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See Homepage. This page: Old motoring-related photographs that have now been identified.

Former "Mystery Car" photos that have now been identified.

For some time now, the Mystery Car Photographs page has been growing and growing, with new photographs of classic, vintage and veteran cars that need identifying. Up until now, the cars that have been identified have remained on the Mystery Cars page. However, due to the sheer number of photos now on there, I've decided to move over the identified cars to this new page. Hopefully this will make it easier to peruse those cars that have yet to be positively identified.

The following cars have now been identified:

1930s car 1. The photo shown here is believed to date to the 1930s, and was sent in by Jon. Whatever it is, it has a very distinctive shape to the grille and the central badge area. Registration VH 3146, does this car still exist? John R suggests it could be a Rover, perhaps a 2 litre or 16?? Mark has been in touch, with the following info: "I'm almost certain this is a Rover Meteor. The central badge and grill shape are right but the clincher is the V shaped headlamps, which are apparent on the picture. Hope this helps." Michael contacted me in 2009 with a yet more specific identification: "The car is a 20HP Rover Six. I have a copy of original article from 'The Motor' dated 18th February 1830 showing a sister car VC3172 from the front also, and it is identical in all respects." Thanks guys.
Vintage MG 2. Andrew kindly emailed over these three photos, showing his grandfather alongside some 1930s cars. These are superb photographs, Andrew wonders if either of these cars are still around? The first car, which looked like an MG TC to me, registration number FNU 91, is shown here close to Ladybower Reservoir, in the North West of England. It has now been identified as an MG TA as used by the Derbyshire Police. Another ex-Police TA, this time used in Lancashire, can be found on the MG TA page in the vintage photo gallery.
Vintage car 3. Now identified as an Austin Ripley - more details and pictures here.
Vintage tourer 4. Now also identified as an Austin Ripley - more details and pictures here.
Morris Ten photo 5. Jonathan emailed this photo over in 2004, and back then I wasn't too sure what it was exactly. Since then he's been able to identify it, thanks to advice from the Morris Register. They have identified it as a c1936 Series II Morris Ten. His parents used NV 8230 for their wedding in 1954, if you look closely you can see Just Married sign on the back, confetti on the running boards, and tin can tied to the back bumper.
Royal Enfield 6. I found this old photo in an album at a car boot sale of all places. The album had a number of photos showing a proud owner with his motorcycles and cars. This bike looks like a Royal Enfield, but as I'm no motorbike expert I'm willing to be set right on this! Peter thinks that this could be a 1930s ES2 or Model 20 Norton, or thereabouts, which is more likely to be correct than my guess.
Bedford coach 7. I found this photograph in a secondhand shop a couple of years ago, and seems to show a 1930s Bedford coach, with a Colchester destination blind. Plastered to the wall behind is a large advert for the Radio Times magazine. Does anyone know what model of bus this is? Update August 06 - Nina thinks this is a Bedford WTB.
Veteran car photograph 8. This is a real oldie, but I have no clue as to what exactly is shown here, or indeed how old it is. It dates to the veteran era, and is shown here with its proud owners. Owning a motor vehicle of any description back then was a luxury indeed, and was a pastime not altogether welcomed by some sections of the community, such as pedestrians and horse drawn carriage operators. Update: Mark has been in touch, identifying this veteran car: "Pic no. 8 reg. no AF387. This is a Coventry Humber of about 1906/7. Could be a 15 horsepower (not sure about the size) but definately Humber. Remarkably similar to the car on the front cover of the Shire album about Humbers". Thanks Mark. Alan thinks it could be the smaller "1909/10 8 hp two cylinder" model.
BSA motorcycle 10. Here is another photo from an album I found recently. Shown here is a proud owner, sat on a classic BSA motorcycle. What model is this example, registration number RE 7486? Note the waterproof riding gear, hat, and goggles. The photos in this album suggest that they were taken somewhere in the Staffordshire area, but I doubt whether the bike itself is still around in that, or any other, area. I'm told this is a pre-war BSA Blue Star.
Angus Sanderson cars 12. Thanks to Wenda, who sent in this fab photo shown below, and provided this background information: "Not long ago I tracked down a cousin I had never met, the son of my mother's eldest brother, who I had also never met. My cousin knows very little about his father's early life (my uncle cut himself off from his family sometime in the 1920s) and I am trying to help him discover some background. I have attached one of the very few photos he has, which shows his father working on a car he chauffeured, sometime between WW1 & 2. I have just discovered that these cars are by Angus-Sanderson, not Rolls Royces, as my cousin believed. (He knew his father chauffeured a Rolls for a Mr Abrahams of Hampstead at some stage, probably after 1935, when Ted was born). I would like to trace this garage, which Ted believes to be in the Brooklands area. Do you think you could publish the photo on your website in the hope that someone might know of it. If it still exists it probably would not look anything like the photo !". Can anyone shed any light on this photograph, or about the Angusan Repair Works ? In March 2012, a great photo of a c1920 Angus-Sanderson was added to the vintage gallery - see it here.
1930s Wolseley 14. This photo was sent over in March 2005 from Jill. She is working on a book due out in 2005 about Internet Genealogy, and was looking for some pointers about the car shown in this photo. I was able to tell her that it's a 1930s Wolseley, but as to which model it is I'm not sure, nor am I too clear on the build date. Can anyone suggest an accurate build date and model? Judging by the whack to the chrome grille it wasn't the best looked after example back then, so it is unlikely that SO 6546 is still around. Behind is a great looking lorry, perhaps of continental or US origin (Ford?), fully loaded up with some produce. UJ believes this is a 1937-39 Wolseley Series III 12/48, although Simon T thinks it could be a 1936 Wolseley 21hp saloon.
Rover Eight 15. Brian sent in this photograph in 2005, initially unsure about what car we're looking at here. Later he identified it, so strictly speaking it isn't now a 'mystery car', but its a great pic so it stays in here!! His investigations into the Rover 8 confirm that: " .. it was powered by an air-cooled twin cylinder transverse-mounted engine, 17000 were made at Tyseley, Birmingham between 1920 and 1925. The car was designed by John Young Sangster ( the Sangster family controlled Ariel), Rover bought the design in 1919 and acquired an ex. WW1 munitions factory at Tyseley to develop and build it. It relied on air scoops on either side of the bonnet to aid cooling. Apparently a very successful light car of the 1920s. Just a little background of the occupants. My Grandparents are in the front.They lived and worked in Broadstairs,Kent. where they had business interests in the town. In his young days Grandfather was a keen racing cyclist, initialy racing penny farthings (can you imagine it!) later using the normal bicycle. I understand his driving style could be described as enthusiastic! The lady in the rear seat of the Rover Eight is their daughter (my aunt). ". Thanks for the background info Brian, top stuff!!
Mystery unidentified car 18. What is this 2 door car here? the coachwork looks quite unusual being a 2 dr, yet not in the usual coupe style of a 2 dr body. The car probably dates to the 1920s, judging by the removeable rims. This has now been identified as a Buick Model 38, from 1923.
Cyclecar ? 19. This is a really oddball looking machine, and looks to be quite lightweight in construction (not unlike some cyclecars). Note the two spare tyres mounted on the offside of the bodywork, a reminder that punctures were a regular occurrence in the earliest days of motoring. Most roads were unmade and gave the tyres a real pounding. The registration is partly obscured - L 7293 is all I can make out. Written on the top is Brandon 15.9.1923, so confirms that this photo was taken over 80 years ago. Roger has been in touch and identified it as a Clement Bayard.
Touring car 20. An unusual looking 4 door tourer registration L 6070 is seen here at some event or other, with a large queue of smartly dressed people behind. Flags are visible in the background so could be at a castle in the UK, but whereabouts is anyones guess. Mark in NZ adds:"I reckon it is an Oldsmobile from around 1918-20. They did both four cylinder and V8 models but I am not sure which this is".
Vauxhall E Series 21. Steve sent me slightly blurry picture of his dad's old car, seen in Singapore back in 1969, asking what it was. Well its definitely one of the Vauxhall E Series derivatives (I can never remember the visual differences between the Velox, Cresta and Wyvern variants!). This one is a little different than norm due to the lettering over the grille. Some of the letters may be missing, but the final letter looks like an 'R' - so my question is, were Vauxhalls sold in Singapore badged differently than those sold here in the UK? all answers on a postcard please!
Update June 06 - Ross, who owns an E Series himself, confirms that this is a 1955 Vauxhall Wyvern, the curious letters on the grille probably just a trick of a blurred photograph - thanks for the info!
Charabanc & passengers 23. The chara' shown here is equally well loaded, although features the more modern inflatable, rather than solid, tyre, at the front at any rate, which must have given a slightly comfier ride to all those on board. The rears are solid. Can anyone suggest a make for either of the charabancs shown? or indeed for the commercial vehicle just visible in the right corner of this photo? Lloyd identified the latter as "a Tilling Stevens 'Petrol-Electric' bus", thanks Lloyd.
De dion Bouton 24. Registration number W59 is this De Dion Bouton two seater, with driver and passenger on board ready for 'the off'. This photo was taken at Melrose Road in Sheffield. Passenger comfort was not really an issue back in the early 20th century, note the waterproof cover that the passenger and driver have to hand, to protect them from road spray if the rain starts to come down. Does this row of garage, or the De Dion Bouton itself, still survive??
unidentified Singer coupe? 29. Mark Crame posted a note on my car forum, asking for help id'ing these 3 cars shown here.... "My Great Grandfather worked as a chauffeur after the First World War (for a Major Marsham of Ripon Hall, Heveningham, Norfolk) and amongst some photographs I have just acquired from my fathers cousin are some of motor cars. I was wondering if anyone here recognises them as I know nothing about cars at all and could possibly tell me what they are please. Thank you for any advice or help." The sporting car (ANA 961) reminds me of the mid 1930s Singer 9 Le Mans coupe, but I'm sure an owner can set me right on this if I'm wrong here!! Another suggestion is Aero Minx. Kevin got in touch and confirmed that this is in fact a Singer 9hp Coupe from 1933. Bent suggests it could also be an "Airline" bodied Coupe, similar to a car he owns now.
Unidentified vintage car 30. LO 5393 has a distinctive grille badge which should help identification - I did wonder about it being a Buick, but I'm told this isn't the case. Leif, in Sweden, has identified a number of cars on this page, and says that this one is an Overland, 1913 or 1914 in build.
Unidentified vintage car and chauffeur 31. The third photograph, of car registered AH 2114 has a distinctive bonnet fluting, not unlike those found on early Vauxhall cars..Dane agrees: "a Vauxhall of around 1912".
Large American saloon car picture 35. Davids Mum photo'd with another interesting old car, most likely American but what is it? opinions so far suggest a 1930s Buick but no doubt someone out there will know for sure....? Leif got in touch about a number of pictures here, he says this car is a Buick Series 90, 1934 or 1935. Mark adds this info: "The Buick in number 35 is on wire wheels so is probably a McLaughlin supplied by Lendrum and Hartman. I agree it looks big enough to be a series 90. The British market models used a different series code system from the US models - I think 1934 was NA but you would have to check with someone in UK who know their Buicks. NZ Buicks all came from Flint."
Bedford lorries in an old photograph 36. A curious picture, possibly taken from a hotel balcony, but where was this view taken? the background suggests a ship building industry. The trucks look like Bedford O series and probably all of the same operator, but nothing is known about why they'd all be parked up like this on the seafront.
Update - Adam got in touch about this photo: "The Mystery Photo from your site is taken on the sea front at St Helier, Jersey. The exact position seems to be just outside the Grand Hotel. As the sea front just to the photographer's right was used as part of the road circuit for the Jersey Road Races, held from 1947 to 1952, I would guess that the trucks could be something to do with setting up the temporary pits etc". Thanks for the info!
A tourer from the 1930s in a hot country 38. This picture came with a bunch of photographs I bought, and show a couple with their handsome 1930s tourer parked up somewhere very hot, in a desert perhaps? It must be hot, as they've got the hood up, to offer some shade, and the tyres are covered to protect the rubber. The bonnet is up, and the bloke on the left looks like he is repairing something - he has a ball pein hammer in his left hand!! I wonder where this photo was taken? Kevin dropped me a line suggesting that this is a Singer: "This car is a 1935 Singer 9hp Le Mans 4 seater. This was the only year the 4 seater models were called Le Mans, a tag normally reserved for the 2 seaters". Thanks Kevin.
Old car photo 39. Another mystery car, in this very faded period photograph from, I suspect, the 1920s. A close look shows a driver and passenger on board their upright 4 door saloon car, but who manufactured this particular car? as usual there are no clues on the back. John came up with this theory: "I think no.39 is an Austin 12 with the fabric body which was optional. The date would be no later than 1931 as the artillery wheels and the fabric bodies had gone by 1932. The Austin 12 was in production from 1922 to 1939, the later models being almost all London taxis". Jim Stringer has also been in touch about this photo: "The car is certainly an Austin 12/4. Year of manufacture would be around 1928 and the coachwork is certainly a four-lite fabric saloon with fold-down hood (this could be a dummy). However, the coachwork is not of Longbridge manufacture and I suggest that it may have been built by Mulliners, as the handles show the doors are all hinged towards the front of the car, as Austin coachwork had the front doors hinged towards the front of the car but the rear doors hinged towards the rear of the car. Hope this is useful".
Vintage Austin? 45. I think this early 1920s car is an Austin (a close look at the grille show an Austin-esque motif at the top). Just visible on the tyres are the words Dunlop Cord. Standing away to the side is, most likely, the chauffeur of this particular car. Jim from the Vintage Austin Register adds: "Austin 20/4 'Mayfair' limousine, with the proud chauffeur standing to the rear of it. The year is about 1924, and the owner would have paid �850 to purchase it. There are just a few 'Mayfair' limousines and landaulettes still around and registered with The Vintage Austin Register".
1950s suburbia road scene 51. A slightly shaky picture taken of a 1930s car parked by the side of a suburban road. I'm in two minds about this one, probably a Morris but could be a Standard? can anyone please id this one, I should know it but at the moment I'm suffering from brain fade!! The car is registered either FMH 827, or EMH 827. It must have been a summer's day when the photo was taken, note the clear skies, leaves on the trees, and opening windscreen partly open to keep the car interior cool. Also note the single foglamp, covered up by a bag or old rag. Classic 50s suburbia! On the right is a pair of 1950s motorcars. John R confirms that this is a 1937 to 1940 Standard Flying 10.
A rakish sportscar in the 1930s 52. Next up, a sepia photograph, probably taken in the late 1930s, showing a pair of cheery ladies strolling along, books clutched in hand. Is that a promenade over to the righthandside? certainly looks that way from here. Of main interest however is the rakish sportscar parked behind the ladies. Whoever owned it certainly took great pride in its appearance, note the full width wheel discs and air horns mounted above the sidemounted spare wheel, yet just a single windscreen wiper for the driver. Registration OU 2273. There is some moisture on the road beneath the car, so perhaps it was running a little hot that day and boiled some out. Kevin identified this one for me: "1932 Singer 9hp Junior Special. The special doesn't mean it was altered, simply the name given to the model at the time."
Village scene with 2 parked cars 53. Now this is a tricky one! This looks like a classic village scene, somewhere in the UK, probably way back in the 1920s, or perhaps earlier. There is a large vehicle (maybe a taxi?) in the background outside the cottage, and an interesting vehicle nearer to the camera, on our left. Enthusiasts of vintage and veteran cars may well be able to identify this one by its distinctive split windscreen, and the shape of the radiator. The 'U' shape brackets ahead of the rad suggest that its lamps may have been removed (why??). Note the side mounted spare wheel, and solid wheels. No mention is made on the photo to suggest where this pic was taken, does anyone recognise the village and church shown here? chances are it looks very similar, even after 80+ years. John R suggests:"... a Lancia charabanc facing the camera with its lamps unshipped, possibly to prevent theft or for cleaning, remember that chrome plating had yet to appear, with what looks like a big Renault parked by the house". Mark adds: ".. a Theta or a Kappa (I can't remember which - I think these were ex-military trucks). The other car is not a Renault, it is more like a Siddeley-Deasy."
Chauffeur photographed with his car 54. The pic shown below was sent in by a visitor to this website. David lives in Canada, and sent this photograph over that shows his grandfather, who was a chauffeur in the early 20th century, with his car, in Scotland. He thinks the photo was taken sometime around 1910. It looks like a quality touring car, check out the shine on the paintwork. Note the detachable wheel rims - in the early days of motoring, it was common to replace just the outside rim, along with the tyre, if you were unlucky enough to get a puncture. If anyone can tell us the make of car shown here, I'll pass the info on to David. Leif advises that this car is a Cadillac,circa 1913.
A classic Ford delivery van in the 30s 55. Next is a picture showing a handsome 1930s open-sided delivery van. I'm fairly sure this is a Ford or Fordson lorry, but I'm not exactly sure on the model - it pre-dates the 7V I think, and may be an early-style E88W. Again, informed opinions always welcomed! Thanks to Paul in Australia for the pic. Registration of this delivery van was BTE 41, and operated in the Nelson area (Lancashire?) for the Snowhyte company. More info on the van, or on Snowhyte, appreciated!
John has now identified this lorry as a Ford V8 Model 61 22hp forward control commercial built from 1936 to 1939.
1950s estate 56. Gary, in New Zealand, dropped me a line and sent photos of this unusual estate car ... "I'm doing some work on the family history, with family trees, stories etc. I've attached photos of the old Fordson van Dad used to own when I was just a little nipper. He used it for delivering plants. I remember Mum would hold the choke out while Dad was out front cranking the engine by hand! I'd like to know what the model is and I've had a look on the net but cannot see a similar model. I wondered if you could shed some light on this for me?" Well, for one thing I am sure its not a Fordson, but quite what it is I'm not sure - a Holden maybe, or more likely an early Hillman Minx. The photo dates to ~1950. Can anyone help?
Update June 06 - IC thinks this may be a Hillman Minx Magnificent, 1948-1950 era.
Updates 2007 - Jim dropped me a line with this info on the registration number - "The plates are New Zealand of course, L = Light Truck and the plates are 1951-1956. The 46-51 plates were black on yellow with a central hyphen". Alan also dropped me a note, confirming the car's identity: "... a Hillman Minx Estate. It was based on the Minx Mk III Saloon introduced in Sept 1948. I have an original sales brochure of the Estate Car of the period. Gary's Estate I suggest is based on the MkV Saloon introduced in Oct 1951 as they are identified by having a new chrome strip along the front wing and door with vertical chrome ends to the radiator grille. I hope this helps". Thanks for the information!
Chauffeur driven car 57. John kindly sent in this photo in June 2006, wondering what the make of car shown here with his grandfather is .. "He worked as a chauffeur driving many of the well to do in London, film stars and even Montgomery. He also drove ambulances in the first world war. We are trying to find out what the make of the car is in the photo? As time moves on our memory gets mistaken, the only thing I can remember my late father saying about the car is that it was one of only 7 built specifically to chauffeur, and I think he said it was an Austin. However, I cannot find a car like it and Austins don't seem to match. Can you please help?". Any info will be forward. John R has had a stab at this one: "I think that this is a 1927 to 1932 Wolseley 16/45 or Viper, probably a Viper as the louvres on the bonnet are grouped in sets and not in a long run. Only 75% sure."
Unidentified car 58. Silvano sent this photo over of a car, wondering what it is?? my thoughts are Morris, but can anyone say for sure? he continues "I'm writing a book on the Surrealist painter Conroy Maddox 1912-2005. This is his sister Joan (b. 1913), who now lives in Lichfield and is 92. The car probably belonged to her father and the photo was probably taken somewhere near Chipping Norton, where she lived in the parental home. I would guess that Joan was between 20 and 30 at the time of the photo." I'll pass on any info I hear about this photo. John says this is a 1935 to 1937 Morris Ten or Twelve Series II, the wheel trims are non standard.
Unidentified van 59. Les has sent in loads of photos lately, including this one of a small (5cwt approx) van dating to the early 1930s. He suggests it might be an Austin van, but the curved to the grille is puzzling me. Any ideas anyone?? Update August 06 - Nina suggests that this is a Hillman Minx, c1935.
Lady seen with a 1930s car 61. Ok - what is this car, seen in this photograph alongside a young lady on a cobbled area? Registration is CTB 497. Nina dropped me a line in August 06 to advise that it is an early Flying Standard, c1936. John agrees: "it is a Standard Flying 16 (2143cc) or 20 (2663cc) same body, choice of horse power, so you can't tell from the photograph. The car is 1936 or 1937, the fencer's mask grille being introduced on 1938 models."
Expensive 1920s car image 62. Here's a really swish looking motor. Note the disc wheels - another sign of a quality make usually, humdrum cars usually had exposed spoke wheels. Whatever it is, it must have been an imposing car, look how tall the distinctively-shaped radiator grille is compared to the well-dressed lass in front. Also note the torpedo-shaped headlamp units, another feature that may ring a bell with someone. Nina thinks is may be a Minerva - the mascot does look similar to that in photos of Minervas I've seen, but I'm not sure about the radiator shape. [Update November 06] The car has been identified as a Packard 8 and placed in the Period Photos section here.
Car parked near a Lake 63. In this photo there is a smart little car, with what I think is an Irish registration number - ZI 500. The location looks to be a lake in between some hilly outcrops, with some dry stone walling leading into the distance. Note the early style AA badge on the grille. A dark coloured horse is munching on the undergrowth. Any vintage car enthusiasts out there know what car this is? Jim, who researches numberplates, confirms the Irish location: "Definitely Ireland, ZI = Dublin, but cannot help with the date. Irish rego's have never been recalled and like England even original 1904 issues can still be extant." John R suggests that this car could be a Bianchi S5.
1930s Morris tourer 64. For a change at least I know the make of this vintage(ish) car - its a Morris! the chap sat on the bonnet doesn't seem to be worried about denting the panelwork on his smart 4 door tourer, registration PJ 9453. The paintwork looks quite flat, and the front wings look a little knocked about. I think the photo may date to the early 60s, so the car was probably 30 or so years old by then. John thinks it could be a "Morris Isis Four seater tourer, either 1930 or 1931. The grille changes to a honeycomb from the thermostatic radiator shutters seen here for the 1932 model year". However there is some debate on this one, Rob adds: "I disagree with this being an Isis for the following reasons: The bonnet louvres on the Isis are in three sections or groups. The head light buckets are chrome and the front of the wings are fuller and finish closer to the bumper. There is also a chrome cover over the horn on the Isis (and Oxford), which is why I believe the car in the picture is a 1933 Major. It couldn't be an Isis from 1930/31 as suggested, because for these first two seasons they were of all steel construction made on Budd Press tools from the States (Dodge Victory Six), whereas the car in the photo is coachbuilt. Regarding comments on the grill, the 1932/33 Isis, Major & Oxford had louvres as per the photo, changing to honeycomb for the Isis & Oxford in 1934 - they still had thermostatic radiator control, but the louvres were now hidden behind the grill. 1933 was the last season for the Major as it was superseded by the Cowley 6 for a single season." Phew, thanks Rob!
Roger has also been in touch, adding this thoughts: "I would agree that the appearance of the car the picture indicates that it was taken in the late 50s or early 60s so the car is likely to have been extensively modified to cope with post war conditions. As the number plate is mounted on the headlamp support bar this may mean that the bumper is missing. The Surrey registration dates it to September/October 1932 and the trafficators mean that it was a 1933 model so it would have been one of the first as they were introduced shortly before the Motor Show. The original Wilcots would have been replaced in 1933 by the Lucas units which are on my 1934 Ten Four tourer. Surely Rob is wrong about the body as all tourers were coachbult at the Coventry bodies plant (formerly Hollick & Pratt). I must agree with Rob that it is a 1933 model Major as the rear door is too short for the Isis/Twentyfive."
Ford Model A 66. Rear view of a car parked up (registered X6409), with the right rear door open. I think this is a Fordor Model A Ford. Am I right on this one? the car's occupants are admiring the view, note that a couple of the gents have pith hats on so this might be in Empire somewhere - South Africa perhaps? Pico confirmed that this is definitely a Ford Model A.
Morris from the 1930s 69. WV 7771 is a Morris of some kind, but again I'm not sure of the model - 10/4?. The shine on the paintwork would put many modern cars to shame. John adds: "Morris is right but the car looks a bit big for a 10/4 and the more forward radiator position suggests a Cowley from 1934, or a 12/4 from 1935. Same car renamed." Interestingly, Rob thinks it may be a 10/4: "I think this one's a 10/4. There was a 10/6 model which had a longer chassis to give a larger engine compartment, but the give away to it being a ten six was a chrome 'SIX' badge on the front grill and not evident in the photo. The bonnet louvres shown in the picture are unique to the 10/4 which rules out the Cowley as it has a continuous line of louvres, and also the 1935 12/4 because the lamp bar passed through the radiator shell."
Roger adds: "A delightful picture clearly taken when the car was new the reflection in the door is spectacular. It is a 1935 year and registration Morris Ten Four, the 18" wheels are evident and it is not a Ten Six not only because of the shorter bonnet but because it doesn't have the harmonic bumpers."
Unknown car 70. This photo is dated July 36/37, or July 30th, 1937 depending on how you read it....either way it shows a pair of ladies (probably the same as appear in the previous photo) stood alongside a swanky looking machine, perhaps American? does anyone know what OW 8448 is exactly?? Again, a super-dooper paint finish, as with the previously shown car picture. Nina suggests a 1930s American Ford, both Manuel and Leif add to this dating it to 1935, and confirms that it is a Ford V8.
1920s bus in London 71. Initially I thought that this photograph was taken in London, probably in the late 1920s or early 1930s. It shows a streetscene, with a pair of women walking together, nearest the camera. In the background is a single decker bus and an Austin 7 overtaking it. In front of the bus is a guy in uniform, either the driver or perhaps the conductor. In the background is Lennards department store, which I think sold (and still sells) fashionable footwear as part of a national 'chain'. John R got in touch, with his thoughts about this scene:
"The bus isn't a Bristol, and I don't think the location is London either. There are two large cities it could be, either Birmingham, but I don't recognise anything and having been born there you get a feel, or more likely it's somewhere in the N. East, probably Newcastle upon Tyne.
Reasons: -
The bus is an SOS "Q" which was built by the Birmingham and Midland Motor Omnibus Co Ltd., the "Midland Red", at their Carlyle works in Birmingham. Nobody knows for sure what SOS stood for but "Shire's Own Specification" is a favourite, after L G Wyndham Shire, the chief engineer of the BMMO in the 20s and 30s. Appearance clue is the grille, developed from the Tilling Stevens petrol electrics which preceded this model, and the offset to the nearside of the engine and driveline. SOS buses were built by the Red for the Red, but were exported to three companies, Trent Motor Traction, Potteries Motor Traction and Northern General. I am guessing that this is a Northern General bus in the Newcastle or Sunderland area. If the original photo would enlarge, the casting over the top of the radiator will have "Northern" on it.
Unlike some other buses of the era, these were light, reliable and fast and were economical on fuel. I seem to remember reading that Harry Ricardo advised on the cylinder head design, and that the gearbox was a German "Aphon" design made locally. When you think that the Red stretched from Malvern to Stafford, and from Leicester to Shrewsbury, they needed such vehicles. My Dad worked for the Red before WW2 and for a year or two after he came back from Egypt in 1945, and he used to maintain that it was a point of honour that they never towed in a breakdown, but fixed it on the spot. Seems unlikely to me, but Dad's not here to tell us so we'll let it rest."
Lloyd got in touch more recently, with his thoughts on this scene: ".. a single decker bus, which as I said is a SOS QL model (a year or so newer than the 'Q' as another correspondent, John R, described it). The design of bus shelter and the just-visible railway bridge behind the bus shows the view to be of Foregate Street, Worcester. A fleet of brand new QL types, operated by Midland Red, replaced Worcester's tramway system in 1928, and this picture must be only a year or two after that. The destination board behind the conductor is correct for a Midland Red bus as well, whereas the SOS buses supplied to Northern General had a board display arrangement on the roof front dome."
Muddy vintage car 72. Not quite sure what to make of this picture. A filthy, muddy, car looks to be parked in fairly arid surroundings, with 2 brightly dressed young things with it, and one older lady to the side. I bet they weren't keen on getting mud on their clothes! The car looks to be American (righthand drive too), and on wooden spoke wheels. Note the hefty sprung front bumper. The mud covers nearly all the coachwork on this old tourer, so I wonder whats been going on? there is a note on the rear, unfortunately written in Spanish by the looks of it. This car has now been identified as a Buick Touring from 1929, specifically a Series 116 Model 25 standard six tourer.
Car near Santa Claus' village 73. Family picture here, taken in October 1956 (bit early for Christmas isn't it!?) - 'on the way to Santa Claus village' it says on the back. Looks like 'dad' is taking his 2 sons out in his sedan for a visit the Santa's home. The car looks early 50s to me. Keith contacted me about this picture: "that car is a Chevrolet. It is possibly a Stylemaster as these were a lower priced model and did not have as much chrome as the more costlier Fleetmasters".
Car in Spain 74. A family portrait, I think taken in Spain. The date could be anywhere between the 1930s and 1950s, with the car definitely being from the 30s. But what car is it? Sadly no clues on the photograph to shed any light on the car, location, or the people in the photo. This has been identified now as a 1932 Chevrolet by Manuel and Leif - "1932 & 1933s had the bonnet doors. Also the Chev badge hubcaps help."
Buick car 76. Back to classic Americana now, in the curvy shape of a late 40s or early 50s Buick 4 door sedan. (Update: thanks to a contributor on my forum, this is confirmed to be a 1948 straight 8 Buick). Mark though thinks it is a '47: "is probably 1947 rather than 1948 because it doesn't have the 'series script' on the front fender. It is probably Super but could be a Roadmaster - there was only three inches difference in wheelbase."
1930s Picnic with a car 77. And back to a genteel image, probably taken somewhere in leafy Britain, in the early-mid 1930s. It shows a couple of ladies tucking into a hearty picnic, note the old-style picnic hamper sat on the open bootlid of the two tone car behind. The car's registration looks like BNU 11. A sturdy brick and iron bridge is in the background. Phil contacted me about this car: "The car is a very elegant Singer Nine I.S of 1934/35. Based on the Singer Eleven chassis. None known to have survived. (See The Singer Story p143). the I.S Nine De Luxe model (chrome headlamps and bumpers so this car is one) was dropped in 1935. The car was fitted with independent suspension (hence the I.S Nine) and a fluid flywheel clutchless gear change. To confuse things it was also available with beam axle and this photo may be either". Thanks Phil!
Old Mercedes Benz lorry 80. Ok a couple of photographs from Germany to identify here. First off, a flat-fronted Mercedes lorry from the 1950s or 1960s, parked alongside another truck that I've not as yet identified. Can anyone tell me what model of Merc is shown here? a close peer through a magnifying glass shows the name GOTTL HAUG on the door, who it seems were located in Stuttgart. The registration is W23 6945, if that helps at all? Nina got in touch and thinks they may in fact be Austrian registered, although the address on the door is definitely Stuttgart. Jim, with some info on the registration: "This certainly is AUSTRIA registered, W = Vienna. These date from 1947- white/black; rectangular and square plates used; rectangular plates vary in length depending on serial but on 6 digit plates the plates are 15 x 4 1/4; front plates are smaller than rear plates; serials on one line on rectangular plates and 2 lines on square plates; border is embossed but unpainted; one or two letter Provincial code prefix followed by serial up to 6 digits with a vertical dash placed before the last 3 digits."
German LK coach or bus 81. Second of the German pics shows a handsome coach or bus, complete with trailer, parked on a cobbled area 'somewhere in Germany'. Note the tram tracks near the camera. Another session with the magnifying glass shows that this coach (or autobus) was operated by LK, or Lemeke Und Kidschick. The registration is BN 42 5932. I had a good look at the destination blind, which has 3 locations on it. The first one looked like Eicklmgen (but I can't find any reference to a town called this!), Wienhagen (which does exist!) and the third beginning with 'Cel...' I think. In the distance is another bus with trailer. Jim again on the numberplate: "This GERMAN bus is from BN = Niedersachsen. The plates were used from 1948-1956". Oliver got in touch about this one: "Mystery photo no. 81 shows an MAN MKN 26 operated by Lembke & Koschick from Celle (bus no. 14 I think). The destinations should be Eicklingen, Nienhagen (or maybe Wienhausen?) and Celle. The other bus in the background is a B�ssing". Michael also suggested the same: "I did get a confirmation from the bus company: current owner Stefan Koschick confirmed it is one of their buses, the company was called L&K Lembke and Koschick at that time , it is called Cebus today". Thanks to you both!
Sporting car with boat-tail coachwork 82. Here's an entry sent over by Les, showing a stylish sporting machine HX 7456 sat waiting at a railway crossing. It looks like quite a narrow car, and could have been claustrophobic with the hood in place, as in this view. A railway carriage is passing by in this photograph, with a large sign for Southern Electric in the background. JP in Finland got in touch, wondering if it could be an Amilcar C5? Nomen Nescio also believes that this is an Amilcar. However, Mike Hyman has been in touch and confirmed that it is.. " without doubt a 1931 Singer Junior Sports 8hp". Thanks Mike.
1930s car parked at the road side 83. Now identified as a Standard 9hp - more details and pictures here.
Cars outside the Hotel Splendid 84. I think the photographer owned the black Standard Vanguard that is just visible in the middle of the shot (I have a clearer photo of this car parked outside a French Gendarmerie!). Was this photo taken in France too? the unidentified car nearest the camera has a Swiss flag on it. The car on the left looks like a Lancia to me, and behind the lorry reminds me of the 39-47 Dodge 'Job Rated' trucks (perhaps left over from WW2?). In the background is the Splendid Hotel, with the Confiserie Splendide / Tea Room at street level, alongside a restaurant and outlet selling Kodak films. The car to the right reminds me of a 50s Hillman Minx. Manuel thinks the unidentified car could be a 1946-8 USA Ford coupe. Keith adds: "definitely a U.S. Ford Coupe from about 1946-1948. My friend had one of these back in the mid 1970's so I am well versed with them. We actually wound up fitting a 1956 Ford OHV V8 into it with matching running gear. Oh how that thing could RUN!!! ".
Adler sports car 85. Bryan sent over this pic, showing his father sat in an unusual Adler sports car back in the 1940s. He's hoping to find out more information on this car, if anyone can help? it may have a body by Opel, but it would be good if someone could confirm this either way. If anyone knows where this car is now, please get in touch. JP & Nomen both contacted me in 2008, identifying this one as an Adler Trumpf Junior, of 1935.
1950s Street scene 86. Dark little photo showing a rainy street scene in fifties Britain. A line up of coaches is to the left, with various old cars parked to the right. Nearest the camera I think we have a Flying Standard, with something altogether older alongside. Next up is an early Austin A40, either a Devon (4 door) or the much rarer A40 Dorset (2 door). Can anyone identify the location, with its distinctive skyline?
Paul dropped me a note, as he thinks he knows where this pic was taken: "Hello from Los Angeles California, My father was a bus/coach driver in Monmouthshire in the late forties through the fifties, as a child I remember many wonderful rides through the countryside on his coaches, during that time I collected car and train numbers & names (alas lost in history) so still enjoy seeing vehicles from that era.
I lived in Minehead Somerset in the early sixties so am almost certain that Picture 86 was taken from The Yarn Market in Dunster Somerset; Dunster Castle was the home of the Lutteral family, a perfect destination for a summer Sunday coach trip! I enjoy your site very much, thanks for spending the time to assemble all the interesting information". Thanks Paul!
Ford Model C 87. According to the note on the rear, this cheery couple were photographed with their car in Switzerland, presumably during a European tour in their little car. My guess is that it is a Model C Ford, or perhaps a CX (although I think the latter came with a spare wheel cover). Am I right here?
Open top vintage car 88. A black and white pic showing 3 ladies sat in a vintage touring car at the side of a country lane. John says it is a flat rad Morris Cowley 4 seat tourer.
1960s American car 89. The note on this picture says 'dad in front of car' - but what car is it? obviously American, and the date given in July 1965. In front is a 50s Cadillac. Roland has been in touch, and identified this cars as a "1963 Oldsmobile 98 - you can identify the 98 model by the long rear doors".
Vintage car with dickey seat 90. A blurred photo from the 1920s or 1930s, and shows a couple snuggled down inside a smart tourer. Note the dickey seat at the back, presumably where the photographer had to sit. I'm told that this is a 1926-onwards flat rad Morris Cowley.
Old Riley saloon car 91. Seen here is a lady perched on the front of a 1930s Riley saloon. The registration number (KV 16..) is slightly obscured. Now identified as a Riley 9.
1930s sportscar 92. A scribble on the back says 'Paris - sportscar with Ivor'. But what is this sportscar? the grille must be distinctive to someone out there? Its a smallish car, with the spare sat on the drivers side of the car (note - it is righthand drive despite a non-British registration plate). The car also has aeroscreens fitted.
[Update] I identified this one now as a Salmson!
1930s American car 93. Two chaps in a hot country are photographed with their (American?) sedan. A fair bit of stuff seems to be roped onto the car, note the wooden chairs sat on top of the spare tyre, secured to the car by ropes around the radiator and the front wing (fender). Manuel thinks this is a Model A Ford, as does Dane: "definitely a Model A Ford. It is a 1930 model as it has the stainless steel radiator surround, 19 inch wheels and no 'recurve' in the bumper as on earlier A's. Obviously photographed after many years of use."
A broken down car 94. Two tiny pics scanned in and reproduced here. It shows an American tourer, probably from the 1920s, broken down - it looks like a puncture to me. A note on the back advises that this happened at Yonkers, N.Y. (New York). I know nothing about this area, but this site gives some extra info. Note the vintage attire worn by the passengers, including plus fours! the car was registered 4T 9231. Mark identifies this one as an Oldsmobile possibly 1916-17.
Some parked cars 95. This was taken somewhere in England I believe. In the foreground is a chap with what looks like a quality motorcar, judging by its flowing running boards and detail. Peter got in touch to identify the two main cars in view - the car nearest to the camera is a Mark V Jaguar. Three other cars are also in shot, a Hillman Minx registered HXC 859, and two other unidentified cars from the 1930s. The scene looks like a seaside or beach. Denis contacted me, as he recognised the location of this photo: ".. definitely Lulworth Cove in Dorset now the Jurassic Coast".
John agrees to the location, though has his own thoughts on the car: "The location may be Lulworth Cove, but I don't think the flashy car nearest camera is a Jag...!!! It is an Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire (circa. late 40s to mid 50s). I'm pretty sure because our headmaster had one, always taking up pride of place in our schoolyard car-park - (north Liverpool 1952 - 1956...!!!)".
Another American car 98. A photograph of a luxury 30s American car. I did wonder about a Packard but the shape of the radiator doesn't quite tie up. One suggestion is that it could be a La Salle, from around 1930 perhaps? Mark has taken a look and advises that "Number 98 is not a LaSalle, they didn't use that type of visor. This is a 1928 Studebaker President FA State Sedan (the State is the deluxe version with wire wheels). I have a GE series 3 Dictator with the same type of wire wheels (Kelsey-Hayes)." Thanks Mark.
American car 99. Now confirmed as an Oldsmobile - one of the last four cylinder models from 1922-23.
American car 100. Another luxury automobile. The rear 'opera' window should help identify this antique car! Leif, from Sweden, confirms this car as being a 1927 Buick Brougham Model 27-51.
American car 101. A lady is seen here stood next to a 2 door coupe. Mark: "1923 four cylinder Buick coupe model 36. 1923 was the last year for the 4s, the last year for 2 wheel brakes and the last year of the round top radiator".
American car 102. Quite faded but obviously an early motorcar photograph. Mark adds: ".. an early Dodge - 1914 was the first year and it could be that but no later than 1917."
American car 103. John thinks that this is a Buick - "The louvres and the drum shaped headlamps are the clue." Some debate on this one now, Mark in NZ adds: "103 is not a Buick. No Buick used those horizontal hood louvres - Stutz did in 1928 but this car looks too short to be a Stutz. It is a 1929 Chandler coupe, probably the smaller model 65 on the 109" wheelbase, as it doesn't look big enough to be the bigger series model."
American car 104. I spent ages poring through various reference books but couldn't find anything with these distinctive (chrome?) side hood/bonnet vents. Two opinions now on this one - Leif tells me that this car is a Franklin, circa 1930, and Manuel suggests a Chrysler: "it is a newish high end Model 70 or 77 1930 Chrysler. The winged bonnet louvres were only avail in 1930 and some from alloy/stainless. A few had the cowl lights high up on the windscreen posts. This was the last year of the skinny radiator. The Bentley/Auburn/Cord style replaced it". Mark (NZ) adds: "I reckon a Series 66 Chrysler because it looks too small to be a 70 or 77. Those hood louvres are referred to as pennons."
American car 105. "A 1927 Chevrolet, the last of the short wheelbase fours" Mark (NZ).
American car 106. Bit of a weird one this. Pico finally solved this little mystery: "Sir, I grew up about 100 miles southwest of St. Louis so when I saw the "Bevo, St Louis" on #106 of the "Mystery Cars", I thought it had something to do with Bevo Mill, a well known St. Louis landmark. Sure enough, the building was named after a non-alcoholic beer made by Anheuser-Busch during prohibition. Check the link for a history of their advertising cars, and the Bevo Boat, which is the car you have pictured". Thanks Pico!!!
Lady driving a touring car 107. Nice photograph of a young lady sat behind the wheel of a touring car. But what is it? don't think its a Model T as the bulkhead looks the wrong shape. The hood has 2 oval windows in the back, which may help identify it? Two people have now suggested that it is a Dodge, circa 1920.
Men sat around some old cars 108. Large group of men, with 3 cars parked in the background. Can anyone tell me what the main car shown is? It is two tone, with dumb irons on the rear quarters. Note the women hiding in the background of the photo! Mark adds: "those dumb irons are called landau irons, and I think the car is a 1926 Oakland Landau sedan.
Lady stepping into a car 109. A slightly unflattering photo showing a lady climbing into a car - is that a large dog sat on the back seat? apparently the car is a 1927 Buick.
Two men and a car 110. Two chaps stood alongside their American 2dr coupe - now identified as a 1930 Chevrolet.
An Eric Campbell light car 111. Now also identified as an Eric Campbell - more details and pictures here.
What car is this? 112. Nice old tourer registered FD 1800. The lads in view were called Sam, Eric, Tom and Will. Sadly no mention of what marque of car was shown - one possibility is a Hupmobile?? Mark also believes that this is a 1924 Model R Hupmobile.
Mystery touring car 115. A smart touring car, disc wheels etc but what is it?? maybe Armstrong Siddeley as John suggests? Mark: "Number 115 is a De Dion-Bouton, just post-WW1 I think, with English coachwork".
Mystery car 116. What is this rakish two door drophead? looks American to me, maybe a Ford?? Keith agrees believing it could be a 1936 Ford Convertible, however Ron has identified it as a Matford, ".. smaller than a V8 but bigger than a Model Y etc. Most had really stylish bodies and were French Fords."
Two gents and their motorcar 117. This photo shows two smartly dressed chaps sat on the running board of their two door roadster - can anyone identify this (American?) car? Pico contacted me about this photo: "Number 117 is a Stutz, but exactly which year and model still eludes me. It would be between 1928 and '30. The give-away are the horizonal louvers, but what really ties it down is the curious moulding that departs from the beltline and curls up the "A" pillar, on some models it runs across the scuttle". Some disagreement now on this one, Mark suggests: "the car is too short to be a Stutz. It is a Marmon. I reckon a 1929 series 68 on a 114" wb".
Another open tourer 123. Mike Pickup sent this one in for our perusal: "During the course of researching my family history I came across the attached photo taken of my great-aunts in, perhaps, the mid 1920s. I wondered whether you or any of your fellow enthusiasts might be able to recognise the make and model for me?" John contacted me shortly after I put this photo on her, identifying it as a circa 1924 Wolseley 10.
Army officers with two French cars 124. This superb old photo was sent in recently, showing what look like Army officers with two motor vehicles. The car on the right has a radiator badge proclaiming "Darracq Paris" on it, and the car on the left reminds me of a Renault, but can anyone shed more light on this pair? Jacques thinks the other car might be a Phoenix.
A Napier perhaps? 125. Deirdre & Francis sent in this photo for identifying, along with a few possible clues: "We wondered if you can identify the attached photograph of an old car, registration number UI 110? UI was the registration for the City of Derry, Northern Ireland, and was apparently the longest running number in the UK by the time it reached 9999. The couple in the photo are probably from a local family called Stevenson and the car may be a Napier of the first decade of the 1900s". Does anyone recognise this car? Mark (NZ) says: "Humber from around 1906. One of the ones with the reverse rotation engine".
A Triumph car? 126. Another picture received via email recently, this time from Lynn who found this photo of her grandfather. Firstly she wonders what it is, and whether it still survives. In some ways it reminds me of a small Triumph, but no doubt someone out there will know for sure!!! John R has suggested that it could be a Standard Little 9: "The points here are the horizontal bonnet louvres, which would have been vertical on all pre-Gloria Triumphs, and the radiator badge looks as if it might be a Union Flag with wings either side, suggesting Standard. Also there appears to be a door handle just by Grandad's left elbow which looks as if the doors are hinged at the outer pillars, which is like the Little 9".
What is this car? 127. Two photos were sent over, this and the one below - do they both show the same car? and if so what is it, a Rover? John H says yes: ".. definitely a Rover -- a Rover Ten of 1931-33. It could indeed be the same car as 128, at the other end of its life. Car 128, KJ 1637, dates from mid-1931, though the photo can't be earlier than mid-1935, when L-plates were introduced. As KJ seems to have been very well looked-after for a four-year-old, it may well have had a good start in life (always a good thing if you're hoping for longevity!) -- because I suspect that photo 127 was taken after the war. The state of the car (door-handles at strange angles, painted waistrail, odd-coloured bonnet-side, patchy rear wing etc.) points to the end of a long and fairly arduous life."
What is this car too? 128. Here is the second photo of the pair, same car as the one shown above?? John R suggests they may be examples of the Rover 10/25: ".. two pictures may both be a Rover 10/25 1931 to 1933 but KJ 1637 doesn't look like the same car as the centre picture since it looks to be in far better condition, still time could have passed and taken its toll. Recognition points for the bottom picture are the shape of the radiator, with the centre bar and the little cutaway under the filler cap and the sharp angles at the corners of the windscreen. The general size of the car suggests a "Ten" hence going for the 10/25 ... This picture resembles a Rover 10/25 of 1932, same windscreen and you can see the horn mounted on the bar between the headlamps, which is probably obscured by the L-plate on KJ 1637. The other recognition points are the quarter elliptic rear springs and the shape of the bonnet side louvres and I think that this car is fitted with the "cheap all steel body from Pressed Steel", to quote Michael Sedgwick. The centre hinged doors also match this theory."
A Morris car? 129. Anyone know the make and model of car shown here? a Morris maybe? John R also thinks it could be a Morris: "this is a real mystery to me, unless there is a gap in my knowledge of thirties Morris models:
1.. I think we can say that it is a Morris, as the radiator ornament looks right.
2.. the easi cleen wheels and the painted radiator indicate that it is 1936 or later.
3.. the size of the car indicates that it would be a ten, or a twelve.
4.. the front mudguard is the right shape for a 1938/9 12 series 3, which was an oddity that didn't conform to the earlier series models, all of which would have fastback design and not the bustle boot on this car which is more like that of a Wolseley.
5.. it has got Wilmot Breeden stabiliser bumpers which were not fitted to the later Ten Series M, and the boot looks the wrong shape for that model.
6.. I'm not 100% sure on this,but unless there is a coachbuilt ten that I don't know about, I'd call this car as the Twelve series 3, which was only built in 1938/9."
Keith also contacted me about this photo, he think it is definitely a Morris Ten saloon, but Rob disagrees and says: ".. it's definitely a 1935 Morris 12/4 Series 111 - the giveaway being the chrome bonnet vent trim and rear end profile similar to the 10m."
Opel car photo? 133. This one has now been identified as a 1930s Opel Olympia. More photos and details here.
German car? 138. Side view of a handsome touring car pictured at a ski resort. The photo is slightly fuzzy yet still shows some useful detail - eg the spare tyre, rather than a wheel and tyre, mounted above the running board, a prominent radiator mascot, a luggage rack and trunk to the rear, and what looks like a large sprung bumper to the front. The vehicle in the background looks even more imposing! Mark: "the car in the foreground is a Studebaker, a 1926-7 Series EU Standard Six - about the time the name was changed to Dictator. The big car in the background could be a Hudson from the square cornered body - no later than 1924."
What is this car? 139. Now, a side-on view of some young people with a tidy tourer from the 1920s. At first I thought of the Rover 8, but on checking the Rovers have three stud wheel fixings. Any ideas? I did think this was taken in Britain, but Jakob in Denmark thinks it could be an Opel Laubfrosh, the German-made Citro�n Cloverleaf. Roger identifies it as a "Citroen B2 Cloverleaf of c.1923 - Paris rather than Slough made".
American car maybe? 142. Not much to go on sadly with this one! Manuel believes it is "a 1934/5 Chevy. The bonnet louvres and wheels are the give away." Now identified as a 1934 Master sedan.
Mystery motorcycle 143. Two shots of a great old motorcycle, but what is it???? Mark believes it is an AJS - Ann & Roy add a wealth of new info on this motorcycle: "The Motorcycle is an AJS all chain drive Model B for 1912. The first of the Model appeared in 1910, the 1910 AJS Model B. As the AJS design is updated often, by 1912 the engine timing chest shape and angle of the timing chain case have changed, also the gearbox is of larger castings, along with various other changes. The small unit fitted to the top frame tube is a Hand pushed plunger, mechanical horn." Thanks for the info!
Mystery vintage tourer 147. Now identified as a Lea-Francis tourer - more details here.
Mystery car 149. Back to a Germanic motor-car I think, possibly a Mercedes Benz if the logo on the hubcap is anything to go by? Jakob confirms this is a Mercedes 170, thanks!
Mystery car 152. A young lad stood next to a car with an open door, believed to be in the UK. Note the distinctive traffic-light style of lamp fitted to the scuttle - wasn't this a Morris-only feature, for a brief time during the 1930s?? Now confirmed as definitely a Morris, Allen adds:"These were fitted by Morris in 1933 and later banned by Leslie Hore Belisha when he was Minister of Transport. The idea was when you were turning left the green light on the right and the red on the left lit up (and obviously vice versa) the orange ones were for straight on. This was meant to show other road users which side it was safe to pass on. A switch was on the r/h side of the dash (I bet that was fun to wire up). In the 1950s a very similar looking lamp arrangement was offered as an aftermarket accessory. Only one though, (in the rear window) this time the green light showed that you were accelerating and the red that you were deccelerating. I assume the orange one was lit at certain times but as I've only seen an advert for them I'm not sure when. Which still does not identify which model Morris this is (sorry) and sorry if all that about Morris indicators has caused your eyes to glaze over". Thanks Allen!
Peter has had a look at this one, and think that it is a Morris Major Sports Coupe, circa 1932, although Morris-owner Rob adds: "This two door model was known as a Special Coupe, although the pram irons were dummy as the roof didn't fold back. Due to its size compared to the boy I believe it's more likely to be a 10/4 than a Major. It may well have been made in 1932, but going by season, it's a 1933 model due to the fitment of the ill-fated Willmot & Breedon trafficators referred to by Allen".
Roger from the International Alliance of Morris Owners website adds: "Again the Wilcot trafficator indicates a 1933 model and the dimensions of the driver's door window that it is a Special Coupe. The chrome strip for the roof edge moulding also indicate that it is a Coventry made body as does the pronounced lip at the top of the bottom door panel. What makes it a Major rather than a Ten Four is the wind deflector which was only used on the larger models and the distinctive chrome strip in the centre also indicates the Coupe body as the saloons did not have this."
Mystery car 153. A sleek black motorcar parked outside the local Garmischer Hof. Note the AA badge on the wall of the building! Marks thinks: "just post WW2 Plymouth coupe".
Mystery car #154 154. Hans sent in this photo, wondering what car is shown? Mark says it is a 1922 Essex coach.
Mystery car #155 155. This was sent in by Hugh, showing what he believes is his father's Durant. If anyone has more info on the model shown, please drop me a line.
Mystery car #158 158. Ros sent photographs no. 158 - 172 and 185 - 188 inclusive. She is writing up her family's history in New Zealand, and trying to identify some of the cars they drove on their adventures: "The people concerned were very early car enthusiasts. We have a number of old photos of their cars which I would be very grateful if you or your readers could identify for me. As well there are several pics of outings taken in the early 1900s to various places in the South Island of New Zealand where the conditions were quite wild. Lots of fording of rivers, ploughing through mud etc - which you may find of interest". Great photos Ros!! thanks for sending them over.
Mark believes this car is a Wolseley-Siddeley - "I think it is a 16/20hp model. It looks to be attempting to cross the Bealey River near Arthurs Pass". Thanks Mark.
Mystery car #159 159. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Car stuck in mud circa 1916. Mark identifies this as a Wolseley circa 1912, a car that features in several of these NZ photos.
Mystery car #160 160. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Mark thinks it could be an early 8hp single cylinder Rover - about 1905-8.
Mystery car #161 161. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Identified as probably a Talbot of about 1910.
Mystery car #162 162. Sent in by Ros (NZ), also believed to be a Talbot.
Mystery car #163 163. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Three cars in convoy. Mark has had a look and adds the following: "The middle car is definitely a Rover 12hp of about 1912 - I know someone with an identical car". A friend of his adds: "To the left is a c1911 sleeve valve BSA .. I think the Rover with its Rotax electrics is probably c1914. The third car is a Hudson (1918?)."
Mystery car #164 164. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Believed to be a circa 1914 Stellite.
Mystery car #165 165. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Alan adds to this: "I don�t believe this Talbot is the same car that appears in #161. Adams commonly fitted these BRC self generating headlights to the larger Talbots they sold. It seems more likely that 161 is an Elworthy family vehicle whereas the cars in #165 are the Mt Cook tour party (from Christchurch?). The car in the middle is indeed a 1904 Flying Fifteen Darracq which was owned by Christchurch pioneer motorist and Automobile Association Canterbury member R. McDonald. The registration number C2 tells us that the photograph was taken some time (and probably soon) after mid 1906. I have a feeling McDonald was Secretary of the Automobile Association around this time. The number C1 was allocated to the Automobile Association President Arthur Rhodes. Off the top of my head I think McDonald owned a Talbot by late 1907."
Mystery car #166 166. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Mark: "is the #165 Talbot again. It looks to be crossing a ford in the Castle Hill area on the way to Arthurs Pass."
Mystery car #167 167. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Identified as a Wolseley.
Mystery car #168 168. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Mark/Alan: "DeDion-Bouton of about 1907-09".
Mystery car #169 169. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Mark adds, regarding this photo and #170: "#169 and #170 look to have been taken in the mid-1920s - possibly on the way north to Nelson crossing one of the many fords. Even in the 1950s there were more than 20 river crossings on this route although not this severe. The front car is a Hudson Super Six of about 1924 and the other one is a type 59 Cadillac of about 1920. Both these makes were popular as service cars in this era - they were strong and reliable. The three cars on the bank are probably all Cadillacs."
Mystery car #170 170. Sent in by Ros (NZ). See notes with photo #169.
Mystery car #171 171. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Identified now as a Wolseley-Siddeley.
Mystery car #172 172. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Identified as a Talbot. Alan adds: "The semi elliptic rear springs (with no transverse) indicate that this car is no later than 1908. The registration series C3301 � C3800 was allocated to the Waimate / Timaru county district."
Mystery bus photo #173 173. Back to the UK now, can anyone identify the double decker bus shown here, and perhaps the builder of the coachwork?
Lloyd dropped me a line: "It is a 1938 Crosville Leyland Titan (model TD5) with an Eastern Coach Works (ECW) 52 seat body, to 'low height' configuration having the upper deck seats and rows of four, with a lower gangway on the offside, very dangerous to passengers downstairs if the stood up too quickly! These buses were 'convertables', meaning the roof section could be craned off to give an open topper for sea-front services. It was one of six, fleet nos M71-6, registered CFM 373-8. I can't guess the location, but by the hills in the background it looks like somewhere in the Llandudno - Colwyn Bay - Rhyl area."
Mystery car photo #174 174. Two cars parked in a driveway, the dark coloured car is a Vauxhall, but what is the lighter-coloured car parked in front of it? Bernard confirms that both cars are of Luton descent: "In your mystery car listings, photograph number 174, the rear vehicle is correctly indentified as a Vauxhall, and the vehicle in front is also a Vauxhall, but a few years older...."
Mystery car photo #177 177. A smart 1920s tourer, with passengers on board. Simon got in touch about this one: "I thought you would like to know that the mystery car no 177 is a Citroen B2 tourer from about 1922, they were rated at 11.4 hp from a 1495cc side valve engine, driving thru a 3 speed gear box with a top speed of around 45 mph. You may wonder how i know all this? I own the same model as shown in the photo". Thanks Simon! Anders also identified this one.
Mystery car photo #178 178. Another vintage tourer, I can't quite make out the radiator badge in the original photo, hopefully someone will recognise this vehicle. One suggestion is that it might be a Leyland, but I've not found one that looks just like this car as yet. John H: "1926 Windsor 10-15hp, registered in Liverpool. The Windsor was an expensive and luxurious smallish car with a 1354cc engine, built entirely by James Bartle & Co, Notting Hill, London W11. In 1926 the four-seater cost �345; only a few hundred cars were built between 1923 and 1927, when the company folded. There are perhaps four survivors". Thanks John.
Mystery car photo #179 179. Rear view of something European, probably early 1960s. Michael advises: "This car is a 1960 Ford 12M, 38 HP, made in Germany, the license plate should be from Offenbach , Germany, close to Frankfurt." Thanks!
Mystery car photo #180 180. An American car caught driving through Innsbruck, now confirmed as a 1958 Mercury (thanks Hande).
Mystery car photo #181 181. A tiny little car, possibly East European? Michael and Seppo confirm the car's identity: "a Lloyd LP 400, a car made in Germany from 1952 - 1957, 2 cyl 2 stroke, 386cc, 13HP, pretty popular model, as Borgward made 106.000 units under the Llyod LP 400 model name. The license plate shows M for Munich."
Mystery car photo #182 182. Another European street scene, is that a Mercedes on the right? Ron definitely thinks so: "Mercedes 180D Taxi's. The rear one has a "T" plate." Thanks Ron.
Mystery car photo #183 183. East European car, Jacques identifies this one as a Skoda 1101 (probably 1948?), and Seppo thinks it is a Skoda 1102 1948-1953.
Mystery car photo #184 184. A gent seen working under the bonnet of his 50s car. Seppo in Finland identifies this one as a "Zwickau P 70 (AWZ). East German car. Plastic (duroplast) body with steel framework." Brilliant, thanks for that.
Mystery car photo #186 186. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Renault has been suggested as a possibility for this one by a couple of people now.
Mystery car photo #187 187. Sent in by Ros (NZ). The car in the middle of this line-up is a Talbot.
Mystery car photo #188 188. Sent in by Ros (NZ). Renault has been suggested a couple of times for this one.
Mystery car photo #189 189. Another European bus or coach to identify. I can't make out the scripted badge on the radiator grille, although it does appear to be in two parts. I don't know what engine is under the bonnet, but it certainly has plenty of cooling slats let into the bodywork! Seppo has identified it: "Austrian Steyr from early 50s". Lloyd adds: "Steyr model 380".
Mystery car photo #190 190. A US car of the late 40s or early 50s - Cadillac perhaps? Ron agrees, he's identified it as a 1949 Cadillac.
Mystery car photo #191 191. Henk in Australia sent this one over for identification: "A warm greeting from sunny Brisbane, Australia. Attached my father's (I would expect) first car. I cannot recognize any identification. Do you know what it is? Dad was born in 1906 in the Hague and this picture carries a NL number-plate. I would expect the car's age to be from mid 20's? Many thanks". Ron id's this as a 1929 Chevrolet, Dane confirming that it is a Six.
Mystery car photo #192 192. Simon sent this next pair of motor racing photographs over: "I developed these photographs from old glass negatives - can you identify the cars and the track? Any help is appreciated. I have more to print up but these are what I have developed so far". Can anyone assist? my hunch on seeing the first photograph, is that this is a meeting held at Donington in the 1930s. Possible? John R dropped me a line on this one: "It's always difficult when the cars are stripped for racing as some of the identifying clues get removed, the relationship between radiator, headlamps and mudguards is a good example. However, I'm going to take a flyer and suggest that 192 might be a Singer 9, maybe a Le Mans, but that is very tentative and you might invite other correspondents to make their comments. The other cars in the picture are too fuzzy to guess at." Mike agrees, he thinks it is a mid 1930s Singer 9hp Sports or Le Mans.
Mystery car photo #193 193. The second of Simon's photographs, showing a racing car at speed. John R again: "it's a Frazer Nash but they made a plethora of models in small numbers so I can't give any further identification for certain, but the smallish front brake drums suggest it could be a Boulogne." Thanks John.
Mystery car photo #194 194. Mike Keeling sent in this photo: "All I can tell you is that the picture is of my Grandparents out for a picnic with their pride and joy (with what I think is a trailer tent attached). Note the teapot on the running board - no slumming it for my Grandparents! I've still got the old AA and RAC badges you can see on the radiator but they're the only other mementos of the car that I have. I think the photo would have been taken in the late 30s judging by the fact that Gramps still had some hair! I know for a fact that he owned a 1930's Tickford Daimler later on (in fact he kept it until he died in 1980) which I can remember being an enthralled passenger in so I know it's not that one. Any assistance would be gratefully appreciated".
The traffic light indicator lamps mounted near the door suggest Morris, perhaps one of their six cylinder coupes? A member of the forum also thinks that it might be a Morris Isis, or a Six. Rob confirms the Morris theory - "Morris LA Oxford 6 from around 1931. The Wilcott Indicators are not original as they were introduced by Morris for the 1933 model year."
Mystery car photo #195 195. A mystery motorcycle this time, sent in by Phil: "I have unearthed an interesting photo of a relative of mine outside his shop in Wincanton, Somerset. I would guess the photo was taken during the 1890's but have never seen anything like it. Can you solve the mystery of what sort of motorcycle and trailer they a proudly showing off to the camera?"
I showed this photo on the forum. One suggestion was a 1904 Ormonde, another that it might be a Minerva v twin. Lyndon got in touch with this information: "I doubt very much if it was taken in the 1890s and would suggest about 1904. I am almost certain that the attached sedan is a 1903 'Trefalgar' model built by manufacturer 'Lyons' of Baker St, London. The early motorcycle is likely to be a Matchless twin with characteristic front forks. Hope this is useful......"
Mystery car photo #198 198. Three photos now, of a smart chauffeur-driven motorcar in the 1920s. There is a hint of R-R about it from some quarters, but the radiator isn't R-R. Note the V windscreen, and radiator mascot. PP got in touch with this theory: "I suspect it is a Minerva, most probably a six-cylinder AF model from the mid 1920s, or perhaps even (but I think less likely) an AL straight eight model introduced just as the stock market crashed in 1929. Large, luxury Belgian-made cars with complex sleeve-valve engines and coach-built bodies from a wide variety of builders so identification from photographs of a whole car is very difficult - unless a good view of the radiator or other make-specific features can be had. I've been guided in this case by the radiator shroud shape and to a lesser extent by the wheel centres."
Mystery car photo #199 199. A touring car, again with a split V windscreen. A Humber maybe? John R agrees: "1919 to 1925 Humber 15.9, the vee windscreen being a good clue as the later cars had flat screens".
Mystery car photo #200 200. Here's an interesting old car, photographed on a ferry in the 1920s. I'm sure the distinctive rad will lead to a speedy identification of this one!! :) And so it was, Mark, Anders & John R all got in touch and confirmed that it is a Lagonda, about 1920, 11hp. Roger also confirmed that it is a Lagonda, although this it might be a little earlier, circa 1914.
Mystery car photo #202 202. A light commercial this time, with the owner of the van stood alongside. John R on this one: "Morris-Cowley, the light van having a flatter radiator than the cars".
Mystery car photo #203 203. A very angular vintage car this time, with a group of happy people with it. Just two doors, the rad mascot looks like a greyhound - might this help identify the car, or is it just a general accessory that could have been fitted to any car? Mark has identified this one as a Willys-Overland Whippet .. "a 1926 model I think - possibly built in the Manchester England factory". Andres concurs: "Willys Overland Whippet Model 96 from 1926-28. Orginally an American car but this one was made by Crossley in Heaton Chapel, Stockport."
Mystery car photo #204 204. Back to commercial vehicles for a moment, firstly - two different pickup trucks photographed in Australia - anyone recognise them, Dodge or Chevy maybe? The pickup on the right has now been identified as a 1927 Chevy, the one on the left possibly a 1923 version?
Mystery car photo #207 207. Does anyone recognise the make and model of coach shown here? the front-end styling does look familiar to me, but I can't remember who was responsible??? Ian got in touch the day after this photo was published, he believes it to be a Bedford Duple Vista Vega, circa mid 1960s. Thanks Ian.
Mystery car photo #212 212. And now for a veteran car taking part in a road run in the 1960s - perhaps the London to Brighton?? surely someone will recognise car reg. NYM 1? Wendy is trying to trace the whereabouts of this car, so if anyone can help, please get in touch. Bob contacted me about this one: "NYM 1 is an 1896 Lutzmann ... refer The Automobile Jun 2001 P 35 ... when driven by Philip Fotheringham-Parker". Thanks Bob.
Mystery car photo #214 214. Ken sent this series of photos in: "These photographs were taken in Hinton Waldrist village, Berkshire (now Oxfordshire). The only information about them is that they show the first car ever seen in the village. They appear to be Press Photographs so if I could get some idea of the date of the vehicle shown it might be possible to find a report in the local newspaper archives." Manuel in Australia, and Rotarybri on the forum, have confirmed that this is a brass-era Ford Model T.
Mystery car photo #215 215. A street scene now - the concensus is that the car nearest the camera is a pre-war Wolseley (model?). A Mk1 Consul, on off-road tyres, is also in shot.
Mystery car photo #216 216. A pair of classics now - one late 40s/early 50s, and the other pre-war. Both are American I think. In the background, a Ford Prefect and a pre-war Vauxhall. Manuel sussed this duo out - 1946 US Ford and a 1936 Chevrolet.
Mystery car photo #219 219. This photograph shows a smart machine being loaded aboard a boat, but what is the car? Peter identified this as a 2� litre or a 3� litre Jaguar.
Mystery car photo #220 220. Now, a camping scene during the post-war years. The tourer is looking a little down-at-heel - Sunbeam Talbot was my thought, and Brian agreed.
Mystery car photo #221 221. Another camping photo, with a car parked very close to a tent. Manuel again: "1933 Plymouth. Though they were called Chryslers or Chrysler/Plymouth. Possibly had other local names in the UK, eg Kews etc. This one appears to wear a Dodge or Chrysler mascot as well as Lucas lights." Thanks!
Mystery car photo #224 224. This photo, which shows a Morris (model??) was sent over by Brian Roberts in S. Africa - the photo was taken in Berkshire, in about 1945. The Morris Isis has been suggested, but Rob believes otherwise: "The Isis is much bigger, the louvers are in three sections and the lamp bar is straight, not bent to miss the grill." Lloyd identifies it as a Morris Major.
  225. Removed.
Mystery car photo #226 226. Next, a photo sent over from Argentina by Guillermo Manzi. No-one in his family can remember the make and/or model of car shown in this picture. Manuel: "a much altered 1929 Dodge/Plym/DeSoto".
Mystery car photo #227 227. This photo was I think taken in the USA, circa 1940. This car has been id'd as a 1931-1932 American Austin {pre Bantam}.
Mystery car photo #228 228. Next a photo from Jo Anderson, her family are researching their family tree and are keen to know what the car in the photo is. Can anyone help? Manuel again is on the case: "1916 to 1919 (Willys) Overland. This one seems to have some extra chrome eg, light bar, radiator and windscreen posts etc." Jo came back to me with some more info, specifically that the car is an Overland 90 Country Club.
Mystery car photo #229 229. Another photo from the US now - Lloyd Smith sent this one over, wondering if anyone can confirm the date of this Buick? the licence plate/tag is for 1927, however I'm told this series ran from 1915 - 1923.
Mystery car photo #231 231. Now, a shot of a vintage tourer as yet unidentified....but Manuel recognises it: "Mid 1920's Willys Overland {pre Whippet}. These had the protruding curved front spring."
Mystery car photo #235 235. Larry Richardson sent this photo over, he's trying to identify the motorcycle that his Grandmother is perched upon. He adds: "My Aunt (94) who was born in 1915 thinks I told her it was a Thor, but I still haven"t found the bike that conclusively matches the forks and the foot crank. Maybe we can solve this mystery together and thanks for responding .. By the way the fellow is Henry Lenard Richardson born in 1879 and the lady is Bertha Kane(Belmer)."
Lyndon has been in touch, he thinks this might be: ".. an American 'Yale' of around 1913 ..... although I'd like to rummage under the skirt, the engine ( ie single or V twin) is difficult to assess. Points to note and fairly typical of the Yale are....early chain drive, depth of front mudguard, brake location, seat springs, and front forks. Very similar to Harley and others but if you 'google' Yale I'm sure you'll get confirmation."
Mystery car photo #237 237. Now identified by John Robins as a 1932-1934 Singer Silent Six Kaye Don Saloon - more details here.
Mystery car photo #240 240. Christian emailed this photo over - it shows his grandfather on a European tour - but what is the car? One suggestion is Hotchkiss, although the wheels don't seem correct. John agrees: "Hotchkiss for sure, probably a 1934 model 615, and missing its front bumper. Pressed steel wheels fitted for 1936 onwards, the wheels on this are correct but the hubcaps, small plated affairs a la early 30s Morris, are missing". A contact in France has confirmed the location as "Grandson castle, Switzerland".
Mystery car photo #243 243. A gent and four lads sat in a large tourer, perhaps on the school run? Roger: "Armstrong Siddeley of c.1924, possibly an 18 or 20hp".
Mystery car photo #244 244. What car is this gent lying in front of? at least the rad is visible in this shot (for a change!). Lloyd thinks this is a Hillman, John R agrees, he is ".. about 90% certain that the car is a 1932 or 1933 Hillman Minx Six Light Saloon fitted with the Pressed Steel standard body bought in by Hillmans at the time".
Mystery car photo #245 245. All the family are out in this shot, is there enough of the car visible to help identify it? Lloyd identifies this one as a c1935 1st series Hillman Minx.
Mystery car photo #251 251. Now identified as a Vulcan - more details and pictures here.
Mystery car photo #252 252. This photo was taken in 1947. Various suggestions have been made so far - Daimler being in the lead so far. Can anyone provide the answer? John R suggests: ".. it's from a bit further down the road in Coventry I reckon, and I think it's an Armstrong Siddeley 14 Four Light Saloon, or possibly a Sixteen Sports Saloon, from about 1938 or 1939".
Mystery car photo #256 256. David is trying to find out the make and model of this car - can anyone help? John R again: "1938/9 Hillman "New Minx" Saloon, not the Deluxe, which would have had an opening boot lid, but the standard model which didn't. The built in number plate identifies the model year."
Mystery car photo #257 257. Fran and Bill sent over this photo, the gent in the photo lived in Ohio at the time of this photo - c1914. The wheels and mudguards remind me of a Model T. Peter suggests it could be a c1912 Overland.

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