1935 Singer 1.5 Litre Le Mans

Lot details
Registration No: BVR 33
Chassis No: LM32
Mot Expiry: July 2013

In 1934 Singer unveiled a six-cylinder version of its much vaunted Nine Le Mans. Initially credited with 48bhp, the adoption of a cross-flow cylinder head and triple SU carburettors saw the 1493cc OHC engine's output climb to a healthy 63bhp. The newcomer's double-dropped chassis featured an inch longer wheelbase plus a degree of localised lightening and strengthening with competition in mind; the bulkier engine being accommodated by moving the seats rearward. Despite distinguishing itself at the 1934 Le Mans 24-hours with 7th and 8th places overall and being priced at just £285, the model proved decidedly exclusive (only 71 1.5 Litre Le Mans Singers were produced all told).

Originally coloured Red, this remarkably original looking MKII 1.5 Litre Le Mans is now finished in Maroon over Black with Black leather upholstery. Dispatched from the factory on September 19th 1934 to the Manchester branch of Henlys, it was road registered as 'BVR 33' in September 1935. Believed by the Singer Owners' Club to have been sold new to a Mr Bailey of Newtown, Montgomeryshire, the rest of the car's early history is, however, unknown. Belonging to a Mr Tony Raynor for four years before entering the current ownership during 1982, the Le Mans has since been campaigned in classic trials and VSCC events as well as being used for general touring on the Continent and in Britain. The vendor had the Singer resprayed at the time of purchase, but accepts that it now shows "signs of use - cracks, chips etc". Regarding the leather as "nicely worn", he informs us that the "well-fettled" engine was checked over by Ian Blackburn. Treated to a decoke and general tune-up six years ago, the vendor feels it would now benefit from the same again. The powerplant is said to have no visible cracks to its cylinder head or block. Considering the car as a whole, the seller deems it to be "original, unrestored, useable and well-sorted". Thought to be the first six-cylinder Le Mans to come to auction for many years, it is now being offered complete with numerous tools, many running spares (head gasket, half-shaft, SU fuel pump, bulbs etc), green logbook, photocopies from a parts catalogue, instruction book, repair manual, spares catalogue, sundry invoices, MOT valid until July 2013 and historic class (free) tax disc valid until August 2013. The Singer's new keeper will also have the opportunity to acquire a large quantity of new and used spares by separate negotiation.