"The Austin 7 is an economy car that was produced from 1923 until 1939 in the UK. It was nicknamed the ‘baby Austin’ and was, at that time, one of the most popular cars produced for the British market and also sold well abroad. Its effect on the British market was similar to that of the Model T Ford in the US.
Herbert Austin's son-in-law, Arthur Waite, soon began to achieve remarkable sporting successes beginning at Brooklands in March 1923 and the next month at Monza. Another driver, E C Gordon England, persuaded Sir Herbert to provide him with a racing 7. Waite and Lou Kings (chief tester) then experienced a run of failure brought about by inadequate engine lubrication for racing conditions. Meanwhile, Gordon England, flushed with success from establishing six new class records at Brooklands, had built a special lightweight two-seater body weighing just 20lb and entered it in the 1100cc class for the Junior Car Club 200 mile race at Brooklands in October 1923. There Gordon England finished in second place and during the race won another five class records. Austin 7s were rebuilt as ‘specials’ after the Second World War, including the first race car built by Bruce McLaren, and the first Lotus, the Mk I. Companies such as Speedex in Luton thrived in the late 1950s by producing race-proven bodies and engine parts for the Seven chassis. The ‘Specials’ were more commonly used latterly as ‘mud pluggers’ in hillclimbing.
This lovely little British classic is presented in the traditional blue vinyl body covering with grey wheel arches/runner boards and natural aluminium bonnet cover. It has a black interior and black hood, both of which are in good condition and has just had its wheels refurbished at vast expense, including new inner tubes fitted. It is powered by a lively 747cc four-cylinder engine mated to a three speed manual gearbox and is on the button! These are rare cars and certainly one in this condition should not be missed."