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.