1911 AC Sociable - Brightwells Classic Car & Motorcycle Auction Closing Thursday 5th August from 7pm

      

 

Welcome back to Classic Chatter and our look at what is coming to auction in the UK.

It's been a difficult time for everyone over the last 18 months but the future looks better and we all hope normality is just around the corner.

OUR FEATURED AUCTION

Brightwells

Classic Car & Motorcycle Auction

Closing Thursday 5th August from 7pm

Online Auction

1911 AC Sociable

Lot No: 5

Registration No: S8612

Chassis No: 1414

 Engine No: 439

Body Colour: N/S

 

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Estimate: £14,000-16,000

Incredibly rare machine; from the Ken Norton collection; competed in the Banbury run in 2017 and Pioneer runs of 1985 and 1987

‘The car that leads the fashion in the new motoring  - The A.C.Sociable’ The Cyclecar, December 1912.

This lovely Auto-Carriers Sociable three-wheeled machine was first registered in 1911 in Edinburgh - on the registration it still wears today, S 8612. It is understood that the first owner is likely to have been a J.H.Farr of Scotland (although no document to prove). Having just two further recorded keepers in the 1970s and 80s, our vendor, Mr Kenneth Norton acquired the AC in 1984, after it had been stored in a barn for ten years, mostly present and correct but in need of some sympathetic restoration.

Photographs show the AC when it was bought by our vendor, in quite a state. It appeared complete and original with the absence of the hood, front tyres and no doubt some of the upholstery. Bought from a Joseph Henry Hubbard in Uttoxeter for £1,250, work was immediately started by our vendor, the car passing an MOT the following year in 1985 - taking part in the Sunbeam MCC Pioneer Run the same year and again in 1987.

During that time, a hood was fitted, which provided a little more useability. There would of course have been one originally fitted which was unusual for the early Cyclecars. In fact, the marketing of the Sociable called it the ‘ideal winter vehicle’ compared to others available at the time.

“Compare the protection with that obtained from a motorcycle and side-car – and then make your choice” The CycleCar, December 1912.

There is a lot of correspondence on file between Mr Norton and various AC owners around the world, as he appears to have needed a new rear wheel and was thinking of replacing the engine, although this does not appear to have happened as the number currently on the engine matches the original paperwork.  

Understood to have been shown at many events over the years and more recently taking part in the Banbury run of 2017, this AC Sociable has been resting for the last few years, mainly due to the unfortunate ill health of our vendor, so is sure to need some re-commissioning.

S 8612 (which remains transferable), Car Number 1414, is reluctantly offered for sale after long term ownership and hopes to find someone else to care for her for another generation. A truly rare opportunity to own what is surely one of very few Sociables still registered in the world and possibly one of a very small handful in the UK.

It should also be noted that there is a trailer included with this lot, which has been used specifically to transport the AC over the years.

   Source:  https://www.brightwellslive.com/lot/details/529774

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Disclaimer:  Whilst Classic Chatter ("we") attempts to make sure that the information contained in this website is accurate and complete, we are aware that some errors and omissions may occur from time to time. We are not able, therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries about any information on our website, please contact us at  jeff.classicchatter@mail.com

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1962 AC GREYHOUND BRISTOL - BONHAMS AUCTIONS Bonhams MPH November Sale Bicester Heritage, Bicester Tuesday 26th November 2019

https://www.classicchatter.co.uk/events-guide

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FEATURED AUCTION

BONHAMS AUCTIONS

Bonhams MPH

November Sale

Bicester Heritage, Bicester

Tuesday 26th

November 2019

1962 AC GREYHOUND BRISTOL

Registration no. 240 YPJ

Chassis no. BEF2566

*Restored by specialist 20 years ago and re-painted this year

*Bristol engine rebuilt

*Extensive history

Odometer Reading: 61,000

MOT Expiry: 21/08/2020

While the pre-Cobra AC Ace remains overshadowed by its more powerful successor, another AC – one from the same period with true grand touring capabilities – also brought together two great British car-making names in one attractive package. Step forward the AC Greyhound, whose manufacturer looked to Bristol to supply engines. The result was a rapid, well-engineered not to say good-looking offering. Restored around 20 years ago by noted Bristol specialist Spencer Lane-Jones (over 570 hours!), this UK-supplied Greyhound has a comprehensive history and has received much attention more recently. It is fitted with the Bristol 2.2-litre inline six, the engine which experts say best suits the Greyhound's character, and is coupled to a Bristol (overdrive) gearbox. Following on from the restoration, more recently (2019) it has been re-painted in Aston Martin Dunhill Silver, a shade that complements the body's lines, while the lack of bumpers lends a more purposeful air and evoking images of when these models were used in rallies. Ideally suiting the silver bodywork is a red interior, which is in wonderfully, lightly patinated order with no signs of modification, and remains eminently usable. At the wooden dashboard is especially appealing with its full complement of instruments, below which sits a period radio. At the heart of any Greyhound is the engine, and this car was re-built to almost 100S specification (which translates into around 125bhp) and is said to be very good. Running gear too is in good order, other than the brakes which could benefit from some attention. Adding to this car's appeal is its immense history, which runs to two box files and includes the original 1960 buff logbook, as well as photographs and notes taken during the restoration work.

Footnotes

• Vendor Score Total: 66/100
  
  
  Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.
  
  
  Key for sellers' assessments:
  1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
  2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
  3/5 GOOD. Driveaway | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
  4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
  5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well
  
  
  EXTERIOR TOTAL: 21/25
  Body Work: 5
  Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 5
  Glass: 3
  Paint: 3
  Wheels/Tyres: 5
  
  
  INTERIOR TOTAL: 11/20
  Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 2
  Headlining: 3
  Seats: 3
  Trim: 3
  
  
  ENGINE TOTAL: 14/20
  Mechanical components: 4
  Running: 4
  Starting: 3
  Under Bonnet: 3
  
  
  RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 11/20
  Axles: 3
  Brakes: 3
  Gearbox/Clutch: 3
  Suspension: 2
  
  
  ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 6/10
  Ancillary components: 3
  Main components: 3
  
  
  Car History File: 3

• 

  
  

SOURCE: https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/25825/lot/107/

   Whilst Classic Chatter ("we") attempt to make sure that the information contained in this website is accurate and complete, we are aware that some errors and omissions may occur from time to time. We are not able, therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries concerning any information on our website, please contact us at  jeff.classicchatter@mail.com

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1951 AC 2-LITRE SALOON - BONHAMS AUCTIONS Collector's Cars & Automobilia Sale RAF Museum Hendon Thursday 21st November 2019

https://www.classicchatter.co.uk/events-guide

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FEATURED AUCTION

BONHAMS AUCTIONS

Collector's Cars & Automobilia Sale

RAF Museum Hendon

Thursday 21st November 2019

1951 AC 2-LITRE SALOON

Registration no. UXG 747

Chassis no. EL1562

• Introduced in 1947, the AC 2-Litre was a spacious and well-equipped touring car endowed with respectable (80mph) performance courtesy of the firm's long-established and ruggedly built overhead-cam six. Breathing through triple SU carburettors, the 1,991cc engine produced 76bhp and was coupled to a four-speed Moss gearbox. A variety of body styles - some coachbuilt - were available on the 2-Litre chassis, including a four-door model from late 1952. Production continued, to special order only, until 1958, by which time approximately 1,200 had been produced.
  
  
  Previously registered 'LXL 261', this AC 2-Litre saloon was first registered on 2nd January 1951 to a Mr Poutney of the Meyer Liquid Company, London W1. The current vendor purchased the car at a regional auction in May 2006 when it was described as "an older restoration... stored virtually unused for a year and could do with a tune up. Said to be in good and tidy order generally". Contained within a large box file, accompanying documentation includes a (copy) buff logbook listing previous keepers in the 1970s; sundry 1980s bills from AC Cars; a quantity of expired MoTs; a V5C Registration Certificate; and MoT to July 2020. The car also comes with a (copy) AC owner's handbook and a copy of Leo Archibald's book, AC Two-Litre Saloons & Buckland Sports Cars. The vendor advises us that the engine would benefit from attention (points, etc) to improve running.

SOURCE: https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/25448/lot/203/

   Whilst Classic Chatter ("we") attempt to make sure that the information contained in this website is accurate and complete, we are aware that some errors and omissions may occur from time to time. We are not able, therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries concerning any information on our website, please contact us at  jeff.classicchatter@mail.com

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1960 AC ACECA - SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS The Heythrop Classic Car Sale Heythrop Park, Enstone, Chipping Norton, OX7 5UF SATURDAY 11th MAY 2019

https://www.classicchatter.co.uk/events-guide

FEATURED AUCTION

SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS
The Heythrop Classic Car Sale
Heythrop Park, Enstone, Chipping Norton, OX7 5UF
SATURDAY 11th MAY 2019

1960 AC ACECA

Registration: RPN 626

Chassis Number: AE743

Engine Number: CLB2431 WT

Number of cylinders: 6

Year of Manufacture: 1960

RHD/LHD: Right Hand Drive

Estimate (£): 110,000 - 130,000

(+buyer's premium of 15% including VAT @ 20%)

• #AE743 is a UK-delivered, right-hand drive AC Aceca originally ordered in Mist Green with green leather
• Owned by our vendor for the past seven years, having purchased it, fully restored, from a Mr Humphries in 2012 
• Mr Humphries bought this Aceca to restore with the intention of making it "the best in the world"
• Engine completely rebuilt by Hurley Engine Services. Water jacket and crankshaft modified by Rod Briggs
• Superbly finished in Javelin Grey. Completely new tan leather interior by David Nightingale
• This is a rare and desirable motor car and represents exceptional value for money

Following WWII and in an effort to modernise their lineup, AC was keen to replace the trusty Weller-designed, overhead cam, six-cylinder, two-litre 85bhp engine, which was first used in 1919. The company met John Tojeiro, chassis engineer and racing car designer, and an existing tried and tested the design of his (Cliff Davis' little sports-racer) was purchased and modified for road use. The new model, named the Ace, used a strong 76-mm tubular ladder frame chassis with transverse leaf and wishbone independent suspension front and rear but for the time being, retained AC's own venerable, 2.0-litre, long-stroke six. The light aluminium bodywork bore more than a passing resemblance to Ferrari's pretty 166 Barchetta, however, the car's styling was right up to date, and incredibly handsome if somewhat derivative. Announced in 1953, deliveries of the first 85-bhp Ace from Thames Ditton were not available until April 1954. The Motor magazine claimed 0-60 mph in 11.4 seconds and 103 mph with 25.3 mpg. A total of 223 AC-engined Aces were built, weighing in at 1,685 lbs and carrying an initial price tag of £1,439.

The AC Aceca, a three-door and very sleek fastback, was previewed in 1954 becoming one of the very first hatchbacks along with the new 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4. Deliveries were delayed until January 1955, and eventually, only 151 AC-engined Acecas were built. Unlike the Ace, the Aceca had wood-framed doors, was slightly heavier at 1,840 lbs, and to reduce noise levels within the cabin, AC mounted all major components on rubber bushes. The performance was respectable, if not outstanding, but the combination of a fine-handling chassis, lightweight, and classic good looks resulted in a desirable GT in the best AC tradition.

According to the AC Aceca Registrar, 'AE743' is a UK delivered, right-hand drive AC Aceca originally ordered in Mist Green (one of only six ever finished in that colour) with a green leather interior. The engine is the original six-cylinder AC unit (CLB2431W7) fitted from new. Our private vendor has owned 'RPN 626' for the past seven years, having purchased it, fully restored, from a Mr Humphries in 2012 and the V5 shows only three owners prior to him.

According to correspondence in the history file, Mr Humphries bought this Aceca to restore with the intention of making it "the best in the world". At the time of his purchase, he owned three garages in and around Bath and he tasked one of his long-standing technicians with the responsibility of returning RPN 626 to its very best. However, all major works requiring specialist skills were contracted out to various experts in the marque including Spencer Lane-Jones, TT Workshop, Rod Briggs, Hurley Engine Services, and David Nightingale.

A brief summary of the detail of the restoration is below:

• Engine: completely rebuilt by Hurley Engine Services. Water jacket and crankshaft modified by Rod Briggs.
• Chassis and Bodywork: cleaned and powder coated, bare metal repaint in Javelin Grey, all new interior alloy panels.
• Interior: completely new tan leather interior, headlining and carpets by David Nightingale. All dashboard wood replaced by the 'Posh Dash Co'.
• Gearbox: overhauled by the TT Workshop.
• Rear axle: stripped, checked and reassembled with all new seals and joints. Prop shaft, driveshaft and universal joints stripped, cleaned and reassembled.
• Suspension: all parts stripped, cleaned and powder coated, reassembled with new parts as required. All wheel-hubs and bearings replaced. 
• Brakes: new shoes, wheel cylinders, brake drums, master cylinder, handbrake and ratchet with a new cable. New clutch assembly and master cylinder. 
• Electrics: new wiring loom, new front and rear headlights, new dynamo and new battery.

The results of this long-term attention by talented people are remarkable and the car's post-restoration freshness has been retained during our vendors seven years caring ownership. Indeed, at the time of writing, the car has been sent to a local specialist to make sure that it's on the button and ready to go for the auction in May.

In conclusion, this AC Aceca seems to tick all the boxes in terms of usability and rarity and Silverstone Auctions are proud to offer this stunning example to the open market for the first time in many years. Accompanied by the aforementioned history file, including its instruction manual, this is a rare and desirable motor car and represents exceptional value for money.

SOURCE: http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/1960-ac-aceca

SELECTED BY IDRIS SQUIRREL

I'M NUTS ABOUT CLASSICS

Disclaimer:  Whilst Classic Chatter ("we") attempt to make sure that the information contained in this website is accurate and complete, we are aware that some errors and omissions may occur from time to time. We are not able, therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries with regard to any information on our website, please contact us at  jeff.classicchatter@mail.com

CLASSIC CHATTER

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