1960 Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire Saloon, Registration no. not registered Chassis no. 467727

Odometer reading: TBC
MOT: N/A

*One of the last Armstrong Siddeley motor cars made
*Previously registered in the Netherlands
*Present ownership since 2016

In 1952, Armstrong Siddeley launched the all-new '346 Sapphire' saloon, which had been developed with input from the great W O Bentley. A large, refined six-seater powered by an advanced 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine, the Sapphire was an instant success and set new standards of performance and quality for Armstrong Siddeley. By 1957, sales were in decline and Armstrong Siddeley responded with what would be the final variant, the extensively revised and improved Star Sapphire, the intention being to create an even more effective competitor in the luxury car market. Engine capacity increased to 4.0 litres, a Borg Warner three-speed automatic gearbox was the only transmission on offer, and the Star became the first Armstrong Siddeley to incorporate disc brakes (Girlings at the front). Power assisted steering was standard. So well received was this new model, that the Star was awarded the Gold Medal and the Institute of British Carriage and Automobile Manufacturers 1st Prize award for cars in its price range. Indeed, many knowledgeable enthusiasts consider these Star Sapphires to be the finest of all Armstrong Siddeley motor cars. Manufacture of Armstrong Siddeley cars ceased in 1960 when the company decided to concentrate on the aviation side of its business, by which time only 902 production Star Sapphires had been completed. Today survivors of this elegant model are both rare and highly sought after.
Purchased from a Dutch enthusiast in November 2016, this late Star Sapphire comes with photocopies of the purchase receipt; its Netherlands registration document; two service voucher books (blank); and a Dutch magazine featuring the car.
The motor car has 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