Austin 7 ORT

ENGINE 747cc/4-cyl/SV POWER 10.5bhp@2400rpm TORQUE N/A MAXIMUM SPEED 47mph 0-40MPH 14sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 35-45mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed manual MoT Exempt ODOMETER 1084 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The engine fires willingly and feels enthusiastic as you pull off in first gear. The clutch is sharper than a butcher’s knife, but that’s how they were, and you do get used to it. The steering wanders – but much less than other early Sevens we’ve driven – so cornering does require some care, though you’re hardly going to be taking bends at supersonic speeds. The car feels quite communicative – the secret is to let it get on with the job rather than constantly over-correcting. The brakes are adjusted exactly how they should be.

BODYWORK CHECK

This Austin underwent specialist restoration in 1997 and manages to remain pristine without feeling like an unapproachable show car. There are no significant blemishes, the chassis looks absolutely straight and rot-free, the mudguards don’t flap and the doors, bonnet and bootlid open as they should. There’s no body sag and the brightwork is in excellent condition all round, with the radiator surround particularly impressive. We could find no evidence of filler or overspray, the wheels, windows tyres and hood are all in good order and discreet flashing indicators have been fitted.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

It’s a bit cramped in here but everything is at it should be. The seat leather has been replaced with what appears to be a vinyl-type material, but it looks in-keeping. The door trims and pockets have also been replaced and the rubber floor covering is in good order. The instruments – speedometer, oil pressure gauge and ammeter – are all original and appear to work well, as do the steering wheel-mounted ignition advance/retard mechanism and hand throttle. The Bakelite-style switches for lights and charge level are in good order, as is the floor-mounted starter button. The aftermarket switch under the dashboard operates the indicators.

UNDER THE BONNET

All seems fine under here – unless minor surface rust on the manifolds bothers you

– and there are no traces of overheating or leaks. The wiring and hoses all seem good and none of the fluids look like they need changing. We could neither feel nor hear any clunks or other noises.

THE CCW VIEW

This Austin Seven has obviously been deeply cherished, loved and enjoyed by the family that has owned it since 1957 and the car comes with some history. The Seven presents itself immaculately and runs beautifully – it doesn’t need any major work and even retains its original Eastbourne registration number. Arguably this would be a great buy for any enthusiast wanting an early 1930s tourer – it certainly drives extremely well and looks the part.

EXTERIOR Older restoration holding up well INTERIOR Reupholstered, but looks the part MECHANICALS All appear to be in excellent running order