It’s not every day you come across a car that seems to blur the line between museum artefact and functional vintage treasure. This 1926 Sandford 3-Wheeler, currently for sale on eBay here for $5,300 with the reserve not met and 3 days to go, is a remarkable piece of history with an equally fascinating backstory. Located in Glendale, California, this car started as a display piece, hanging from the ceiling of the now-defunct Imperial Casino in Las Vegas. When the casino closed, the vehicle was auctioned off in 1999 at Atlanta’s Red Baron Auction, and it’s been meticulously cared for and restored ever since.
The Sandford 3-Wheeler was created by Stewart Sandford, who was selling the popular Morgan 3-wheeler in France. Manufactured in Paris between 1923 and 1939, these three-wheeled cars were built in relatively small numbers, with estimates suggesting fewer than 1,000 were produced in total. Sandford used a mix of innovative techniques, often fitting them with V-twin engines sourced from companies like JAP or Ruby, giving them the lively performance of a motorcycle with the added stability of a car. This example finished in a clean, timeless white, is the product of a meticulous five-year restoration by KTR in Ayer, Massachusetts, completed between 2005 and 2010. Receipts totalling over $70,000 testify to the effort poured into preserving every detail of this rarity. With fewer than 2,500 miles since restoration, the car remains in impeccable shape and ready to turn heads wherever it goes.
Mechanically, the Sandford 3-Wheeler exemplifies the ingenuity of early 20th-century engineering. Its lightweight body and motorcycle-like performance were hallmarks of its design, offering a thrilling driving experience that was decades ahead of its time. While no specifics about the engine are provided in the listing, these cars often featured air-cooled V-twin engines, perfect for zipping through narrow streets or scenic backroads. Inside, simplicity reigns supreme, with a spartan cockpit that reflects its utilitarian roots. It’s a car built for pure, unfiltered fun, without the distractions of modern conveniences.
This is not the first time this car has been on BarnFinds though – we featured this car here back in 2017 with almost the exact same photos. This Sandford’s journey from casino display to collector’s dream adds another layer of intrigue to its story. While the seller notes that the car comes with a clear title, they also clarify that it’s not titled as a standard vehicle, which may require some research for registration purposes. Still, the rare combination of exceptional restoration and unique provenance makes this Sandford a standout in any collection. Could this be the perfect mix of history, charm, and road-going delight for your garage?
“Located in Glendale, California”. I perked up on seeing that having been born and raised there and still living not 10 miles away. But eBay says Massachusetts, and a photo with snow on the ground suggests that, where ever it is, it’s not Glendale. So, what am I missing? Wonderful machine, no mater where it is.
The lust is strong with this one- 3 thumbs up!
I like what I see although it’s kind of disappointing to look at the front and NOT see a V-Twin engine out there in front of God and everybody. A Morgan is strange with a V-Twin. This one is strange with the V-Twin hidden. Oh well, it takes all kinds…
I presumed that with the front radiator the engine was water cooled or it had water cooled heads.
Ah man, I *love* these old-skool tadpole designs. Morgan Three-Wheeler, JZR Trike, Pembleton Grasshopper – they all do it for me. Wasn’t aware of this French variation on the theme. Thanks!
Us old guys can remember, from the ’70s, the Sanford Anson . . . you could see it weekly on TV!
70k into it and under 7k offer so far. I wonder what the reserve is looking like.
What does this statement mean? “Please note title clear no title for this vehicle.”
These are quite demanding to drive if it’s like the Morgan replica I have, mine wanders back and forth a bit. It also attracts a lot of attention, kind of scary to look beside me and see someone driving and taking pictures of me. And it does have an air cooled engine 949 cc Moto Guzzi, with an automatic tranny, it can be yours.
I just bid on it. I tried to contact the seller through eBay to figure out the title no title issue but the message will not go through. I would love to know the reserve number too but that doesn’t seem to be happening either.
Just so everyone knows the seller of this vehicle never intended to sell it. This was a test of the market to see if 70k was wasted. It definitely was. I was the winning bidder at under 8k. The seller will not put a reserve number or buy it now after briefly communication. Be aware if it ever comes up for sale again. Don’t waste your time.