Information and History

The 1938 Austin Seven Boat Tail is an iconic British car model that played a crucial role in the development of the automotive industry during the first half of the 20th century. It was originally launched in 1922 by the Austin Motor Company and was produced until 1939. Often referred to as the "Baby Austin," the model was particularly significant for making car ownership accessible to a broader segment of the population, thanks to its compact size and affordable price. The "Boattail" variant refers to a specific body style where the rear end of the car tapers to a point, reminiscent of a boat's stern.

The 1938 model of the Austin Seven was one of the last produced before the series was discontinued. It was equipped with a 747 cc four-cylinder engine that produced about 10 horsepower, giving the car a top speed of around 80 km/h (50 mph) – a respectable performance for its time.

This specific 1938 Austin Seven was imported from England to Sweden in 2021 and has had only one owner in Sweden. The current owner purchased the car in a restored condition directly from England. In 2023, it won the "Most Outstanding Car" award at the Forsmark Meet, where over 500 cars participated.

Condition

According to the seller, the body of this 1938 Austin Seven Boat Tail is in very good condition. There are no dents or major scratches, and the car is free of rust. The paint, applied during a comprehensive restoration completed in 2010, is in very good condition, although there are a few minor stone chips on the rear fender. The chrome trim and lamp glasses are in excellent condition. The seller notes that the left rear wheel is slightly out of alignment, but this should not affect the driving. The tires are brand new with white sidewalls.

The interior is reported to be in very good condition with no damage to the seats, and everything in the cabin functions as it should. The engine, according to the seller, is lively, starts easily, does not consume oil, and runs very smoothly. The car is equipped with a Solex carburetor installed during the restoration. The gearbox and drivetrain are described as being in good condition, and the brakes are functioning properly. Since the restoration, the car has only been driven a few hundred miles.

Service History

The current owner states that he changes the oil and performs routine lubrication every spring, including this year. The radiator is filled with the correct amount of antifreeze. Although there is no service book, the owner has personally handled all vehicle maintenance. There is extensive documentation from the restoration. The car underwent a registration inspection in March 2021 without any remarks and is now exempt from inspection. It has passed without any issues for eleven years.

Summary

The 1938 Austin Seven came with several improvements compared to earlier versions, including better brakes and a more refined interior. This model year marked the end of an era, as Austin shifted focus after 1939 to newer models like the Austin Eight, which featured a larger engine and more modern design. This Boat Tail example is in top restored condition and ready for new adventures!