Motors & Me: Albert Collier

What are you currently driving?

A 1929 DeSoto Tourer Model K. It has a six cylinder engine with 21.6 HP. DeSoto was a brand of the Chrysler Corporation, launched in 1928 and named after the Spanish explorer and governor of Cuba, Hernando DeSoto. He is credited with discovering the Mississippi in 1541.

Love at first sight, or just a means to get from A to B?

Given the age and rarity of the car, it is clearly no everyday car. I enjoy attending Beaulieu Auto Jumble in Hampshire, England every year and in 2007, when I saw the DeSoto for sale I bought it on the spot. Since, I have fitted it with new white-walled tyres and a period luggage trunk.

What under the bonnet?

Given its USA origin, under the hood it has a clean, six cylinder side valve engine with a displacement of 174.9 cubic inches, better known to us in Europe as 2866cc. It produces 21.6 HP – modest by today’s standards but great for 1929. The electrics all run on a 6V system.

What was your first car?

My first vintage car a Morris Series E 1939.

What else did you/do you own?

After the Morris, I had a 1938 Austin Ruby A, a 1927 Morris Cowley Tourer and a 1949 Ford Prefect, among others. Along with the DeSoto, at present I have a 1954 Riley RME in nice condition.

Dream drive in dream location?

Wicklow provides great country views, good secondary roads to enjoy the drive and proximity to Dublin, lessening the strain on the car and driver alike.

Passenger you’d most like on a long journey?

There is no greater a passenger than someone who shares in the interest and enjoyment I derive from driving my vintage car.

Passenger you’d least like?

The passenger for whom the only question is “Are we there yet, are we there yet…?”

What’s on your playlist?

Mostly the music of the ‘50s and 60’s catches my ear. I often find I don’t go very wrong when tuned into Sunshine FM.