1926 Salmson AD9 Aero Engine Special

Lot details
Registration No: DS 8903
Chassis No: 15881
Mot Expiry: May 2007

Although, the idea behind it reportedly emerged almost twenty years ago, this neatly engineered special was only completed in 2004. Thought to marry the mortal remains of what was once a Salmson GS with a nine-cylinder AD9 aero engine from the same manufacturer, a not quite finished 'DS 8903' was proudly displayed at Prescott and Montlhery during 2003 (its appearance at the latter apparently helping to attract more than 1,400 signatures in support of the historic French circuit). Making the transition from spectator to competitor the following season, it participated in selected sprints (VSCC Curborough, VSCC Elvington) and hillclimbs (VSCC Harewood, Chanteloup-les-Vignes). Winner of a First Class award at Harewood (for greatest improvement against handicap in category), the two-seater is reputedly great fun to drive on the road. Though, some feel that the car's real metier would be trialling where the solid back axle and smooth power delivery would come into their own.
While, the exact origins of the radial powerplant are unclear, the salvaged chassis is rumoured to have run in CAPA events pre-World War Two before resurfacing on the Fry Brothers estate near Bristol during the 1960s. Further supposed to have been rebuilt by Vintage Sports Car Member Nev Churcher, a later mishap rendered it perfect donor material for the special. A simple ladder-framed affair equipped with leaf-sprung suspension and drum brakes, it accommodates the over-size engine surprisingly well. Introduced in the mid-1920s, the air-cooled Salmson AD9 was popular with pioneer aviators on both sides of the Atlantic (the American nicknaming it the 'Watch Charm'). Displacing 2980cc but weighing just 150lbs, it was reputed to develop 40hp @ 2,000rpm. Allied to a three-speed manual gearbox, it imbues 'DS 8903' with exciting performance (not to mention a wonderful exhaust note).
Finished in blue with blue leather upholstery, this intriguing special is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Entering the current ownership via our Stoneleigh auction in February 2005, it is since understood to have seen comparatively little usage. Thus, its engine which was professionally rebuilt prior to installation should still be relatively fresh. As anybody who has ventured into a VSCC paddock recently can attest, aero-engined specials are currently all the rage. Subtler than some and more usable than others, this pretty Salmson is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2007 and VSCC 'Buff Form'.

PLEASE NOTE: A previous owner has contacted us to say he has some spares for this vehicle, which are available by separate negotiation to the successful purchaser. A list of the spares can be viewed in the documents office.

PLEASE NOTE: We have not had this vehicle running.