SOLD: 1927 Vauxhall 20/60 R-Type Tourer

We are delighted to offer this rare and majestic “six superexcellent” Princeton Tourer for sale. Following on from the 14/40 range, the R-Type was announced by Vauxhall and commenced manufacture on the cusp of the General Motors takeover. It is widely accepted that though the models that followed suffered from cost-cutting exercises, the R-Type retained the principles of Vauxhall models prior – that of high quality. Ironically one area where GM had a positive influence on the R-Type was with the brakes. Vauxhall were known for their lacklustre stopping power and prior to the R-Type launch GM changed the design completely to cable operated four-wheel (rather than the previously proposed front-wheel only) braking, with a central mounted handbrake lever operating an adjustable band transmission brake mounted directly behind the gearbox. Pleasingly, 97 years on, the brakes pull the car up very well today!

This particular 20/60 is one of the very earliest R-Types, with the 2762cc inline 6 cylinder engine, 73mm bore, and 9 (not the typical 7) crankshaft bearings - testament to the ‘over-engineered’ Vauxhall reputation of the period. Later in 1927, the bore was increased to 75mm, increasing capacity to 2916cc, which in 1929 became the T-Type.

This particular example left the Vauxhall works in Luton early in 1927 in ‘Completely Knocked Down’ (CKD) i.e. kit form to avoid import duty, to Australia. It had the optional spoked wire wheels over the standard artillery type and was bodied by Holden of Australia. It still bears its makers plate today under the passenger footwell carpet. The car spent much of its life in Australia, before returning to the UK. Documentation shows that it was first registered in the UK on 9th January 1991.

It is largely very original and has completed many long tours around the UK whereupon it was reputedly very reliable. There is certainly a substantial degree of patination to the car overall, but it remains extremely presentable and could be bought back to total period glory quite readily. It is rather charming as is though; the most likely original ‘Vineyard Lake’ green paintwork is still able to produce a willing shine and the red leather is supple, extremely comfortable and free from scars of any consequence. The weather gear is present, still operable and includes a rear seat tonneau cover and hood cover. It has passed through the hands of notable vintage dealers, namely; Royle Cars and more latterly Malcolm C Elder & Son. Around 2017, the engine by repute was given a full inspection and top end rebuild (the bottom end was found to be in need of no work). It starts easily, sounds sweet and pulls very well indeed. Evidently the car has been loved throughout the last century and the previous custodian commented that it didn’t look out of place against 30/98 models of significant extra cost. I would add that it drives every bit as well as more prestigious marques too, with notably light and precise steering! It does indeed make for a great touring car with the added cachet of being eligible for VSCC events. All in all it really is an admirable motorcar.

£ SOLD