Registration: GF 365

Chassis Number: B970C998202

Engine Number: M98450

Odometer reading 3370 miles

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 â Sevenâ 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 armsâ length, each firm benefitted from the association with the Swallow coachwork giving the Seven a fashionable air that wasnâ 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 grill shell. Itâ s estimated that Swallow produced approximately 1700 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, history folder and fresh MoT test certificate. With Austin Seven Swallows becoming increasingly hard to find within the market, this must represent an ideal opportunity to acquire a rare an interesting example of the â Sevenâ marque.