1935 Humber Vogue Pillarless Sports Saloon

With just fourteen examples known to the Humber Car Club, the beautifully designed Vogue is a rare and special survivor, powered by a 1.7 four cylinder engine which could apparently reach 70mph. This particular model was purchased by its late owner in 2007 and although there was not much information available on its history at the time, it had been restored previously, possibly in the Eighties. The Dove Grey coachwork on this car was the only other colour on offer when it was built, along with the ubiquitous black of course, and the Cherry Red leather upholstery contrasts and compliments.  We understand that the front seats have been rebuilt and reupholstered since 2007, the rear shock absorbers have been replaced, the single valve springs have been replaced with the more efficient doubles and the exhaust system is stainless steel. The motor car has been well maintained in the last seventeen years and was clearly cherished by its owner.

In 2013, the Humber appeared in an ITV documentary on Agatha Christie and was driven across Dartmoor by none other than David Suchet, a marvellous memory for its custodian. In 2018, it was featured over five pages in The Automobile magazine and it is Stefan Marjoram’s photographs that illustrated the piece and our auction entry today.

In December 2022, work in the region of £2600 was carried out; this included the fitting of a new set of tyres, attention to the ignition electrics (with the fitting of a new coil, solenoid, points and condenser) and other work. The Vogue has been in dry storage since the autumn of last year and will require a general recommissioning service before returning to the road. We are told that there is a small water leak but it is thought to be coming from the water pump, possibly the bearing gland which may need to be repacked. Mechanically, we understand there to be no other issues. In terms of the body and paintwork, the Humber presents very well, the interior is smart and the side hinged boot lid is in working order. It will be a welcome addition at historic vehicle meetings.

Some spare parts are included in the sale, including a rear axle pinion oil seal, a de-coke gasket set and oil seals. The history file contains invoices and receipts, a Lucas wiring diagram and a Bishop Steering Gear diagram, a photograph of the original front seats, a service data sheet, the October 2018 edition of The Automobile as mentioned previously, a copy of the Austin 7 Magazine which featured its day out in Dartmoor with David Suchet, an original instruction book and the V5C registration certificate.

*Photo credit: Stefan Marjoram / The Automobile*

For Sale