1930 | Austin 7 Swallow

In 1927, William Lyons, co-founder of the Swallow Sidecar Company, saw the commercial potential of producing a re-bodied Austin 7. He initially produced an open 2-seater, followed by a Coupe (adding a hard top) and a 4-seater saloon. The Art Deco designs of the model were finished in bright two-tone colour schemes with a style befitting more expensive cars of the time. Approximately 3,500 bodies of various styles were produced up until 1932, when Lyons started making complete cars under the SS brand.

Such was the demand for the Austin Seven Swallows that Lyons was forced to move from Blackpool to new premises in Coventry in 1928. It was, in part, the success of the Swallows that laid the foundations of what was to become, by 1945, Jaguar Cars. Today the Austin 7 Swallow is recognized as effectively, the first Jaguar.

This Austin 7 Swallow Saloon was first registered SC 6440 as a 1930 model on the 28th of February 1930. SC 6440 is fitted with all the correct, period mechanical components and what looks like its original factory engine (engine number usually within 1000 of the chassis number) and the correct ancillaries. The car is in good mechanical order and driving well. The electrics have been uprated to 12 volts and discrete LED indicators have been fitted.

The original coachwork is in good solid condition has evidence of some minor repair work over the years. Finished in an original colour scheme of green and cream with a coach paint brush finish. It is presentable enough to leave as it is or, with some light panel work, a repaint and some detailing works, the car could look splendid. The interior has the correct 1930 style seats fitted, correct dash and window furniture, correct instruments and a more recently replaced headlining.

An interesting vintage motorcar that drives well and could be used as is, or have its cosmetic condition improved with some not too involved restoration work - compared to others we have seen.

The car is currently Guernsey registered. Import tax may apply (5% into the UK) and transport costs, both of which we can assist with, if required.