From the Vintage Postbag, December 1951

From the Vintage Postbag

-Sir,

Knowing your interest in vintage cars, I append a few details of a recent acquisition of mine which may interest you. It is a 1925 four-cylinder, 8.3-1t.p. Renault, bore 58 mm., stroke 90 mm., but I expect you know the specification well enough.

It has a clover-leaf body (11 think this is the correct description), disc wheels. F.W.B., and 13.E. tyres, and starts first kick on starter or handle. I bought it from a 7:5-year-old, who was the original purchaser, and who also runs a 1927 “40/50 ” Rolls. He used the Renault for local journeys until I bought it, and it ‘shows 30,000 on the clock ; which, judging by its mechanical condition, is quite genuine. The body was sound but paintless, and is now being painted royal blue, with authentic lining in red (original -colour, buff with black lines). It is also having a new hood before being put to use as local transport (and more probably), in addition to the sports car I shall be racing next season. Among the spares was a Still wrapped new tyre, pronounced by the experts to be in perfect condition ; new tubes ; a magneto (spare) which looks as if it has just been taken from the shelves of the manufacturers: gaskets ; and most of the original tools, etc. Also instruction books in French. and English, which I would be prepared to loan to really -deserving cases (Quote : ” All operations • connected with the lubrication and maintenance are reduced to a minimum.” Later, under daily lubrication : ” Take up footboards, etc., etc.” Also eight grease nipples are mentioned for attention daily !)

I had not seen one of these cars on the road for years–until the day before I collected mine, when I 871W an amateurpainted red one in Notting Hill Gate. 1 am, Yours, etc.,

TEn POOL.

London, W.11.