1949 Humber Super Snipe MkII, Coachwork by Coachwork by Tickford Registration no. GAK 687 Chassis no. 8801844

Odometer reading: TBC
MOT: N/A

*Rare survivor of Humber's top-of-the-range model
*One of only 44 built
*Restored in the early 2000s

Already the majority shareholder in the combined Hillman/Humber concern, Rootes completed its takeover in 1931. Under Rootes' guidance, Hillman concentrated on models with mass-market appeal while Humber was pitched at a wealthier clientele. The Super Snipe first appeared in the late 1930s, finding a ready market within the ranks of Civil Service officialdom and the middle class professions, and continued in mildly face-lifted form post-WW2. In 1948 the Super Snipe underwent a more extensive revision, emerging as the longer and wider MkII, though still with the 4.1-litre six-cylinder sidevalve engine producing 100bhp. Styled with the assistance of Raymond Loewy's design studio, the MkII featured a new front end, while, perhaps surprisingly, running boards were reinstated. A touring limousine and a drophead coupé were available alongside the standard four-door saloon.
The car offered here is one of only 44 drophead coupés built on the Super Snipe MkII chassis, of which only seven (not all in roadworthy condition) are known to survive. The 36th of the series, 'GAK 687' was delivered new to J C France & Co of Dewsbury on 18th November 1949. The Humber was restored to its present condition in the early 2000s and acquired by the current owner from Justin Banks in June 2004. 'GAK 687' comes with a history file containing copies of numerous invoices for parts used in its restoration; four MoTs (most recent expired 2005); an old-style V5C Registration Certificate; and an original Tickford brochure.
The Humberhas been on static display for a number of years and as such will require recommissioning prior to road use. Please also note this Lot is subject to UK import tax at the reduced rate of 5% if it is to remain in the UK.

Vendor Score Total: 58 /100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 15 /25
Body Work: 3
Paint: 3
Glass: 3
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 3

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 12 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 3
Axles: 3
Suspension: 3
Brakes: 3

INTERIOR TOTAL: 12 /20
Seats: 3
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 3
Headlining: 3
Trim: 3

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 6 /10
Main components: 3
Ancillary components: 3

ENGINE TOTAL: 12 /20
Starting: 3
Running: 3
Under Bonnet: 3
Mechanical components: 3

Car History File: 1