Aston Martin International.
Firstly, a huge thanks to Bronwen who sent over some photographs from her family album. I've been pondering about the model of Aston Martin shown in this photograph. The first model that sprung to mind was the Ulster, but after a little digging I now think this is the Ulster's forebear, namely the International, which first went on sale in 1929. However many models of Aston were to appear in the early 1930s (including the 2nd and 3rd Series International, and a Le Mans variation plus others) so I'm happy to be corrected here!
This photo was taken in 1948ish, and it shows Bronwen's father proudly stood with his Aston. The 3 cups (1 large and 2 small) balanced on the bonnet suggest that he'd competed in some competitions or other with the car. This particular Aston Martin, registration AGP 550, is believed to survive in Switzerland, having been exported a few years back. Note the ancient ("fat boy") petrol pump, with Shell globe, in the background, and what looks like a Redex (upper cylinder lubricant) sticker in the windscreen above the tax disc.
The International first saw light of day in 1929 at the motor show, based on the previous year's works' cars. Its rakish appearance can be put down to the
underslung chassis. The engine was a derivative of the competition unit, albeit dry sumped. One interesting feature is the method of mounting the
front mudguards, which rather than being attached to the chassis in the usual way, are actually attached to the brake backing plates - the Aston
shown in the photo has a little steering lock applied, and shows this feature in action.
Most 1st Series Internationals were 2/4 seaters, however there are a few small details on this car which make me think that it is probably a long-chassis car, which was less popular in the day and consequently even rarer now. However if an Aston guru out there can positively id this car for me, then great!
Return to the old transport photos - Page 5.
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