1936 Austin 7 Opal Tourer

Much has been written about the Austin Seven, the 747cc side valve 4 cylinder engine, the wheelbase of 6’3” (6’9” from late 1931) and the overall length of just 10’6” usually. The ‘jewels’ in the model range include the Ruby, the Pearl and as offered here, the Opal.

Designed as a tourer for two persons, the Opal turns heads and creates a throng of enthusiasts when parked, perhaps because of its relative rarity. As with all Sevens, it is light and easy to drive and has an adequate performance with little thirst. Repairs tend to be simple and spare parts plentiful, due to the excellent support from the Owner’s Club. Even if a breakdown should occur, there is a sporting chance that a roadside fix will be possible, as against the average ‘modern’ where there is little point in even opening the bonnet. The fuel for a Seven flows sometimes by gravity from a scuttle mounted tank to the carburettor, although later models have a simple pump.

DPK 160 is part of a private collection and appears to be generally good, with tidy bodywork and interior. The hood is servicable but the sidescreens are absent. Mechanically all looks present and correct but as no battery is fitted, we can only recommend that a period of re-commissioning is carried out once the motor car is safely home. 

The motor car is offered with the V5C registration certificate, an older V5 document, showing the Austin was acquired by the current family in November 1997, RF60 and VE60 registration books, plus various invoices and old MOT test certificates. 

Auction Date: 11 July 2019