1934 Austin Seven Special

Highlights

• Fabulous Special with detailed build history
• One-off Special built in 1959 with bespoke interior
• Brass radiator and extensive brass detailing throughout
• Engine enlarged to 885cc during build
• Starter motor recently refurbished
• Dry stored since purchase in 2022

The Appeal

America had its hot rods, Britain had its Seven Specials, two very different types of car united by a simple idea to make what factory standard cars both better and highly individual. Where the US cars were built for drag racing and street light burnouts, the Austins were often constructed for off-road trialling, and we suspect that was the goal for this lovely little ‘34 when it was built between 1959 and 1962.

In 1990 the car’s builder helpfully provided four pages of densely handwritten notes carefully documenting the work and its inspiration. That letter is included in the car’s history. The result of his diligence is the evocative car you see in the photos. With its cut-down screens and sides, lightweight cycle wings and custom two-seat bodywork, this Seven is a long way from its factory origins yet looks purposeful and pretty. It appears to have changed little since the work was completed, so inevitably there are some points to note in the photos, but that patina arguably adds to its appeal. We particularly like the lovely detailed interior with its light blue bucket seats and bespoke ‘Austin Seven Special’ wheel boss. Elsewhere, the brass work gleams. It’s clear how much love went into building this.

Beneath the bonnet is an Austin Seven engine that was bored out to 885cc during the build. The notes record that the car was built from seven donor cars and the mechanicals were rebuilt during the process.

The vendor acquired the car in 2022 and tells us that it has been dry stored ever since. It is said to run and drive well and benefits from a recently fitted new starter motor. The vendor assures us it is great fun to drive. For those seeking a characterful and distinctive pre-war special with charm to spare, this Austin Seven warrants a closer look.

The vendor says:

“This car is the best fun you will not be able to stop smiling It attracts so much attention because it is such a beautiful vehicle.”

Key Information

• Mileage: 5,302 miles indicated (total mileage may be higher due to age)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
• Technical specs: 885cc four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual
• Paperwork: V5C, four-page letter dated 1990 from builder

The Detail

• Bespoke special built between 1959 and 1962 using seven donor cars
• Built with input from a chief engineer of Meccano
• Finished in blue with black cycle wings and cut-down screen and sides
• Appears to be very original following build
• Due to age of car paintwork and bodywork show some age
• This includes paint chips and some bubbling to doors
• Many parts replaced with brass as part of the 1959 rebuild
• Attractive brasswork including radiator
• Fitted with painted wire wheels with aged Firestone tyres
• Bespoke interior with wood veneer dashboard and classic dials
• Light blue bucket seats show some age but are presentable
• Bespoke three-spoke wheel with handmade ‘Austin Seven Special’ centre boss
• Supplied with black tonneau as shown

BEFORE YOU BUY

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