1949 Humber Super Snipe Mk II Drophead Coupe by Tickford

Arriving just a year before the outbreak of World War II, the Super Snipe was an amalgamation of two of Humber’s successful pre-war models, the Pullman (which supplied the four litre six cylinder engine) and the Snipe, which provided the body. Not dissimilar to its American counterparts, the Super Snipe was generally considered to be of good value, offering plenty of power combined with ample space and stylish design. During the War, production continued for the military, both as a staff car and, using the chassis as the basis, as an armoured car. The 1946 Mk I was succeeded by the redesigned, larger Mk II in 1948, which boasted seating for six (with bench seats to the front and rear), and smart design details such as one ‘pass’ lamp underneath a headlamp that produced a narrow beam for passing vehicles in the dark. The Super Snipe evolved further until the late Fifties, when a new generation of models arrived on Britain’s streets.

With only one hundred and twenty five examples produced, the Super Snipe Mk II Drophead Coupe by Tickford is a rare model today with less than thirty believed to be still in existence. ‘The Autocar’ from September 1949 commented that the two examples displayed on the Tickford stand at the Earls Court Motor Show “…combine the comfort and roominess of a saloon with the sleek line of a sports tourer…”

This particular example was the subject of an older restoration and remains in exceptional condition, having been carefully looked after in a private collection in recent years. We believe the motor car to be finished in one of the four original colours of Pearlescent Almond Green, complimented by a recently reupholstered light tan leather interior and contrasting green carpets, all of which remain in nice order. The three position hood was renewed in black mohair material and the rear compartment has a good quality beige wool headlining. The front windows have been upgraded to electric and with safety in mind, flasher-type indicators have been installed. An original HMV wireless is present and is, we are told, in working order. The chassis and underside are described as excellent, and mechanically, the Super Snipe has no known issues. The impressive and rare motor car is difficult to fault and drives as one would expect.

With few previous owners, the Humber is supplied with its V5C registration certificate and several MOT test certificates.

Please note: a large quantity of spare parts are included in the sale, to be collected by prior arrangement.

Auction Date: 3 March 2016