Lot details Registration No: JW 966 Chassis No: LDS21 Mot Expiry: March 2008
Among the multitude of motorcar manufacturers that sprang up in the West Midlands at the dawn of the twentieth century, the Star Motor Co Ltd was notable for the diversity and quality of its product range. Indeed, it was the company's slavish devotion to excellence and abhorrence of proprietary components (chassis frames apart) that would prove its undoing. Forced into the arms of Guy Motors during 1928, the Wolverhampton-based firm simply could not or would not embrace a mass production ethos. A last ditch attempt at salvation, the Comet 14 was introduced in 1931. The last new model Star would ever bring to market it succeeded in boosting output but only because the company was losing money on each one sold. Based around a sturdy ladder-frame chassis equipped with all-round independent suspension and four-wheel drum brakes, it could be had in saloon, coupe or tourer guises. Powered by a 2100cc OHV straight-six engine, the 14hp delivered respectable performance and decent fuel economy. Predictably short-lived, the 'Little Comet' was discontinued with the arrival of the receivers in April 1932.
Finished in blue over black with blue leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Ordered on October 1st 1931 and despatched by the Works a little over two months later, chassis 'LDS21' is believed but not warranted to be the sole surviving Comet 14hp Tourer. Reportedly restored during the 1980s and reregistered in 1991, the Star is understood to have covered just 433 miles since work was completed. Said to "drive and stop well", this rare 1930s Tourer is offered for sale with workshop manual and MOT certificate valid until March 2008.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle is fitted with non-independent suspension and not an 'all-independent' set-up as incorrectly suggested by the catalogue.
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