Lot details

Year: 1930
Make: Austin
Model: Seven Swallow Saloon
Registration: GF 365
Chassis No: B970C98202
Engine No: M98450
Mileage: 3,372
•: Extremely rare
•: From a private collection

The Austin Seven Swallow is arguably the first Jaguar produced as it was designed, styled and built by William Lyons & William Walmsley at the Swallow Coachbuilding Company before it became Jaguar Cars shortly after World War II. Production of their stylish sidecars began in the workshops of their Swallow Motor Company, whilst, at the same time, Sir Herbert Austin launched the cheap and simple 'Seven' model to compete with the light cycle cars of the period. An association was formed between Austin and the Swallow Sidecar Company and, although somewhat at arms' length, each firm benefitted from the association with the Swallow coachwork giving the Seven a fashionable air that wasn't available in house at Austin. The first hand formed aluminium over wood Swallow Roadster bodies appeared on the Austin Seven chassis in 1927 with the two-door saloon being launched at The London Motor Show in October 1928. The Swallow was known for its distinctive lines, colour schemes and bold, barrel like grille shell. It's estimated that Swallow produced approximately 1,700 saloon bodies.

With very few Austin Seven Swallow saloons remaining today, we are pleased to be able to offer one of these attractive and distinctive saloons from a private collector. This Swallow is largely original; the interior displays its factory headlining that has worn well and is complemented by an attractively finished dashboard and instrument set. We are informed that the Swallow is, mechanically in very good order, and apart from routine maintenance, has wanted for nothing. The 747cc four-cylinder engine was completely rebuilt in 2000 with evidential paperwork and little mileage since. This work included a re-bore, new sleeves, valves and big end bearings, whilst the three-speed manual gearbox, is slick and works perfectly. Structurally, the Swallow appears to be excellent, and a look underneath shows an exceptionally clean chassis. The coachwork is finished in the combination of navy blue over light blue. Some of the paintwork appears cracked (no doubt due to a previous repaint some years ago) but does not detract from the overall attractive look of the car. The original Swallow mascot, mounted upon the radiator cap comes with the car and is an attractive feature. This Swallow will arrive at the sale with, a current UK V5 registration document and significant history folder. With Austin Seven Swallows becoming increasingly hard to find within the market, this must represent an ideal opportunity to acquire a rare and interesting example of the 'Seven' marque. Consigned by John Dutton