Description

The Austin Seven Swallow Saloon was an elegant, coachbuilt version of the standard Austin Seven, designed and produced by the Swallow Sidecar Company in the late 1920s. This company, co-founded by William Lyons—who would later establish Jaguar—transformed the utilitarian Austin Seven into a more stylish and refined vehicle, marking one of the earliest steps in Lyons’ journey toward creating luxury automobiles.

Built on the standard Austin Seven chassis and powered by the reliable 747cc four-cylinder engine, the Swallow Saloon retained the mechanical simplicity and efficiency of the original model. However, it featured a completely redesigned body with a more streamlined appearance, a sloping radiator grille, sweeping fenders, and a stylish two-tone paint scheme. The interior was also upgraded with better upholstery and detailing, providing a more luxurious experience compared to the standard Austin Seven Saloon.

Available in both two-seater and four-seater configurations, the Swallow Saloon offered buyers a taste of exclusivity while remaining affordable. Its combination of elegance and practicality made it a commercial success, helping to establish the reputation of the Swallow Sidecar Company and paving the way for the creation of SS Cars and, eventually, Jaguar. Today, the Austin Seven Swallow Saloon is a highly sought-after collector’s item, valued for its historical significance and classic styling.