During the 1930s, Singer ran an active race program, and it yearned to capitalize on the halo of its successes, not to mention cover the cost of frequent forays to tracks around the world. A sporty road car might augment the income accounts, and so in 1939, it introduced the Singer Nine Roadster, a four-seat touring car derived from the Bantam. However, the company’s marketing approach was necessarily circumspect, since three Singers had crashed on a single corner at the 1935 RAC Tourists Trophy, and in 1936, on the same circuit, a Riley driven by Jack Chambers lost control and killed eight spectators. The Nine’s advertisement consequently referred only obliquely to “inspiration from the LeMans model”. While “inspiration” may have been at work, it was not enough to ignite sales: the Nine had inherited the Bantam’s three-speed gearbox, limiting the performance of the 1074 cc motor. After WWII, the car was redesigned for improved handling and rear seat comfort – and given a four-speed ‘box. In 1953, the Nine was finally graced with Singer’s 1506 cc motor, with a slightly reduced stroke to equal 1497 cc’s, qualifying it to race in the 1500 cc class. This evolution – called the SM1500 – was rewarded, as several US celebrities were seen driving Singers, including Sammy Davis Jr and Marilyn Monroe. Here on craigslist is a 1953 Singer SM1500 4AD Roadster, with an asking price of $15,000 (firm). The car is located in Palo Alto, California. Barn Finder Matt R. submitted this tip – thanks, Matt!

The Singer was constructed of aluminum panels around an ash frame, with steel fenders. Relative to its earlier brethren, the 4AD had the largest engine bay, a shorter grille, and in the rear, signal lights mounted on stalks. Independent front suspension and hydraulic front brakes modernized the car substantially, though the rear brakes remained mechanical. The 1497 cc in-line four made about 48 hp when fitted with a single carburetor, but a rare version – the 4ADT – was fitted with two carbs and made 52 hp. No photo of the engine bay is provided, but the car is said to be in running condition.

Left-hand drive marks this as one of the few Singers made for export. Just over 2200 of these made it to our shores. While billed as a sporting car, the lack of a tachometer is slightly disappointing. This steering wheel needs repair, but the dash is in good condition. No word on the working condition of the gauges or electricals.

The seat covers appear to be wrinkled, the paint is oxidized, and while there’s a convertible top boot, we don’t know the condition of the top and its frame. The car should have side curtains. Our seller says his car is “in original condition” but I am questioning whether silver was ever an original color. All in all, I think some negotiation will be required before this potentially fun car can find its new garage.