Affordable Rare Brit: 1952 Armstrong Siddeley Hurricane

We’re no strangers to British classics at Barn Finds, but this 1952 Armstrong Siddeley Hurricane is something different. It is a relatively rare Drophead Coupe that runs and drives. The seller admits it requires restoration, but it is undoubtedly an affordable project candidate. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Terry for spotting the Hurricane listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Cookeville, Tennessee. The seller set their price for this classic at $6,995.

Armstrong Siddeley launched the Hurricane in 1946, with the final cars emerging from the factory in 1953. They are quite rare, reflected by the fact that this is the first example we have seen at Barn Finds. This 1952 example is a survivor requiring restoration. The seller is candid about its condition, although the lack of apparent rust could make it an ideal DIY project. The paint has a wide selection of chips and scratches, but nothing that is beyond the scope of enthusiasts with basic preparation and painting skills. One interesting feature is the three-position Drophead. This signifies that the soft-top can be fully raised, the front section can retract to provide front-seat occupants with open-air access, or the owner could drop the top entirely to create a four-seat Convertible. The top is serviceable, but it requires a new back window. The trim looks surprisingly good for a classic of this vintage, and the glass is clear.

Unfortunately, this Hurricane was as straight as an arrow until shortly before the seller listed it. Somebody reversed into the front fender, and the result is clearly visible. Thankfully, it isn’t bad and should be repairable. The seller doesn’t supply any engine bay images, but the news is pretty positive. Armstrong Siddeley initially released the Hurricane with a 1,991cc six-cylinder motor under the hood, but increased the capacity to 2,309cc in 1949. The motor sends 75hp and 108 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. However, the company also offered an optional four-speed pre-selector for those seeking a more effortless driving experience. The seller states that the Hurricane runs and drives, as confirmed by the embedded video in their listing. The motor sounds crisp and clean, with no smoke or odd noises. They recently serviced the brakes, and it appears that this beauty is roadworthy. Therefore, the buyer can enjoy this beauty during the remaining summer months.

The Hurricane’s interior is a mixed bag. It is begging for a deep clean, but the upholstered surfaces appear free from rips and other physical damage. Therefore, it may require more time than money to whip that aspect of the interior into shape. The same can’t be said for the timber dash, which exhibits marked deterioration. It isn’t beyond salvation, and a few days spent in a workshop sanding and varnishing would make an enormous difference. Once again, this is another aspect of the Hurricane begging for a DIY approach.

Armstrong Siddeley is another marque that disappeared from the automotive landscape decades ago. It produced its last passenger car in 1960, although it remained involved in the aircraft industry as part of the Rolls-Royce empire until 1972. This 1952 Hurricane is a wonderful classic, emerging at a time when the brand was performing at its peak. It is undeniably affordable and, as a project candidate, stands apart from other British Convertibles of the era. Therefore, if you’ve long wanted to own a car of this type but march to the beat of a different drummer, this Hurricane could be the ideal choice.