Identity of Pommie Woodie

[Ozstatman]

Know it's British, but just what I don't know!

[gwells]

"1948 Healey Woodie, only about 10 of these cars were built, based on the Healey Chassis and running gear as fitted to the Westland, Elliott, and the Silverstone, they were commissioned by Hector Dobbs, a Healey/ Riley agent from Southampton. Built by Dibbins of Southampton. This is believed to be the sole survivor. "

[Rusty_OToole]

In the early postwar period there was a loophole in British tax law that eliminated purchase tax on agricultural equipment. A farmer could buy an estate car (station wagon) tax free but would have to pay a tax to buy a sedan. This was not a small sum of money, purchase tax on cars was 33% later raised to 66% on more expensive models. Many estate cars were sold as a tax dodge. The Healey was an expensive car that paid the higher tax rate. This could account for the estate cars, it certainly inspired the Healey Silverstone, a cheaper model that squeaked in under the maximum tax rate.

Edited July 26, 2017 by Rusty_OToole (see edit history)

[Ozstatman]

Thanks guys!