1934 Ford Model Y Alpine Tourer by Arrow

The Model Y was produced by Ford’s British, French and German factories from 1932 until 1937 and was designed specifically for the European market, succeeding the Model A.  It became hugely popular as an inexpensive form of modern transport, easily out-competing other companies such as Morris, Austin and the like. The models were offered as two-door (Tudor) or four-door (Fordor) Saloons, with an optional sliding sun roof, and also in a light commercial van form. The Model Y is often referred to the Ford ‘Eight’ because of its 8h.p. rating.

Arrow Coachworks of Hanwell, London, made bodies for many popular 1930s car manufacturers, such as Morris, Jowett and Standard.

The body of this particular motor car was commissioned by Ford dealers W.J. Reynolds of East Ham, London, for a Ford Model Y chassis, which became the Ford Model Y Alpine Tourer.

Early history of this Ford is unknown, apart from early entries in the RF60 registration book from the 16th January 1955. The Tourer passed through various Dorset keepers until it found its way to Burts Motors, Ford dealers at Swanage, which owned the motor car from 1962, the final date entered on the RF60. There the Alpine remained until 1998, when it passed to Mr R Booth of Ford dealers Hine Motors of Shaftesbury, who set about a full nut and bolt restoration. We understand that the mechanical aspect was checked and components replaced as required, and the motor car was converted to twelve volt electrics. The exterior was repainted in a smart maroon and the interior was reupholstered in red; the carpets and weather equipment were renewed in black. Considering the size of the engine, it is an enjoyably lively four seat tourer, probably due to the lightweight and well-designed body, and is a rare model and a tempting prospect for the Ford enthusiast.

UXS 153 was featured in the December 1999 edition of Thoroughbred and Classic Cars magazine, a copy of which is included in the file, together with a copy of an article in the Ford Model Y & C Register that also features the Alpine. Photographs, the aforementioned RF60 book and the V5C registration certificate are also supplied.

Auction Date: 7 September 2017