Austin Sevens are deservedly popular and this lovely 1935 Ruby is another good example of why they have such a strong following. It is on chassis number ARR 288498with and still wears its correct EOK662 registration number. We have what appears to be a comprehensive record of its ownership compiled by its last owner which starts with its original buff card log book issued on 5th October 1938 which shows its first owner as The Yenton Garage Co. Ltd. in Birmingham which I assume was an agent or a dealer as one of their badges is attached to the Pytchley metal sliding roof. Within 4 days the car was registered to insurance company Liverpool London and Globe and so the list of owners (which also includes a green card log book) goes on!
There is also a reassuring file of twenty five invoices and documents recording money spent by a very recent owner which record components bought for work he did done on the car. There are also invoices to the current owner showing the cost of a total respray, a set of flashing indicators and some maintenance work on the brakes which we have just competed .
As well as being a very pretty car this Ruby is structurally very sound and is a pleasure to drive as the engine is very sweet and pulls well. The four speed gearbox is a delight to use, there are no nasty noises from the transmission or suspension and no clunks when you go into revers. It steers without wandering and importantly it also stops which is no small part down to its very effective Morris Minor hydraulic brakes!
The interior is lovely with patinated but not overworn or cracked leather upholstery, good trim panels and the winding windows all work. The headlining may well have been replaced but it looks in keeping with the car which still has its painted wood effect dashboard fitted a full set of working instruments.
In summary this Ruby is a really good little motor car which performs every bit as well as it looks. It and will be perfectly at home on country lane motoring and will also attract a lot of admiring attention at shows and rallies. It is also very sensibly priced so it represents very good value for money!
