Highlights
• Imported from Belgium
• Left-hand Drive
• Post WW2 classic
The Background
This vehicle is a rare 1954 Singer 4AD and is one of the last of the Singer Roadster’s. It was one of the most popular cars back in the 1950s. This historic car is a left-hand drive convertible classic that was originally registered in Belgium and was imported by the current owner in 2018, back to its British roots.
The Singer Roadster was initially introduced right before World War II, but production continued until 1955. It naturally competed with the MG T-Series cars but was a little less sports car and a little more tourer.
The History
The Singer Roadster is a 9-tax horsepower, open 4-seater sports-tourer automobile manufactured by Singer Motors from 1939 to 1955. It was launched in March 1939 as an open version of Singer's Bantam saloon and using many Bantam parts. However, production was suspended for the duration of World War II, then resumed with the engine moved forward, more interior space and other minor modifications.
The Roadster was upgraded to the 4A model in 1949 with a 4-speed manual gearbox. The short lived 4AB and 4AC models were released in 1950 followed by the 4AD Roadster in 1951. The final version of the Roadster, the 4AD, was officially known as the Singer SM Roadster. This model was first seen at the October 1951 Paris Motor Show and was initially intended for export only. The 4AD can be differentiated from a 4AB by its larger, rounder bumpers, as well as bigger taillights mounted on long stalks.
Coming to a little bit of history on this particular grey Roadster (399XVE), is that it was imported from Belgium, as the owner is a classic car enthusiast. Unfortunately, due to lack of use and retirement, the owner has decided to sell the car to a keen buyer.
The Paperwork
The owner possess the original V5C document issued by the DVLA to confirm proof of ownership, specifications, addresses and history. The owner has also kept and maintained the original certificate of authenticity of the car.
Other paperwork includes the receipt of purchase, the UK registration document and ex-Dutch registration document.
The Interior
The cabin features original bucket seats upholstered in a shade of vermilion faux leather, and black carpeting.
A nice black rimmed steering wheel rests in front of an instrument panel housing Jaeger gauges, which includes a 150 kmph speedometer along with oil pressure, amperage, and fuel level gauges. The current owner has requested to note that the fuel gauge when shows quarter-full means nearly empty.
The Exterior
The silver-grey paintwork is well chosen for a car of this era, and the bodywork is well-maintained. What stands out most about this car is its unusual shape, making it even more striking because of the car's petiteness, and taken together, this Doctor's Coupe style car is an enchanting and unique piece of motoring history.
Additionally, the car has 16 inch bolt on steel disc wheels that are in good condition.
The Mechanics
This classic has a 4-cylinder 1,497 cc engine with a 4- speed gear box and can roughly produce 48 horsepower. It has got the Burman high efficiency steering system. The previous owners converted the engine to an unleaded cylinder head, in addition to new valve guides installed.
According to the current owner, the car is complete, and the engine runs well without any leaks or problems. The chassis appears to be in good order; however, the rear axle isn’t original. The vehicle has a brand-new aluminium fuel tank and 12-volt fuel pump, fitted hydraulic brakes, a new exhaust and silencer, and has new piston rings installed.
The Appeal
Singer Motors was the third-largest UK car manufacturer, but in 2021 their cars have become incredibly rare. This car is pretty much a unique vehicle and really fun to drive drawing admirers everywhere. The Singer Roadster 4AD classic represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of motoring history for the vintage enthusiast.
“A lively open tourer that can be driven as is and can be improved as you go along.” -Owners quote.
Notice to bidders
This vehicle is subject to third party financing. The amount of finance due on the vehicle is less than the reserve. The seller will discharge the financing debt and all related costs absolutely within two full working days from the end of the auction on a successful sale and will confirm to the buyer that such release has occurred. This obligation will be implied into the contract of sale between the buyer and the seller on auction close.
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
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