1923 Austin Seven 'Chummy' Tourer

Footnotes

A huge success from the moment deliveries commenced in January 1923, the Austin Seven remained in production until 1939. Simple in construction, economical, and easily maintained by the home mechanic, the Seven brought motoring within the financial reach of the man in the street. Its introduction helped save the ailing Austin concern and by the mid-1920s the Seven dominated the light car market in Britain. The range of models on offer had expanded greatly by the decade's end, but the sole version available when production commenced was the 'Chummy', which for many enthusiasts remains the quintessential Seven and is highly sought after.

Owned for many years by VSCC and VCC stalwart, Paul Tillian, the current vendor, this early example was restored by Austineers in 1989/1990. Photographs taken prior to restoration are on file and the car also comes with an original handbook, spares book, sales brochure, and a quantity of notes and correspondence. In 1995 this car featured in The Times newspaper (Saturday 11th March edition) in an article by Lord Montagu of Beaulieu entitled 'The first motor for the millions' (press cutting on file). Still on beaded-edge tyres, this charming Austin Seven is in beautiful condition - you don't often see them this good and correct. A rare jewel, the car is only offered for sale because Paul's arthritis means he is no longer able to enjoy it. A superb history file accompanies the car, including various rare original Austin 7 publications; spares include a correct magneto type Austin 7 engine, gearbox and Scintilla Magneto.

Vendor Score Total: 82 /100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 21 /25
Body Work: 5
Paint: 4
Glass: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Wheels/Tyres: 4

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Axles: 4
Suspension: 4
Brakes: 4

INTERIOR TOTAL: 16 /20
Seats: 4
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 4
Headlining: 4
Trim: 4

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8 /10
Main components: 4
Ancillary components: 4

ENGINE TOTAL: 16 /20
Starting: 4
Running: 4
Under Bonnet: 4
Mechanical components: 4

Car History File: 5