AUSTIN SEVEN (1922-39)
SEE IT AT GRIMSTHORPE VINTAGE SPEED TRIALS
Is there a more charming pre-war classic than the Austin 7? Designed by Herbert Austin, it took a while for motorists to warm to those charms, but once they did sales took off and more than 290,000 examples would be sold.
Available in a wealth of body styles, including saloon and tourer, the delightful Seven offered simple, affordable motoring – something it still does very well today. And don’t let the modest power and performance put you off – original 696cc models managed just 7hp so later engines are a better bet – because the characterful Austin is guaranteed to put a big smile on your face, plus it’s easy to fix and benefits from a hugely enthusiastic ownership scene and excellent specialist support.
The diddy Brit was also well-suited to competition, and there are all manner of modified ‘specials’ out there to prove it. Which brings us rather neatly to this cracking event. It centres on a half-mile sprint for pre-1939 cars, motorcycles and racers, so the Seven will be right at home, and watching the pair of Ulsters take to the course will be a real treat. One is a 1934 model that’s been the subject of a threeyear restoration, while the other hails from 1930 and was restored over five years using a 1930 chassis, the original engine, and a body by Roach Manufacturing. Oh yes, and the Course Car is a rather lovely Austin 7 Chummy.
What makes the Grimsthorpe Speed Trials so entertaining is that spectators can get up close to the action, lining the entire length of the track as the fascinating selection of pre-war vehicles race from the castle to the main gate. If it’s evocative sights and smells you’re after, this is one bank holiday event that you won’t want to miss. It’s a great venue, too, Grimsthorpe Castle being the scene of Reliability Trials as far back as 1903, so the place is steeped in motoring history.
Alongside the Speed Trials there’s plenty more for visitors to enjoy, from mixing with owners and other enthusiasts in the paddock where some exceptional classics are promised, to admiring the terrific range of vehicles that make up the classic car park. And you can always immerse yourself in the pre-war theme by choosing period attire, helping to celebrate the Austin Seven in style.