1947 Austin 8 Four Door Saloon offered in our on-line Classics Auction ending 23rd Feb.

1947 Austin 8 1056cc four door saloon
In current family ownership since 1998 and only 37000 recorded and credible miles
Registration: MEV 39
Chassis: AS190418
Odometer: 37000
Transmission: Manual
MOT Expires: Exempt
No reserve
· .Original front seats in patinated brown leather
· .Service history dating back until 1954 and MOT certificates back until 1966
· .Correct steel wheels
· .Sliding steel sunroof and opening windscreen
· .Rear window sun blind fitted
· .Original specification under the bonnet
· .Drivers’ handbook
· .Fitted with a Smiths rheostat heater
· .Body restoration to the sum of £4300 circa 1995
Outside
This charming Austin 8 presents very well indeed and evidently the subject of an older restoration circa 1995. The body appears to be free of rust however there are some small stone chips on most panels and a few minor blemishes. The chrome work is serviceable but pitted in areas. The wheels are in good order with tyres with plenty of tread. Pleasingly both the opening windscreen and sliding steel sunroof are both operational.
Inside
The interior is in original specification which is quite rare with the exception of the rear seats which have been re-trimmed. The seats and door cards are without splits or tears and the headlining is undamaged. The carpets are good and the dashboard and steering wheel are without issue.
Mechanicals
The Austin whilst currently not running appears to be totally complete and as it was when put into storage. Obviously, it will require a level of recommissioning before returning to the road.
History
The history file dates back to a charming Energol service record folder that dates back to 1954 up until 1958. Documents on file indicate a body restoration amounting to circa £4300 whilst in the previous ownership around 1995.From insurance documents on file it would indicate that the Austin was still in use in 2019 and the service records would appear to support the recorded mileage of 37000.
Our opinion
This is a rare opportunity to acquire and early post war Austin that is very close in specification to how it would have left the factory in Longbridge in 1947. The condition would indicate that a gentle recommissioning would return the car to the road and provide fabulous 1940s motoring for not a lot of outlay.

[@Antonnick]

Difficult to tell but it looks like that a heater has been installed or a water pump arrangement. Both possibilities of which would have been retro fitted.

[@bertiewooster3326]

Bargain and easy to drive