Hotchkiss Anjou 1931
General description :
Vintage and Prestige are proud to offer this 1931 Hotchkiss AM80 Grand Tourer by Gurney Nutting For Sale.
Registration: LXT 29
Chassis no: 26633
Engine no: 5807
This is the first of a new series of AM80’s that Hotchkiss bought out in 1931, LXT 29 was in fact displayed on the Hotchkiss at the 1931 Motor Show.
Still wearing her original and unique, all aluminium touring body by Gurney Nutting. This 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.
As you walk around the Hotchkiss it is evident to see the similarities in shape between this and bodies fitted on a Speed Six chassis.
The body is sleek, the front wings flow beautifully into the running boards, and the curvaceous lines are carried through the rear wings. 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 know among the Hotchkiss family, an article and road test were conducted by Motor Sport in 1932 entitled “An interesting Three Litre”
She is also shown in Georgano’s Classic car bible as the best example of a Hotchkiss AM80.
Paddon Bros LTD of Brompton plates are shown in the front door shut and to the dashboard, LXT 29 must have passed through their hands in the 30’s-40’s as the previous owner, Professor Merton purchased this AM80 in the late 40’s.
Professor Merton was an early computer specialist and pioneer at Cambridge University, he bought the car prior to his marriage, he then proceeded to drive to Marrakech and back for his honeymoon.
Due to the sentimental value Professor Merton never sold LXT 29, his children remember driving in her as small children, but she was then laid to rest in his garage for some 40 years.
The current owner purchased this Hotchkiss from Professor Merton’s son in 1999, she was laying the with a sheet of dust over her in original and intact condition.
He took it upon himself to embark on an almost 10 year restoration, this resulted to returning the Hotchkiss to her former glory and returning to the road in 2008.
Since then she has be used regularly and cared for, still starting first time and not missing a beat.
In our showroom and ready for viewing.
1931 Hotchkiss Anjou is listed for sale on ClassicDigest in Essex by Prestige House for Not priced.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Hotchkiss Model : Anjou Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1931 Sub type : Convertible Location : Essex Vehicle Registration : Undefined
Not priced
Seller Information
Vintage & Prestige
Prestige House
+44(0)1375 379719, +44(0)7967 260673
Prestige House
+44(0)1375 379719, +44(0)7967 260673
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About Hotchkiss
In the glamorous world of European luxury automobiles during the 1930s, one name that deserves recognition is Hotchkiss. This French automaker may not have enjoyed the same level of fame as its contemporaries like Rolls-Royce or Bentley, but it had its own distinct charm and a story worth telling.Founding and Heritage:
Hotchkiss was founded by Benjamin Hotchkiss, an American industrialist who brought his engineering skills to France. The company was established in the late 19th century, initially focusing on military hardware and firearms. This heritage of precision engineering would later become a hallmark of Hotchkiss automobiles.
Entry into the Automotive World:
Hotchkiss entered the automotive industry with a clear vision of producing luxury cars that combined performance and elegance. Their vehicles were known for their advanced engineering and attention to detail. The company quickly gained a reputation for creating high-quality automobiles.
Innovation and Engineering Excellence:
Hotchkiss was not content with just producing luxury cars; they were driven by innovation. In the 1930s, they introduced the AM2, a groundbreaking model that featured an all-steel monocoque body, a rare innovation at the time. This made Hotchkiss cars both lighter and more robust.
Luxury and Performance:
The 1930s was an era where luxury cars were defined by their opulence and powerful engines, and Hotchkiss was no exception. Their vehicles were known for their comfortable interiors, high-quality materials, and a balance of performance and refinement. They often featured straight-six engines that provided both power and smoothness.
Racing Success:
Hotchkiss also had its moment in motorsport. They participated in various racing events, including the Monte Carlo Rally, and achieved notable successes. This racing pedigree added to the allure of the brand.
Challenges and Legacy:
The onset of World War II brought challenges to the luxury automobile industry. Hotchkiss, like many others, faced disruptions in production. After the war, the company struggled to regain its pre-war glory.
Hotchkiss may not be a household name today, but it left a mark on the history of European luxury cars. Its dedication to precision engineering, innovative design, and a commitment to performance and luxury made it a unique player in the competitive automotive landscape of the 1930s. While it may have faded into the annals of automotive history, it's a testament to an era where craftsmanship and elegance ruled the road.