Lot 225 - 1935 Singer Nine Le Mans 'Speed'
| Lot Number | 225 |
| Registration | BYT 842 |
| Chassis Number | 62688 |
| Engine Number | 58220 |
| Odometer reading | 30,505 miles |
| Result | Sold - £29,120 |
The success of the Nine Sport at Le Mans led immediately to the introduction in 1933 of the first Le Mans model. This was the two-seater equivalent of the Nine Sports and it typified the British sports car of the 1930's. At a price of £215, an output of 34bhp and a top speed of over 70mph with the windshield lowered, it provided keen competition for its closest rivals, the J2 and P series MG's.
The Le Mans Speed model included high lift harmonic cams, a counterbalanced crankshaft and an extra large capacity ribbed oil sump for greater cooling capacity. Additional drive train modifications included a heavy-duty clutch and a closer ratio gearbox, with third gear reduced from 8.7:1 to 7.5:1. Body changes included the addition of an external mounted 12 gallon slab fuel tank, fitted with a quick action filler cap and twin rear mounted spare tyres to complete the competition look. The new upswept scuttle cowls also signaled that this was a machine that meant business on the road as well as the track.
Owned for the last 24 years by the current owner, it was acquired from Mrs. Crates of Lamberhurst in Kent and prior to 1966, it spent its entire life in Leicester. The vendor has undertaken routine maintenance over most of his tenure however, in 2009, he orchestrated a full and comprehensive overhaul. This included an engine rebuild by the Singer Workshop, a steering box and gearbox rebuild, a full re-spray in the original colour of Royal Blue, re-wire and re-chrome by specialists Ashley Motors in Hampshire. The car has not been used since this program of works and comes with full weather equipment. This charming pre-war sports car is in good order throughout and represents the most desirable specification of the marque.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.