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Last updated:
04 September, 2023
Austin Big Seven
At the launch of the Big Seven on 13 July 1937, at Longbridge, Lord Austin addressed members of the trade and press to introduce the new model. "Today is an auspicious one for the company in so much as we are introducing for the first time since 1922 another small car, the Big Seven. . . . . . . . I should like to emphasise that the Big Seven is an addition to the Austin family and does not in any way supersede the famous Baby. It is our opinion that the time is opportune to introduce a car which in size, running costs, accommodation and price comes between the Seven and the Ten." (R J Wyatt. The Austin Seven, the motor for the million. p163.)
The Big Seven 'Sixlite' Saloon was the first 4-door 'Seven' and named 'Sixlite' as there are three windows on each side. Full technical details can be found in 'The Austin Seven Source Book' by Brian Purves, pp 74-483.
The Big Seven 'Forlite' Saloon, which appeared in March 1938, reverted to 2-doors and named 'Forlite' as there are two windows on each side. Full technical details can be found in 'The Austin Seven Source Book' by Brian Purves, pp 483-486.
When introduced neither model was fitted with running boards. These became stamdard for both in July 1938.
Vehicle Identification Numbers
The 'Sixlite was given the factory intials 'CRV' and the 'Forlite' designated 'CRW'.
The engine number is prefixed '1A + five numerals'. It is on the o/s of the engine located on the top edge of the block 'touching' the head gasket immediately below the top water hose connection to the head..
The chassis number is on the chassis arm immediately below the starter motor on the o/s of the engine comparment.
A plate showing the car number is affixed to the side of the tool box on the n/s of the engine compartment.
Holden Motor Co. Australia introduced the Big Seven Tourer and the Big Seven Roadster later in 1938, both models using the Big Seven chassis and engine. Full technical details can be found in 'The Austin Seven Source Book' by Brian Purves, pp 494-496.
Throughout its life the Big Seven was modified; the list of Big Seven modifications 1937-1938 are listed by Purves at pp 496-498.
A total of 20,171 Big Sevens, of which approx 8,000 were 'Forlite' were built at Longbridge until production ceased in Feb/March 1939.
Big Sevens survive worldwide and the Big Seven Registrar (Aug 2023) knows of 461 Sixlites; 153 Forlites; 16 Specials with a Big Seven chassis; 3 Big Seven vans converted from cars. In Australia and New Zealand there are 25 Tourers, 5 Roadsters and 2 Utes (Pick-ups).
Specifications, Lubrication Chart and Wiring Diagrams for the CRV & CRW Big Seven.
Austin Big Seven Handbooks (Published by The Austin Motor Co.)
Road Tests undertaken by the Motoring Magazines of the time are:
Austins Introduce a Big Seven From The Light Car, July 16, 1937.
Austin Big Seven Saloon From The Motor August 3, 1937.
The Austin Big Seven From The Light Car, January 7, 1938.
The Austin Big Seven 2door (Forlite) From Practical Motorist, July 16, 1938.
The Austin Big Seven 2door (Forlite) From The Motor, August 2, 1938.
Technical Articles written by members of Cornwall Austin Seven Club are:
Austin Seven Rear Axle - Light or Heavy? by Doug Castle and Andrew Jarmin, October 2016
Austin Seven Rear Blind (Ruby and Big Seven) by Doug Castle, August 2015.
Big Seven Brakes by Trevor Sharp, Seven Focus in Mar 2004 p12-15.
Care for Your Leather Upholstery by Regi Jarmin, Seven Focus Feb 2007 pp24-25.
1st Gear Jumps Out by Doug Castle and Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus Oct 2009 pp21-23.
Optional Flashing Indicators - Legal
Requirements (UK)
by Doug Castle, Seven Focus in Mar 2004
pp21-23.
(Flashing indicators; Rear retro-reflectors and Rear
fog lamp)
Removing horn & indicator switch by Andrew Jarmin & Doug Castle.
Other articles may also be of value to anyone working on a Big Seven, see Technical Articles.
Articles from Motoring Magazines are:
Big Seven Brake Modification From: Practical Motorist and Motor Cyclist, July 1957
Transmission Judder From Practical Motorist and Motor Cyclist, November 1955.
Other articles may also be of value to anyone working on a Big Seven, see Technical Advice.
The Joys of owning a Big Seven - reminiscing by CA7C Members.
Austin Big Seven - over 75 years in the family.
Dad's Austin Big Seven still survives!