1948 Vauxhall J-Type Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: SMV 666
Chassis No: JIB37078
Mot Expiry: None

Introduced in October 1938 the 14hp J-type was notable as the first six-cylinder Vauxhall to feature monocoque construction (a novelty at the time). Refined by GM specialist Maurice Olley, the newcomer utilized Dubonnet independent front suspension, Burman-Douglas screw and nut steering and an anti-roll bar tempered / leaf-sprung back axle. Carried over from its predecessor, the smooth 1781cc OHV six-cylinder engine gained a revised cylinder head complete with staggered valves and was allied to three-speed all-synchromesh manual transmission. Priced at £230 and reputedly capable of over 70mph, the J-type's advanced specification also included hydraulic drum brakes not to mention a telescopically adjustable steering wheel. Although, the vast majority sold were four-door saloons the model could be had as a tourer or coupe too (though, these derivatives necessitated a separate chassis design). With the exception of a few wartime staff cars production ceased between late 1939 and 1945 but was restarted thereafter and continued until 1948.

Reportedly still retaining the same black paintwork and brown leather upholstery with which it left the factory, this particular example has covered just 82,000 miles from new (a total substantiated by no fewer than forty-two old MOT certificates). Reputedly purchased as a twenty-first birthday present for its previous lady owner, the Vauxhall was used regularly by her until it failed a MOT test some four or five years ago. Updated with flashing indicators and foglights at some stage, the J-type still possesses its original semaphore indicators and square rear number plate fixing / light. The vendor describes the bodywork as "sound but becoming tatty around the edges" and the paintwork as "tired but original", while he judges the engine to be "very sound" and the interior trim to be "tatty / requires a retrim". The electrical equipment apparently works and the gearbox is said to "select all ratios". A comparatively rare survivor in need of recommissioing, this appealing 1940s Vauxhall is now looking for another long-term keeper.