
Toby Wilson
Head of Department
LOT 454
1931 Hotchkiss AM80 Grand Tourer Registration no. LXT 29 Chassis no. 26633
First introduced in 1931, the Hotchkiss AM80 Grand Tourer was the first of a new series of AM80's that Hotchkiss introduced, and this 1931 example was in one of the first to be displayed. Still wearing its original all-aluminium touring body by Gurney Nutting, this early example is in fact the only AM80 Hotchkiss bodied by Gurney Nutting. Gurney Nutting produced some of the most striking pre-war coachwork for the likes of Rolls-Royce and Bentley, and this is evident with by the similarity of the body to those fitted on a Speed Six chassis. The design is sleek, and the front wings flow beautifully into the running boards. The Bonnet is longer than the usual AM80 bodies, and the side louvers continue to the scuttle, acting as side vents. This AM80 is very well known among the Hotchkiss family and it was featured in an article by Motor Sport in 1932 entitled "An interesting Three Litre". This example was also shown in Georgano's Classic car bible as one of the best examples of a Hotchkiss AM80. The car is largely original, and the Paddon Bros Ltd of Brompton plates are shown in the front door shut and on the dashboard. It is believed that LXT 29 passed through their hands in the 1930s-40s. The previous owner, Professor Merton (a computer specialist at Cambridge University) bought the car prior to his marriage in the late 1940s. He then proceeded to drive the car to Marrakech and back for his honeymoon. Due to the sentimental value of the car, Professor Merton never sold it and it was subsequently stored in his garage for approximately 40 years. The current owner purchased the car from Professor Merton's daughter in 1999, and the car remained largely original and intact during its time in storage. He then took it upon himself to embark on a 10-year restoration, resulting in returning the Hotchkiss to its former glory in 2008. Since then the car has been very well-cared for and used regularly, and is reported to be running and driving well. This is a lovely original example with an interesting and detailed history to go with it.
Vendor Score Total: 84 /100
Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.
Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well
EXTERIOR TOTAL: 20 /25
Body Work: 4
Paint: 4
Glass: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Wheels/Tyres: 4
RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Axles: 4
Suspension: 4
Brakes: 4
INTERIOR TOTAL: 16 /20
Seats: 4
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 4
Headlining: 4
Trim: 4
ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8 /10
Main components: 4
Ancillary components: 4
ENGINE TOTAL: 19 /20
Starting: 5
Running: 5
Under Bonnet: 4
Mechanical components: 5
Car History File: 5

































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