Chasing Cars
ENGINE 747cc/4-cyl/SV POWER 12bhp@2600rpm TORQUE N/A TOP SPEED Approx. 40mph 0-60MPH N/A FUEL CONSUMPTION 41-47mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, fourspeed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 24,460 miles
61 Austin Seven RP Box Saloon 63 Ford Corsair De-Luxe 65 Honda Acty Van 67 Mercedes-Benz 500SL
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? This little Austin delivers an assured test drive, pulling well and proving itself to be perfectly capable of bumbling along at 30-35mph with no untoward noises or vibrations. It takes a little practice to get the crash gearbox and quick clutch to coexist peacefully, but both feel strong and in fine fettle. You’ll also need to be happy with manual controls for idle speed and ignition advance (in addition to the manual choke), all of which appear to be functioning properly. The steering and brakes feel predictable and responsive.
BODYWORK CHECK
Apparently an older restoration but holding up well, this is a smart example with an original feel. Trafficators supplement the indicator lamps, and the vinyl roof is in tidy condition. All the usual rust areas around the lower areas of the bodywork have been restored. The chassis is similarly solid. You won’t find any significant scratches or dents, and the chrome lamps and radiator surround are fine. But there’s a little patina, enough for it to feel useable.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The inside strikes a nice balance between wear and tidiness. Everything’s functioning well, with the exception of a slightly sluggish fuel gauge. The headlining shows no signs of water ingress. There’s a little wear around the steering wheel, while the floor mats appear to be original and the thick leather gearlever gaiter has an attractively weather-beaten look. The door cards and seats are not new but are in great condition, despite a small nick on the passenger seat.
UNDER THE BONNET
The two-bearing engine and running gear are standard, wellgreased and in robust condition, with no particularly worrisome oil leaks. The radiator is looking a little rusty around the edges and therefore contributes to the period feel. It doesn’t seem to be losing coolant, but after our drive we noticed a small amount of petrol leaking around the Zenith carb. The seller is aware, and the fix should be straightforward. Electrics, cables and hoses all appear to be in perfect order, though there’s scope for cosmetic improvement in the engine bay.
THE CCW VIEW
Being among the better value and more practical derivatives, with its typical weak spots already attended to, this box saloon will suit a buyer who’s new to pre-war motoring. It spent just a few weeks with its last owner, who bought it unseen and wasn’t prepared for its diminutive size, but its previous owner had cherished it for ten years. That tells you a lot about Sevens. If you’re prepared for their limitations, these are terrific for sunny weekends in the country, with a huge club scene and nearly a century of motoring literature to digest.
PROS Smart and hopefully reliable CONS Sluggish fuel gauge needs sorting out