1925 Austin 7 "Chummy" Tourer
A blue 1925 Austin 7 "Chummy" touring car arriving at and leaving Clearman's restaurants during the 2024 Holiday Motor Excursion presented by the Horseless Carriage Club (HCCA) of Southern California. Introduced in 1922, the 7 (Seven), often known as the "Baby Austin", is powered by a 747 cc four-cylinder engine and has a top speed of around 50 mph. Designed by Sir Herbert Austin with the help of Stanley Edge, it was intended to be an affordable small car to meet the needs of families and those who otherwise may not be able to own a car. With around 290,000 units built between 1922 and 1939, the Seven is still considered one of the most successful and influential cars for the British market. This example previously resided in Australia and was imported to the U.S. by its current owner in 2024.
We Americans often like to think that life in England constantly revolves around lavish castles and fancy tea ceremonies. That image is often reinforced by events like the Holiday Motor Excursion at which most of the American cars present are humble Model T Fords while almost all British cars present are big luxurious Rolls-Royces or powerful Bentleys. Well, here's a car that shatters your Disney Princess fantasies. The Austin 7 is often thought of as an English Model T equivalent, providing an affordable and economical means of motorized transportation to those who don't have the privilege of sipping Earl Grey in royal castles. Like the Model T, it was extremely popular and successful. But unlike the Model T, it was much, much smaller. This particular body style received the name "Chummy" for a reason. It almost looks like a toy next to other cars around it both antique and modern. (There was a massive 1911 Oldsmobile Limited with 43-inch wheels parked not far away. I would have loved to see the two cars side by side!) I have to say, seeing grown men climb inside is quite comical. But hey, a man who would drive this car to an event is probably a hundred times more confident and secure than anybody who buys a flashy new supercar for attention. One thing that's for sure is that wherever this little Austin goes, it's sure to bring smiles to people's faces!
Would you choose this Austin 7 over a Ford Model T? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!