one model policy. This being every vehicle produced based on the 20hp components. Whilst the great war helped the expansion of units sold, by 1920 the one car model policy was a failure and Austin face bankruptcy.
It is during this time, and due to new board members placed at the company by creditors that Herbert Austin retreated to Lickey Grange (his estate). With the help of Stanley Edge, an 18 year old draughtsman, the Austin seven was conceived in secret.
Finally released to the public at Claridge’s in June 1922. The car single handedly helped to turn the fate of the Austin car company. It was so successful that within two years, the Austin Seven had almost killed off cycle cars, and damaged the sales of motorcycles and sidecars. 123, 161 units were sold until the end of 1930.
Our model is an Austin Seven AD Chummy – Defined by scuttle headlights, mounted back on the wings, and fitted with the uncoupled front and rear brakes (These have now been modified to coupled brakes). It was first registered on the 15th August 1927 as a red tourer, as stated on the replacement buff log book issued in 1956.
The early part of its life is now lost to time. However, the car appears to originate from Essex and we can see at some point the original red was replaced with a blue colour palette. Luckily, the last owner returned the car back to its original swatch.
The car moved to Canterbury in 1961 and has remained there ever since. Coming from a deceased estate, they appear to have been the only owners since the introduction of the modern V5 log book.
The owners were avid vintage and brass era enthusiasts. This shows in the condition of the car. The only modifications being the coupled brakes, and a manual choke fitted to ease starting. Cosmetically, checker plate has been added to the driver and passenger side steps.
Presented in red coachwork with black leather seats, and black touring hood. The car is in very good condition and fires on the first try. Drives as any Austin 7 does. The hood is in great condition, with no visible leaks, and folds down with ease. The seats are all in good condition with a nice patina. The lights all work. This is a great example for a VSCC tour or vintage rally.
The dedication given to this car shows in its presentation. Whilst most of its history is lost to time, it is supplied with a small paper file. This is a desirable AD Seven, and as the Austin famous slogan goes, “You buy a car, but you invest in an Austin”
£16, 500 ovno.
