The Albany was an English automobile, manufactured by the Albany Motor Carriage Company in Christchurch, Dorset from 1971 - 1997.[1] The company was run by two brothers, Bryan and David Shepherd.
The car was designed as a veteran car, in the Edwardian style, but is not a replica of any particular marque although with some resemblance to a 1908 Buick. Early models used the engine and suspension from the Morris Minor in a specially built tubular steel chassis. The engine was governed to allow a maximum speed of 40 mph.[1] The car was hand built and quite expensive at £1987 before a long list of extras was added.[2] Purchasers requiring a hood or a screen found themselves invited to pay an extra £70 or £50 for these luxuries.[3]
From 1974 a Triumph Spitfire 1300cc engine was used and a longer wheelbase five seat option came in 1976.
Albany also made a replica 1910 AEC open air bus, based on a Ford D Series lorry chassis, that now provides very brief quasi-vintage bus rides at the Beaulieu motor museum in Hampshire. It appeared in the 1970s remake of the film 'The 39 Steps' starring Robert Powell.
In 1973 about a car every two weeks was being produced [2] and exports to the United States started. However, after about 12 cars were shipped the importing company failed. The price in 1974, now with a 1500cc Triumph engine had risen to £2487. By 1977 110 cars had been built.[2]
As of 1992, the open-top Albany, featuring a 1500cc Triumph Spitfire engine, was being built for export only.
The company closed in 1997.