1924 Austin Seven Chummy Tourer

Inspired by the legendary Ford Model T, Herbert Austin used a one-model policy in the post-World War I era for his Austin cars. In the post-War depression, the Austin 20 with its 3.6-liter motor was not a strong seller. Turning in another direction, a new concept was tried - a lightweight, inexpensive, utilitarian vehicle that could appeal to the masses.

Stanley Howard edge was enlisted to help with the design of the new vehicle. The designs were completed in April of 1922 and three prototypes soon followed. The vehicle was a step above a cycle-car and offered seating for four-passengers. It had a water-cooled four-cylinder engine, three-speed sliding gear transmission, shaft drive, and four-wheel brakes. Production official commenced in July of 1922 and sold for 225 British Pounds. It was dubbed the Austin Seven, after its taxable horsepower rating, and immediately became a success. Production would continue until 1939 with nearly 291,000 examples produced.

This 1924 Austin Seven 'Chummy' Tourer was imported to the United States in 1970. Recently, it was painted in British Racing Green with black fenders and black wire wheels. There is a spare tire mounted in the rear, four wire wheels, black leather seats in the front and black vinyl in the rear, and cowl-mounted headlamps. The L-head four-cylinder engine displaces 747cc and produces a modest 12 bhp. The wheelbase is a mere 81-inches.

In 2008 this 1924 Austin Seven was brought to RM Auctions' Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook. It was estimated to sell for $20,000-$30,000 and offered without reserve. Bidding reached $12,100, including buyer's premium, and since there was no reserve the lot was sold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2008