1926 Austin Seven AD

The Austin 7, when it was first introduced in 1922, represented the freedom of the open road, the ability to go to places you simply couldn't get to on public transport, it was the opening up of a whole new world for people who could afford one. It was sort of like Britain's equivalent of the American Model T Ford, except a little smaller, and a little cheaper to run, but still loads of fun. Herbert Austin was determined to build a “real car” that was small enough, and inexpensive enough for people in the middle and professional classes to afford. The idea for the Austin 7 was born. Curiously this history would partly repeat itself in the years after the Second World War and result in the creation of the Austin/Morris Mini.

For consignment, a cracking little car that was built for the masses, we give you a 1926 Austin Seven AD, (the AD was thought to stand for ADventure!). This shiny little convertible can seat 4 or even 5 if one is a bit smaller in stature for the back seat. It is in very nice condition overall so let's check out the British version of the model T. And all from a company which would eventually lead to the creation of Jaguar.

Exterior
An all steel body is led by a black radiator surround with an Austin badge, temp gauge radiator topper and a hand crank. A small steel plate would serve as the bumper if you will, and shows a bit of rust. Flanking the radiator on either side are curvaceous black fenders which eventually turn into running boards and move rearward into a small back fender framing the rear spoked wheels. These all present in black, just like the firewall exterior mounted headlights just below a shiny window frame. The body is all rust free and is bathed in red, from the bonnet to the doors and side panels, and the back of the car which has a spare tyre attached to another black steel plate bumper. On top is a canvas folding top which opens up the entire cockpit to the fresh air. This is a contrasting beige color canvas and is in very nice condition and includes a small rear window. Nice and tidy, a mini model T and decidedly British.

Interior
A right hand drive car and really the first car to utilize a 3 pedal setup which included a petrol pedal, brake pedal and a clutch. ( Model T's used pedals to shift and are somewhat confusing to drive comparatively). The doors are covered in smooth black vinyl as are the padded and tuck and rolled bomber styled buckets in front and a bench for the back. A simple black full metal jacket dash houses a few instruments and is fronted by a large steering wheel with a throttle lever firmly placed in its center. On the black carpet and rubber floors we see a handbrake which operates the front brakes, and the rear braking is reserved for the floor pedal. A horizontal shift lever reaches for the driver's left hand. A view of the inside of the top reveals black framing and clean beige canvas above.

Drivetrain
Under the cowled bonnet is a snappy little flathead 4 cylinder engine which measures out to be 747cc's it pumps out 10.5hp, is fed by a 1 barrel carburetor, and has a 3 speed manual transmission. The overall engine bay is in nicely preserved condition, and consignor states that although it currently does not start due to needing a new starter, the car will run well. On the back is a 4.4 rear axle.

Undercarriage
On the bottom we can see some patina black paint but very little rust. On front the ride is provided by transverse leaf springs, and the rear takes on quarter elliptical leaf springs. Mechanical drum brakes are on all 4 corners and these are in the center of 19 inch wire wheels. The exhaust system is in good condition.

Drive-ability
With a new starter installed as well a as a fresh battery and some fuel this old girl fired right up and off to the test track I went. Here it exhibited good acceleration and on par braking and handling for a car of its era. A bit small on the inside for this larger than life writer but once inside and acclimated it was quite a comfortable cruise.

"Nearly everybody's got a motor car today
Whatever make it is, it's the best of all, they say.
Well you can keep your 'Austin Cowley' and your 'Essex Six'
Believe me, they're not in it with my little bag of tricks
It's an Austin Seven, a little baby Austin
The cutest little car upon the road…"

From a 1932 song written and sung by Clarkson rose, it sums it up nicely. Not oft seen from jolly old England, with a new starter will provide eye-catching looks and plenty of enjoyment..Cheerio!

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 650 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.